Tian Shu Gorge

Tian Shu Gorge

Tian Shu Gorge is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction.

Tian Shu Gorge is located 5 kilometers east of Mengshan County. It gets its name from the giant “Tian” (Heaven) character at the valley entrance and the “Tian Shu Mysterious Stone” on the clear pool inside the gorge. The winding gorge stretches through a series of mountains including Luoluo Peak, Guanyin Mountain, Gulan Stockade, and Qihao Ridge, spanning over 10 kilometers in total. Two crystal-clear streams, the Hulu River and the Sancha River, meander along the valley. Its enchanting scenery is famous across eastern Guangxi, while its mysterious legends have been passed down through the ages.

Yumeng Clear Pool is the central scenic area of the gorge. Shaped like an “S,” the pool stretches about 100 meters in length. Its shores are dotted with oddly shaped rocks—some resembling toads, others horse tails. The deepest part of the pool reaches up to three zhang (approximately 10 meters), with crystal-clear water that allows you to see the bottom and count the fish. Being in the pool feels like stepping into a dream, which is why people also call the gorge Yumeng Valley.

In the middle of the clear pool, a huge rock juts out into the water. On its surface are hundreds of hoof prints, both large and small, said to be the footprints left by celestial horses that descended from heaven, captivated by the earthly paradise. A local folk song goes: “The big horse chases the little horse, following them down into the clear pool; whoever sees them will witness silver nurturing soldiers to conquer the world.”

Leaving the clear pool and crossing two streams, you’ll come upon a rocky mountain that resembles a massive iron pillar with a bronze bell hanging from it. This spot is called Tongzhong Mountain. Following the “Fairy Toad Slope” and climbing the hundred-step celestial ladder, even under the blazing summer sun, you’ll find shade from the trees, hanging vines, tender leaves brushing your shoulders, and petals brushing your face, creating a refreshing and serene green atmosphere.

As you move forward, the scenery changes with every step. Scenic spots such as Dengxian Pool, Saweng Pond, Xiangzhu Peak, and the Boy Worshipping Guanyin appear one after another. When you pass through Longmen Gorge, you’ll suddenly see a three-tiered waterfall cascading gracefully, breaking into thousands of jade shards and myriad radiant flowers upon the rocks, before gathering into Longtan (Dragon Pool) below.