Zijingshan Scenic Area

Zijingshan Scenic Area

Zijingshan is located at the southern foot of the Lüliang Mountain Range, with an elevation of 1,530 meters. It stretches from Huangyashan at Shikou in the north, where the mountain peaks stand tall like a dragon’s head, through Yulinshan in the middle where Yiquan Temple is built. The rolling mountains twist and turn for dozens of miles, resembling the coiled body of a dragon. It gradually descends toward Shangtianshan, resembling the swaying tail of a dragon, before connecting to Wulushan. The entire mountain range vividly resembles a giant dragon curled up, majestic in presence.

Zijingshan boasts abundant resources and enchanting scenery, with lush grass, dense forests, birdsong, floral fragrances, and vibrant colors. In spring, it turns emerald green; in summer, it blooms with a riot of flowers; in autumn, red leaves blaze like fire; and in winter, it’s draped in silvery white. Each season offers its own charm. The area produces over 30 types of medicinal herbs such as Polyporus umbellatus, Codonopsis pilosula, honeysuckle, and ginseng. There are also wild delicacies like natural wood ear mushrooms, mushrooms, morels, and fiddlehead ferns, all rich in nutrients. Mountain grapes, cherries, sea buckthorn, and hawthorn offer sweet, wild flavors. In spring, wild peaches and apricots bloom across the hills, filling the air with their fragrance and immersing visitors in a "sea of flowers." Dense forests are home to wildlife, offering picturesque and breathtaking views that satisfy the desire to reconnect with nature and experience its vitality. The area is home to over 20 species of nationally protected animals including leopards, Lady Amherst's pheasants, and wild boars, earning it the title of a natural "forest park."

Zijingshan features dense forests and numerous natural scenic spots. The undulating, layered peaks are crisscrossed like a crouching tiger or coiling dragon. Xiangbishan Mountain rises halfway up the slope. Everywhere you look, there are strange peaks, bizarre rocks, steep cliffs, and exquisite caves. “Yangfeng Cave” and “Beifeng Cave,” each located atop separate peaks, feature “Wind God” stone statues that face each other from afar, standing in imposing opposition. They are said to predict wind patterns and forecast rain, steeped in legendary tales. The mysterious Zhusha Cave and the widespread deposits of gold, silver, copper, and iron ores across the mountains add to the mystique. Every peak and cave has its own captivating legend, making it feel like stepping into a world of “mythical stories.” Legend has it that Pu Yizi (Pu Chou), the teacher of Emperor Yao, once lived in seclusion here, where he invented the game of Go. Emperor Yao frequently visited to seek his wisdom and even sent his son Danzhu to learn the game, leaving behind a five-thousand-year-old historical tale.

Zijingshan is rich in cultural heritage:

Shangtianshan and Xiatiandian: The summit of Zijingshan is commonly known as Shangtianshan. It’s said that on clear days, one can gaze far into the distance to see the Yellow River and Fen River, with sea of clouds and sunrise views surpassing those of Mount Tai. At the mountain’s base, in the village of Anzheng, there is a temple called Xiatiandian, symbolizing the return from the heavens, embodying the unity of heaven and humanity.

Yiquan Temple and Mapao Spring: Commonly known as Nuanshuwa Temple, Yiquan Temple is embraced by mountains on three sides, with the peaks forming a curved chair shape and the temple nestled within. The slopes are shaded by pine and cypress trees, and when viewed from afar, the mountain range resembles the form of a Buddha (Maitreya). Yiquan Temple is like a radiant jewel embedded in the bosom of the Buddha. Standing before the temple and looking around, it also appears to be situated in the belly of a soaring phoenix. Built in a serene location, Yiquan Temple is honored as a “sacred site.” Its name originates from the gentle stream that flows around the temple. Legend has it that the ancient spring was a hot spring, divided into upper and lower temples. The waters of Yiquan flow directly down from the cliff behind the upper temple, passing through the temple grounds, where stone carvings of Buddha are still clearly visible. Mapao Spring is located at the foot of the mountain. Legend says that during the journey when Meng Liang stole a horse, the horse, thirsty and desperate, struck the ground with its hooves, causing a spring to emerge. The water is cool, crystal clear, and rich in minerals.

Linyin Temple and Little Pine King: As the name suggests, Linyin Temple is a temple situated deep within a dense forest. Its exact founding year is unknown, but it has maintained a modest scale over generations, with monks residing there throughout the years, teaching local villagers and protecting the forest from fires. The Little Pine King is the symbol of the temple—a towering tree several meters high, several meters in girth, straight as a pole, and shady as an umbrella. Lush and vibrant, it stands out among the trees. Visitors to the temple consider it a privilege to behold the magnificence of the Pine King.

Piluta and Dragon Tail Temple: Originally named “Pilu Jinshan Pagoda,” Piluta stands opposite Dragon Tail Temple. Surrounded by lush pine and cypress trees, the octagonal pagoda stands 10 meters tall. Built in July of the 20th year of the Ming Dynasty’s Jiajing reign, it remains well-preserved despite centuries of history.

Other attractions include RunGuo Hou Temple, Laoye Ding, Honey Cliff, and Zhusha Cave, allowing visitors to appreciate the boundless beauty of nature, admire the wisdom of ancient people, and ponder the many unresolved mysteries that spark the imagination. Everywhere you go, you can enjoy blooming flowers, observe birds, taste fruits, and drink from springs. The pure, sweet, and refreshing spring water invigorates the spirit and replenishes energy.

Phone: 0357-7321410

Fax: 0357-7321411

Address: Xixian County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province