Yimin Park

Yimin Park

Yimin Park in Xiyang County was designed by Tianjin University, with an investment of over 26 million yuan from the county government, covering several hectares. Upon completion, it attracted throngs of visitors. Ordinary people stroll through it, enjoying themselves immensely. Moved by this scene, I composed an ode.

To the east of Leping, south of the Songxi River, nestled behind Dongguan and adjacent to the remaining ridges of the Taihang Mountains, embraced by two flowing streams and blessed with the auspicious aura of Zhan County①. Backed by peaks and embraced by greenery, red pillars and yellow tiles stand shoulder to shoulder with the hills; soaring roof ridges rival the height of surrounding buildings. Majestically standing, it reveals its grand visage, proudly exuding an aura of fortune.

Stepping into the park, a surge of auspicious energy greets you. The view is expansive, the heart as vast as the sea. Steep cliffs rise in dramatic formations; cascading waterfalls and flowing springs compete for attention. Ornate pavilions with upturned eaves cluster like stars around the moon, gazing affectionately at one another. Painted boats and long corridors stand side by side, gently extending their arms to embrace the emerald pool. When the wind stirs, the water ripples softly, cradling delicate waves; as flowers bloom and fragrance wafts, trembling reflections seem tipsy with delight. In the center of the pool, carp leap joyfully, as if seeking happiness in the human world; spinning stone spheres glide effortlessly, bathed in crystal-clear waters. Meandering corridors twist along the pool leading to secluded spots, while wisps of mist drift like auspicious clouds. You can wander beneath the cliffs, dipping your hands into the playful waves, or climb the stairs upward to discover hidden realms.

To the right of the cliffs, tiered stone steps lead upward, while flower beds are arranged in floral patterns. Towering pines stand firm, their gnarled branches strong and masculine, facing the wind with pride. The murmuring spring and thunderous cascade inspire visitors to ascend higher, to gaze into the distance and let their spirits roam.

With your back to the grand hall, look into the distance: the mountains meet the blue sky, the clouds and heavens merge as one; a black silk ribbon—likely a mountain ridge—seems to descend from above, echoing like a horn; colorful shuttles dart back and forth, resonating through the valleys; the county’s buildings stand in neat rows, while two bridges stretch across, linking the southeast. Together with Dazhai and Liuzhuang, they form a scene like a rainbow touching the earth.

Lowering your gaze slightly, the overall layout of the park’s front comes into full view: carved railings follow the terrain with balanced design. Flower beds, pots, and platforms are arranged innovatively, the gardeners’ skillful hands weaving numerous patterns into Yimin Park’s landscape; green grass, trees, and hedges line up in orderly rows, craftsmen meticulously paving the paths and ground smooth as a mirror. Chest-high flower pots burst with red, yellow, pink, and green blooms, presenting a feast of a hundred flowers; octagonal pavilions glow with vermillion faces, smiling broadly as they joyfully welcome visitors.

Descending the steps, a massive rock stands abruptly by the path, bearing the bold red characters “Hundred Flowers Garden.” Following the small path beside the cliff, glancing left and right: various flowers sway and bloom vibrantly, maple leaves rustle in the wind, refreshing and invigorating; walking along the colorful stone-paved path, looking down: the scenery before you is overwhelming, soft layers of flower petals in seven colors unfurling at the bottom of the ditch. Peach blossoms blaze like rosy clouds, peonies cluster protectively along the paths; bursting into bloom, they create a delightful contrast. Locust trees lean against the cliffs, stretching out branches and leaves, skillfully forming a pavilion, with pink flowers strung together like a grapevine corridor, their fragrance wafting enticingly...

Walking down the path, a pavilion waits quietly. Around the pavilion, beige and yellow flowers densely fringe the area within a meter or so, like walls or barriers; pink roses blush shyly, dew-kissed, each blossom like a piece of pink silk. In the center, tightly closed orchids are about to bloom, elegant and noble; to the left, bright yellow flowers flutter as if ready to take flight, refreshing the spirit... To the right of the pavilion, young apricot trees stand in evenly spaced rows, their blossoms thick and dense, hiding stems and leaves; once the blossoms fade, lush leaves emerge, and fruits appear like tiny green pearls.