Ancient Tianchi

　　Ancient Tianchi is situated on Tianchiling of Xiupingshan in Chengguan Town, Baihe County.

　　The mountain ridges tower above, and in between lies a flat area, about 2 meters in both length and width, roughly square in shape—this is the site of the ancient Tianchi.

　　Originally, Tianchi was a pool that collected water. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it underwent multiple renovations. It spanned over an acre in size, resembling a small lake with crystal-clear blue water. Wildflowers grew thickly around the pool, and the grass was lush as a carpet. When the bright moon hung in the sky, the pool surface became a mirror, reflecting the moonlight above and below, creating a serene and beautiful scene. “Moonlit Night at Tianchi” is one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Baihe County.

　　Beside the pool stands a stone stele from the Qing Dynasty’s Qianlong era, approximately 1.1 meters tall, 0.50 meters wide, and 0.10 meters thick, inscribed with the two characters “Tian Chi” (Heavenly Lake). Above the stone platform by the pool, there are several ancient tombs, with legend saying that among them lies the tomb of Luo Hongxian, the top imperial scholar of the Ming Dynasty. To the north of the pool lies Zizhuang, where clusters of osmanthus trees grow. In autumn, their dense blossoms and rich fragrance make it one of the scenic highlights of Baihe.

　　Although Tianchi has now dried up, its scenery remains. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and lush forests, the area is tranquil and picturesque, offering delightful views and serving as a popular leisure and tourist destination for the people of Baihe County.