Shuiyukou Scenic Area

Shuiyukou Scenic Area

Shuiyukou Scenic Area is located within the southern Zhongtiao Mountain range in Yongji City, Shanxi Province. Originally known as Shuigu (Water Valley), it boasts a history of over a thousand years. The area features towering mountains, numerous streams and springs, unique natural vegetation, and vast primeval forests of cypress that thrive lushly—an uncommon sight in the Zhongtiao Mountain region. The whole scenic zone is densely wooded with blooming mountain flowers. The main peak, "Jiuzhou Gedas" (Nine-Continent Knoll), stands at an elevation of 1,778.3 meters, rising abruptly from the surrounding mountains. With steep slopes and a relatively flat summit, on misty days its nine peaks appear to float above the sea of clouds, creating a surreal and dreamlike scene. Since ancient times, it has been regarded as a symbol of “Peace Across the Nine Continents.” Historical records indicate that the area contains ruins such as the Temple to Guan Yu, the Temple to the Goddess (Nüying), the Peony Temple, the Cypress God Temple, the Incense Flower Temple, the Jade Emperor Temple, the Guanyin Temple, the Medicine King Temple, the Dragon King Temple, monastic quarters, the Marshalling Platform of Luo Cheng from the Tang Dynasty, the Martial Arts Training Hall of Huyanzan, the ancient fortress of Meng Family Garden from the Qing Dynasty, and the summer villa of Minister Meng Shifang.

The scenic area is characterized by two waterfalls, three streams, and one hundred and eight pools, along with attractions such as the Thousand-Year-Old Divine Turtle, the Bathing Pools of Ehuang and Nüying, the Statue of Guan Yu, the Guan Yu Sword-Testing Platform, Northern Song Dynasty cliff carvings, the Sky Ladder, and the One-Line Sky crevice. These elements combine with majestic peaks, peculiar rocks, emerald pools, and cascading waterfalls to form a mystical, fantastical, and serene natural landscape, earning it the reputation of being a “Dreamy Water Town” and a “Heavenly Paradise on Earth.” It is a comprehensive natural scenic resort integrating sightseeing, leisure, dining, and entertainment.

Source: Compilation Committee of Local Chronicles of Yuncheng City