Tianchi Zhihai

　　    Tianchi Zhihai, located 7 kilometers north of Zhili Guan between Baishi Mountain and Miaohua Mountain, is a high-mountain flat lake. Locals call it "Changye Pool." Legend has it that during the Ming Dynasty, the great general Chang Yuchun led his army on a western campaign and watered their horses here, hence the name. It is a natural freshwater lake at an altitude of 2,610 meters. The lake stretches 5 kilometers in length, with a width ranging from several dozen to several hundred meters. To the east of the pool, steep cliffs face Baishi Mountain, while the clear water reflects the surrounding mountains and trees, blending the landscape, clouds, and sky into one. The reflections sway with the ripples, creating a scene of tranquil beauty. The name "Changye Pool" also stems from its marvels: First, the water remains crystal-clear and sweet year-round—drinking it refreshes both body and mind. In winter, the pool freezes over completely, forming a smooth, glassy ice surface. Intricate patterns appear within the ice layers, resembling flowers, trees, landscapes, figures, and even farming tools and household items, all strikingly lifelike—a unique spectacle hailed as the "Zhiehai Ice Painting," one of the "Eight Scenic Views of Taozhou." Second, even in the depths of winter when the pool is covered in thick ice, water flowing out from under the stone gate at the southern end produces rising mist and flows ceaselessly. Third, no matter drought or flood, the water level remains level with the stone threshold. Even during relentless storms with crashing waves, the pool never overflows; nor does it dry up under scorching suns or prolonged droughts. The seepage beneath the stone threshold remains constant without sudden changes—its mystery sparks endless wonder. Locals of all ethnicities regard it as a sacred pool, worshipping it year-round with ceaseless incense offerings. Nearby, the “Changye Temple” and “Changshan Temple,” with their soaring eaves and upturned roof corners, further enhance the wonder of the site.