Misty Mountain Tigers and Leopards

Misty Mountain Tigers and Leopards

Misty Mountain Tigers and Leopards

Misty Mountain is located opposite the mouth of Zhugou Valley and on the southern bank of the Haomen River. This mountain features a spectacular landscape, adorned with greenery in all seasons, with mist hovering around jagged rocks that appear hazy from afar. Lush trees cover the slopes in graceful arrangement, while bizarre rocks loom majestically. It is one of the ancient Eight Scenic Spots of Menyuan. A poem celebrates this beautiful view: “Mist darkens the eastern azure sky, crimson cliffs veiled in haze, a long roar sends a gust through the valley. Even a mere glimpse reveals not the whole—hidden within lies more. All forces blaze fiercely, each resembling the other. Wen’s brush captures the ever-changing misty hues; wait to see the mountain emerge in plain sight, and do not vie for supremacy.” Legend has it that in ancient times, tigers and leopards roamed here in groups, playing amidst Misty Mountain without harming people or livestock, and were thus revered as guardian deities of the mountain. Although tigers and leopards are no longer seen today, the rugged cliffs of Misty Mountain resemble tigers and leopards in form, and the mountain winds that rush out of the valley sound like the roars of beasts, creating an illusion. For this reason, it is regarded as a sacred mountain by local residents and honored as one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Menyuan — Misty Mountain Tigers and Leopards.

After traversing a 7-kilometer shaded forest canyon path that clings to your clothes, you’ll arrive at Zhigou Village, home to Tibetans who ride fine horses and herd white yaks. Keeping them company is Zhugou Temple, where they place their faith. Here, the canyon forks: one branch extends northwest, the other northeast. Both ultimately lead to the great snowy mountains — the source of life.

On the sunny slope terrace at the mouth of the northwest branch lies Zhugou Temple, where the evening bell and morning drum resonate. Midway through the valley, standing east-west, is the “silver-crowned” sacred mountain, Zhua’ka. Inside the valley, ravines spread like the lines of a palm, hiding hidden wonders such as Tibetan prayer flags (Obo) and meditation caves.