Yangtang Tianchi

　　Located in Tianchi Township at the base of Tianwei Mountain, Yangtang Tianchi is a high-altitude lake. As one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Wen County, it is also ranked among China’s Four Great Heavenly Lakes. Shaped like a gourd with nine twists and eighteen turns, it spans an area of 20 square kilometers. With a surface elevation of 1,750 meters, a depth of 75 meters, and a water storage capacity of 3,200 cubic meters, it is home to the deep-water fish species "Schizothorax prenanti." Preliminary research suggests that the lake was formed by an earthquake that triggered a landslide, blocking the flow of water. Liu Lin, a professor at Sichuan University, noted in his annotations: The “Huayang Guo Zhi” (Records of the States South of Mount Hua) by Chang Qu of the Han Dynasty mentions a “Tianchi Ze” (Heavenly Lake Marsh), which was later recorded in the “Han Records” and the “Commentary on the Water Classic” from the Northern Wei Dynasty, where it was originally called “Tianwei Qiu.” Legend has it that during the chaos caused by An Lushan’s rebellion, the Tang Dynasty scholar-official and military governor Jian Leibao sought refuge by the lake and later built the Yangtang Temple in his honor. The emperor conferred upon him the title “Dragon King of the Vast Sea, Calming Waves, and Generous Marsh.” Over the dynasties, numerous literati have journeyed to Tianchi, composing poems in its praise, including timeless masterpieces. The famous Song Dynasty poet Yan Cangshu wrote: “Boundless and deep, it reflects brows and lashes; passersby are struck with awe and dare not gaze. Tell the world to open their eyes — who would have thought a heavenly lake lay hidden here?” The Qing Dynasty poet Xiao Ji wrote in “Tianchi’s Crystal Blue”: “Beyond the woods, a lake bathes in myriad valleys; empty words dissolve into layers of emerald shadows. Sunlight on clear shallows often stirs carp, while clouds over the deep pool seem to hide dragons. Wide waters ripple with waves, while secluded mountains teem with creeping vines. To know how the temple embodies divine charm, just look at the two ancient pines standing in the vastness.” Tianchi can be described as a radiant jewel embedded amid the vast mountain ranges of northwestern China, with misty waters and enchanting scenery. Wild ducks play on the lake, and fish are visible swimming beneath the surface. Despite its vast expanse of blue, not even a single dead leaf floats on the water. Boating on the lake offers a unique delight. The surrounding peaks are picturesque — features such as Beak Rock, Lion Peak, Fairy Rock, Moonflow Mountain, Horse Drinking Pool, and Fishing Valley each possess their own charm. The area is covered in dense forests that block out the sun, where rare birds and animals live in peaceful harmony. Ancient temples near the lake stand majestically amidst the foliage, enveloped in a mystical aura. Countless legends about Tianchi abound, bringing joy and serenity to the heart. Recognized as one of the best tourist destinations in Longnan, the area is now accessible via the Zhao-Tian Road, which “ascends through three hundred winding turns of lush greenery,” carrying visitors directly to the shores of Tianchi. In recent years, the number of domestic and international tourists has been increasing year by year. Western Development initiatives have brought new opportunities for the development of Tianchi’s tourism resources, attracting investment and exploration from various businesses. The reconstruction of the “Zhao-Tian Highway,” with an investment of over 10 million yuan, has already commenced. This highland jewel, Tianchi, having witnessed the passage of time, will embrace the new millennium with renewed grace and charm, attracting even more visitors from around the world.

　　Information source: Gansu Wen County Official Website