Linzhongbao Mushroom Garden

Linzhongbao Mushroom Garden

Siren Park is located in the center of Sanjiang Market Town, situated atop Snake Mountain. Ascending from the foot of the mountain and passing through the park’s entrance archway, you’ll see on the left side of the rocky slope an ancient banyan tree with twisted roots standing tall, reaching over 10 meters in height. Its sturdy trunk, thick enough to be encircled by several people, supports gnarled branches covered with dense, shady green foliage. According to a small stone tablet nearby, Zhao Sirén, an ancestor of the Ming Dynasty from Sanjiang, once studied under the great Confucian scholar Chen Baisha. One day, while traveling here together with his teacher, Chen Baisha was so impressed by the beautiful scenery that he personally planted this banyan tree. Climbing up to the first platform, you’ll find on the right a double-decked hexagonal pavilion called "Yantang Pavilion." Built in 1934, it was funded by descendants of the Zhao Anhuai Hall of Hengmei Fang. The pink terrazzo railing is tastefully understated, and on the front façade, a couplet inscribed on both sides of the ancient pillars reads: “Phoenixes gather on phoenix trees, singing the praises of a prosperous era; the courtyard blooms with daylilies, celebrating a thriving reign.” In the center, there is an octagonal splash pool with an artificial hill built inside. The hill features rugged rocks, overlapping peaks, and winding paths leading to hidden nooks. At the turn of a craggy path, a stone gate opens up to a serene area. At the top of the hill stands a porcelain sculpture of a large roc bird with wings spread, ready to take flight, evoking a feeling of lofty ambition. Above the pool is a large sculpture of a smiling Buddha, who sits cross-legged with an exposed, round belly, radiating warmth and joy. Further ahead, you’ll see a two-story building standing majestically amidst the greenery — the “Siren Memorial Hall.” Though its architectural style is Western-inspired, its essence is rich in ethnic character. The exterior is adorned with exquisite floral patterns, and on each floor, powerful clerical or regular script couplets are engraved on either side of the main entrance, adding a refined cultural touch to the structure. On the inner wall of the upper level, a black marble plaque prominently displays a portrait of Siren, depicted sitting cross-legged, holding a scroll and deep in thought. His solemn and dignified expression vividly captures his lofty aspirations and dedication to diligent study. To the right of the portrait, an inscription pays tribute to the virtues of their ancestors and celebrates the beautiful landscape and profound cultural heritage of Sanjiang. On the stone tablet next to the portrait are engraved the names of local benefactors who donated to build the memorial pavilion. On both sides of the entrance to the memorial hall, there are circular stone gates. The surrounding walls are carved with scenes of small bridges over flowing streams, distant misty mountains and trees, and scholars carrying lutes to visit friends — accompanied by pastoral poems that offer an elegant artistic experience. Turning left through the mountain gate, you’ll find a children’s playground equipped with slides, seesaws, and more. Several lively children, accompanied by adults, are playing with great enthusiasm, thoroughly enjoying themselves. Continuing upwards along the slightly elevated path past the memorial hall and Siren Pavilion, the scenery changes almost every few steps. Highlights include the “Wen Pavilion,” a double-decked structure resembling a pagoda with a pen-like spire, built during the Jiaqing era of the Qing Dynasty; as well as newer attractions constructed in recent years such as the emerald-green “Guanyin Sitting on Lotus” pool, the “Shiting” Pavilion, the “Yinhu Yuantiao” (Silver Lake Overlook), and the “Liufang Pavilion.” These newly built pavilions feature either upturned tiled roofs or open structures entwined with vines; some have four corners, others six. Despite their varied forms, all are exquisitely elegant and poetic. Along the stone-paved mountain paths, lush woods, swaying green bamboo, fragrant wildflowers, and birdsong create a refreshing and delightful atmosphere. At the top of the hill, there is also a brand-new “Buyue Pavilion,” a two-story hexagonal structure topped with yellow glazed tiles. Stepping into the pavilion and leaning on the railing, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the picturesque landscape, charming waters, and the renewed face of the market town.