Lotus Peak Rises in Grace

　　Lotus Mountain, also known as "West Kongtong," is situated 15 kilometers east of Yeliguan Town and lies within Bajiao Township, Lintan County, Gannan Prefecture. With an absolute height of 3,578 meters and a relative height of 1,300 meters, the entire peak is composed of exposed limestone, forming a summit that resembles a lotus flower with nine petals—hence its name. The mountain stretches approximately 1 kilometer from north to south and about 2 kilometers from east to west. Its shape is striking, with sheer cliffs rising hundreds of meters on all sides. Countless pine trees, cypresses, vines, and other lush plants cling to the cliffs. From a distance, the steep walls look as if they have been carved from stone, but up close, they appear verdant and towering. Nestled among overlapping ridges, the peak resembles a lotus flower emerging from water, blooming in a sea of green. Deep valleys and quiet streams echo with the sound of flowing water. Scenic spots such as the Jade Emperor Pavilion, Water Curtain Cave, Cliff of Self-Sacrifice, Serpent Retreat, Single-Plank Bridge, Narrow Alley, and Golden Summit showcase the wonders of nature’s craftsmanship. From the mountain’s base to its summit, over 20 uniquely designed pavilions and temples are built along the slopes. Their carvings and paintings are especially ingenious. Among them, the stone Buddha statues at Wu Family Hermitage, identified by experts as being carved during the Northern Wei Dynasty, hold significant historical research value. The various deities sculpted throughout the Lotus Mountain complex each bear distinct expressions. Some of these structures hang suspended mid-air, others crown the mountaintops, and some are embedded into the cliffs. Legend has it that Lotus Mountain is where the Yellow Emperor once sought enlightenment from the immortal Guangchengzi, who is said to have attained immortality here. It is also a sacred site for both Buddhism and Taoism, adding to its mystical allure. Upon reaching the Golden Summit and standing atop the sea of clouds, one may feel as though they are ascending to the heavens. The landscapes of eight counties spread out as far as the eye can see, evoking a transcendent sense of serenity and wonder.

　　Lotus Mountain is not only the birthplace of the "Hua'er" folk songs of Taozhou but also a place of worship for the Han, Hui, and Tibetan peoples in the surrounding areas. Taozhou "Hua'er" is a unique branch of the Tao-Min "Hua'er," which stands alongside the He-Huang "Hua'er." Rooted deeply in the hearts of the local Han, Hui, and Tibetan communities, it carries the ancient essence of rural life and embodies the deep love of the people of the Tao River region for their homeland. Keeping pace with the times, it continues to be sung to this day. Every year from the first to the sixth day of the sixth lunar month, the traditional "Mountain-Wandering Hua'er Festival" is held here. During the festival, singers gather in large numbers, colorful fans flutter, flower umbrellas sway, and the sound of Hua'er songs fills the air day and night. The event attracts tens of thousands of visitors and performers, celebrated for its massive scale, rich content, and vibrant atmosphere, earning fame both within and beyond the province.