Scenic Simeng

　　The mountains here resemble the majestic and picturesque peaks of Guilin; the waters here are as clear and translucent as those of the Li River. Compared to Guilin, the scenery here possesses a unique natural beauty and distinctive charm.

　　The mountains of Simeng are classic examples of Danxia landform. Taking a wooden boat from the county town of Xupu and sailing westward along the meandering Xushui River, you will see towering mountains in hues of bright red, deep red, and crimson standing majestically along the river, each with a unique shape. Bathed in spring breezes, bright sunlight, and azure waves, some look like Buddhas chanting scriptures, others like fairies treading on waves, and still others like beasts or birds in flight, unfolding one stunning scroll of natural painting after another. Viewed from a height, the peaks here rise layer upon layer, galloping like wild horses, presenting an ever-changing and magnificent spectacle.

　　The waters of Simeng are wide and gentle. Li Yingchang, Deputy Secretary-General of the Provincial Tourism Society, delighted by the view of the water, spontaneously composed a poem: “I’ve heard Qu Yuan once ventured into the pools of Xupu, where orchids and sweet flags graced the waters between clouds. The immortal breeze has dyed Simeng’s waters azure — a sight so fair, even the Jasper Lake would take second place.”