Qingyuan Little Danxia. Horse Head Rock

Qingyuan Little Danxia. Horse Head Rock

Qingyuan Horse Head Rock is located in Shijiao Town, Qingyuan City, Guangdong Province. The area features Danxia landform with beautiful scenery. It is called Horse Head Rock because its shape resembles the "hidden horse genitalia" as described in Buddhist terms. The surroundings of Horse Head Rock boast vast Danxia landforms. Covering a total area of 6.51 square kilometers, the area features brightly colored red cliffs, majestic and graceful solitary peaks and narrow ridges, as well as uniquely shaped and stunningly beautiful rocks that leave visitors in awe.

Shijiao Horse Head Rock: Located in Shijiao Town, Qingyuan City, Guangdong Province, it is called Horse Head Rock because its shape resembles the "hidden horse genitalia" as described in Buddhist terms. The area around Horse Head Rock features Danxia landform with beautiful scenery. During the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty, Wujieluewei (a military officer rank) Zhong Shengliang built an enormous residence here known as "Nine Halls and Eighteen Wells," which was praised as the Qingyuan Hanlin Academy. For over 200 years, his descendants have lived a prosperous life as wealthy landlords.

This 6.51-square-kilometer Danxia landform remains hidden in plain sight, especially with one peak that strikingly resembles the Sphinx of Egypt. According to experts, this Jurassic and Cretaceous exposed strata Danxia landform showcases brightly colored red cliffs, towering solitary peaks and narrow ridges, uniquely shaped and spectacular rocks, massive rock galleries and caves, as well as steep valleys and gorges—all set against summer waterfalls and streams, offering high tourism and aesthetic value. Currently, local villagers have divided these scenic spots into six areas: Liufang Reservoir Scenic Area, Horse Head Rock Scenic Area, and Shen Shi Scenic Area. Among the three major scenic areas, the Horse Head Rock Scenic Area is further divided into six attractions: Human Head Rock, Princess Rock, Horse Head Rock, Sun-drying Cloth Rock, Nine Halls and Eighteen Wells, and Swallow Rock. Among them, Horse Head Rock is the highest peak of the Danxia landform, standing majestically. Viewed from the Beijiang embankment near Qibeiling, it resembles a crouching steed. In addition to its bold, steep, unique, and beautiful red cliffs, the scenic area also offers lush greenery and flowing streams, creating breathtaking views of green mountains, clear waters, and red rocks—an enchanting scene that captivates and lingers in the heart.