Zhanghu Scenic Area

　　Zhanghu Scenic Area is situated in the eastern mountainous region of Gukeng Township, bordered by Dajianshan Mountain to the south and surrounded by high peaks; to the north lies Qingshui Stream, with its crystal-clear waters flowing endlessly, offering breathtaking scenery. The area features 16 scenic spots scattered across the mountains at elevations between 300 and 800 meters, characterized by natural rocky cliffs and cascading streams and waterfalls.

　　The scenic area centers around Shiqiao Mountain Villa, and the 16 scenic spots refer to Shanhaiguan, Snake Palace, Millennium Sacred Tree, Long Bridge Exploration, Qingshui Valley, Immortals' Gathering Rock, Dijiu Waterfall, Changqing Waterfall, Lingquan Soaring Dragon, Sanchuan Quiet Stream, Immortals’ Bathing Pool, Tianchang Waterfall, Dragon-Phoenix Waterfall, Lianbao Stone, Baodao Pool, and Zhanghu Mountain.

　　Waterfalls are the most numerous attractions in Zhanghu, with four major ones: Dijiu, Changqing, Tianchang, and Dragon-Phoenix. Dijiu Waterfall stands 40 meters high with abundant water flow and a misty ambiance; Di’e Waterfall is located on the northern side of the valley entrance, also 40 meters high, but not suitable for close viewing; Tianchang Waterfall is 35 meters high, cascading through lush green mountains and valleys, cool and serene. The large pool beneath it is called the Immortals’ Bathing Pool, partially hidden within a rock cave, about 2 meters deep with crystal-clear water. The most spectacular is the Dragon-Phoenix Waterfall, which is 40 meters high, formed where the Fanzikou Stream makes a 90-degree turn, creating a massive waterfall.

　　Shanhaiguan is situated at the lowest saddle between Dajianshan and Zhanghu Mountains. It is said to have been the site of a Qing Dynasty checkpoint, offering views of both mountain and sea. The Snake Palace is located 1 kilometer south of Shanhaiguan, featuring a large cave with a diameter of 150 centimeters and a depth of over 10 meters. The cave has an eerie atmosphere, and only remnants of the Snake Palace remain. The Millennium Sacred Tree of Zhanghu Eggplant is located beside the old Caoling Highway from Shiqiao Mountain Villa to Qingshui Stream. With a tree age of over a thousand years, it stands 28 meters tall, lush and majestic. Qingshui Valley refers to a section of Qingshui Stream that makes a sharp 90-degree bend, where the riverbed is wide and scattered with uniquely shaped rocks. Lingquan Soaring Dragon is a cluster of moss-covered, oddly shaped rocks, named for their resemblance to a soaring dragon.

　　Aside from enjoying the mountains and waters, Zhanghu Village is rich in local specialties such as bamboo shoots, dried tofu, timber, fir wood, bitter tea, wood ear mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, and daylilies—all affordable and of high quality. Visitors can purchase some to take home and enjoy.

　　Transportation Guide: Take the Taisi Bus from Douliu bound for Guoliao or Qingshui Stream, and get off at Shiqiao Mountain Villa.

　　Supply Stop: Shiqiao Mountain Villa offers food and accommodation.