Denggan Mountain (Three Piercing Stones)

　　Denggan Mountain is located 4 kilometers from the western shore of Tianchi Lake, rising abruptly from the surrounding mountains and valleys. The main peak stands at an altitude of 2718 meters, and atop it are three huge stone pillars resembling halberds, thrusting straight into the sky—hence also known as the “Three Piercing Stones.” According to legend, they were transformed from the Empress of Heaven’s embroidered shoes used to subdue demons. This is an excellent spot to watch the sunset over Tianchi Lake and admire the ancient glacial landforms.

　　Mythical Legend:

　　It is said that when the Empress of Heaven left the Jade Pool, she saw jagged peaks all around Tianchi Lake, the land tilted, the heavens skewed, and the lake water churning with black waves—an eerie sight. It turned out that a black fish demon was causing trouble. The Empress removed one of her cloud-embroidered shoes and threw it into the lake, capturing the black fish demon. Then, she erected a huge rock on the mountain west of Tianchi Lake, split it into three with her hairpin, forming a tripod-like structure to prop up the western sky, bringing peace to the world. Later, a Taoist placed a long pole among the three boulders and hung a red lantern on it, called the “Eternal Light.” The mountain thus became known as Denggan Mountain, and the three boulders were called the “Three Piercing Stones.”