Baima Lake

　　The misty expanse of the Baima Reservoir, also known as Baima Lake, resembles an emerald-green agate, shimmering brilliantly as it nestles amid the lush, towering mountains at the border between Lianyuan City and Xinshao County. Though it may not rival the vastness of Taihu Lake or match the "graceful beauty in all weathers" of West Lake, for decades it has nourished the green hills on both banks and sustained the people living around it. To the locals, it is the most beautiful place of all, cherished with unwavering devotion.

　　Legend has it that long ago, during the summer and autumn seasons, there was no rain for months. The Lian River dried up, the fields cracked, crops withered, and water became more precious than oil. One day, just before dawn, a farmer went to dig sand and filter water from the Lian River. In the dim light, he saw a white horse drinking from the river not far away. Curious, the farmer approached the horse, but before he could get close, the horse neighed a few times, then galloped ashore and transformed into a horse-shaped mountain standing by the Lian River. At the spot where the white horse drank, a spring of fresh, sweet water gushed out. Overjoyed, the farmer told everyone he met and urged fellow villagers to come fetch water. Later, to pray to this white horse for disaster relief, good fortune, and protection against drought, a temple was built on the horse-shaped mountain and named “Baima Temple” (White Horse Temple), and the mountain itself was henceforth called “Baima Mountain.”

　　The hills rising from the reservoir look like small islands floating in the ocean. Covered in lush green grass, densely packed trees, bamboo groves, and vibrant foliage, they are dripping with freshness. Clusters and patches of wildflowers compete in beauty, releasing rich fragrances that refresh the soul. Birds chirp in the treetops and bushes—some melodious, some loud, some soft, some joyful—as if performing a splendid symphony together.

　　As the saying goes, “The verdant hills in Junshan Lake nestle like green snails in a crystal plate.” The lush green hills in Baima Reservoir are just like exquisite green snails nestled in a crystal dish.

　　Adjacent to the reservoir stands Mao'er Mountain, where a towering boulder rises proudly into the clouds. From afar, it resembles a giant mountain cat, crouching atop the peak with its head raised and back arched, ears perked and eyes fixed ahead, as if greedily eyeing fish in the water. It’s a highlight of the reservoir area. Even more captivating is the undulating, peak-stacked Longshan Mountain to the southeast of the reservoir, resembling a vivid dragon from mythology. Its majestic silhouette reflected in the reservoir looks like a slow-moving serpent. Among the peaks of Longshan is one that strikingly resembles a young maiden "holding a pipa half-concealed behind her face." Slender and graceful, she stands elegantly poised. Wisps of floating mist resemble the scarf draped over her, while the slopes covered in fir trees are like her beautiful long hair, gently swaying in the breeze.

　　Whenever the motorboats of the reservoir management office, loaded with tourists, cruise joyfully under the sunlight, the reflection of Longshan’s grandeur shimmers on the water, sparkling with the brilliance of the sun. Glistening light dances on the golden surface, dazzling to the eye, making visitors even more enchanted by the beautiful scenery. The mountain appears even more majestic and magnificent because of the reservoir, and the reservoir more charming and colorful due to the beautiful backdrop of Longshan. The interplay of water and mountain is so naturally harmonious, brimming with vitality and poetic charm, so intoxicating and captivating.

　　In the summer and autumn seasons, flocks of ducks sometimes dive underwater and sometimes float on the surface, flapping their soft wings like drifting clouds. Groups of barefoot children splash through the waves, playing gleefully as bursts of laughter drift with the wind. When night falls, the lights of the reservoir management office and local villagers’ homes begin to twinkle, like strings of pearls scattered across the tranquil reservoir, reflecting off the night sky and rippling waters. Here, all worries vanish, the soul feels purified, and the body and mind seem to merge with the serene, beautiful night scene. Visitors often remark after their trip, “This place has many beautiful, lush hills, deep and clear waters, no intense summer heat or harsh winter cold, and fresh air—it’s an ideal travel destination, a painting of paradise on earth.” With rapid and healthy economic development, it will continue to attract visitors with its unique charm.