Nine-Bend Path

Nine-Bend Path

Nine-Bend Path: This mountain trail leads to Hongfu Temple. It was first established as a path in the 27th year of the Kangxi reign (1688). In the 54th year of the Qianlong reign (1789), Chen Dawen, the governor-general and surveillance commissioner of Guizhou, advocated for its renovation. In the 5th year of the Xianfeng reign (1855), the abbot Wuzheng raised funds to restore it. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the government allocated funds to widen and reinforce it. The winding path is built along the mountain terrain and cliffs, consisting of 383 stone steps. With a turn every dozen steps and a bend every few dozen steps, it passes through nine perilous zigzags shaped like the Chinese character “之” (meaning “to go”) before finally reaching the main gate of Hongfu Temple—hence the name “Nine-Bend.” The shaded path winds through serene surroundings, often wreathed in mist. Natural wonders along the way include the Ancient Buddha Cave, the Conch-Blowing Wall, the Echoing Stone Cave, the Willow Well, the Bowl-Washing Pool, and the Emerald Bamboo Dragon Pool. There are also cliff inscriptions from various dynasties, such as “First Mountain,” “Scenic Splendor of Qianling,” “Do More Good Deeds, Accumulate More Merit,” and a carved tiger, as well as cultural landmarks like the Pavilion, the Lingguan Pavilion, and the One-Spring Pavilion. Along the trail, you may even encounter macaques begging for food, adding to the charm. Visitors are sure to find the experience delightful.

Qianling Mountain Park

Hongfu Temple

Monument to Revolutionary Martyrs of the Liberation of Guizhou

Qianling Lake

Sanlingwan Macaque Viewing Garden

Seven Star Pools

Qilin Cave

Macaque Garden