Longtan Waterfall

　　Longtan Waterfall is located in Shilongchong, about four kilometers north of Mengshan County, and has long been recognized as one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Mengshan. It was documented in the *Yongan Prefecture Annals* during the Qing Dynasty. Stretching over ten kilometers deep into the mountains, Shilongchong houses Longtan in its central valley, spanning approximately half an acre. Visitors must navigate through nine winding turns and thirteen bends to reach the waterfall within the valley.

　　The mountain paths within the valley are rugged, dotted with oddly-shaped rocks, while the babbling stream is accompanied by birdsongs and floral fragrances along the way.

　　After rounding nine mountain bends, a refreshing breeze greets you, followed by the sound of thunderous crashing — like rolling thunder, the tolling of a great bell, or the beating of war drums. As you push through the dense forest, the landscape suddenly opens up, revealing shimmering silver light as a white cascade plunges from the sky. It drifts down like a fine misty rain, then transforms into swirling white fog that rises above the sheer cliffs. Sunlight refracting through the mist creates a fleeting rainbow, casting a dazzling array of colors across the surrounding rock faces, giving visitors a truly magical experience. Sitting on the precarious rocks by the pool to take in the view is an experience full of charm.

　　The *Yongan Prefecture Annals* features a poem praising this scene: “The cascading waterfall murmurs like flowing jade, / A lofty white silk banner hangs bright in the sky. / When shall I build my hut by Longtan’s side, / And gaze at such splendor without journeying far to Mount Lu?”