Seven-Star Swallow’s Nest Ridge

　　    Seven-Star Swallow’s Nest Ridge, with its main peak at an elevation of 487 meters, is fronted by the surging Changhua River and backed by the ever-flowing Seven-Star Hot Spring. The ridge is covered with overlapping green peaks, boasts beautiful mountains and clear waters, and presents a captivating landscape. Viewed from afar, the ridge displays distinct charms in all four directions. Looking up from the northern slope at the foot of the ridge, it resembles a fierce tiger guarding the forest, crouching atop a high hill, facing east with an imposing air — as if declaring that good fortune is welcome but troubles should stay away. From the southern slope, it looks like a large frog squatting by the water, gazing at the river and calling on its kin to join forces in eliminating pests and protecting the crops. From the western slope, it appears like a tender mother rabbit nursing her young, lying sideways with an expression of both hardship and willingness, instantly evoking the sentiment of “Who says the heart of an inch-long grass can repay the warmth of spring sunshine?” From the eastern slope, one sees the lush green peaks complementing the crystal-clear waters, creating a harmonious and enchanting riverscape. Ascending the ridge reveals yet another unique view. Looking upwards, the peaks appear hazy, majestic, and mysterious. As you climb higher, the summit becomes clearer, and gradually you can make out a huge rock at the top that resembles a human figure — this is the legendary “Buddha-Gazing Stone,” a thousand-year-old tale. It is said that in ancient times, a vicious deity arrived on the ridge. Standing at the summit, whenever he pointed his right hand at people passing below, they would drop dead on the spot. The local people lived in constant fear and detested the deity’s atrocities. Later, the Heavenly Emperor learned of the deity’s behavior and sent the Thunder God to subdue him, transforming him into stone as atonement for his sins, so that he could protect the villagers. Since then, the local people have lived in peace and prosperity. The ridge is covered with towering ancient trees and lush shade, home to a variety of tropical plants. Precious timber species include rosewood, hopea, vatica, fir, jianshan, ekki, and red sandalwood, while ornamental plants and flowers feature orchids, chicken-foot flowers, kapok, and mountain phoenix flowers. Medicinal plants include Spatholobus suberectus, Kaempferia galanga, Alpinia oxyphylla, Amomum villosum, and honeysuckle. Amidst the dense foliage, a wide variety of birds and beasts make their homes, adding richness and delight to sightseeing.

　　    The southern end of the Swallow’s Nest Ridge rises straight into the clouds, where a massive cliff face features a large circular cave opening beneath it — this is the Swallow Cave. Thousands of swallows build their nests and breed in the crevices of the rocky walls, giving the ridge its name. Every morning, flocks of swallows fly out from the cave in search of food; at sunset, they return in groups. As a result, during dawn and dusk, the ridge is filled with densely swirling swallows, often creating the spectacular sight of what looks like a huge black cloud blotting out the sun. Inside the Swallow Cave, stalactites abound in a dazzling array of shapes and colors, forming a magnificent sight. At the western foot of the ridge lies a small Li ethnic village. From a distance, the village appears to hug the ground, while the towering Swallow’s Nest Ridge reaches into the sky. This contrast between the lofty mountain and the humble hamlet forms a picture of mutual reliance, and over centuries, the villagers and the swallows have formed an enduring bond. The villagers have traditionally protected the swallows, establishing an unwritten rule that has kept the cave undisturbed. Standing atop the high cliff and looking down, the river at the western foothills is as smooth as a mirror, reflecting the majestic peaks, blue sky, and drifting clouds — a breathtaking, serene scene like a static painting. Behind the ridge, toward the sunrise side, there is a hot spring with seven springs, hence named “Seven-Star Spring.” The spring pool is about 10 meters long, 7 meters wide, over 1 meter deep, and covers an area of more than 100 square meters. A simple bathing facility has been built, accommodating up to 400 people daily. The Seven-Star Hot Spring is rich in sulfur minerals, effective in treating various skin diseases. With its pleasant water temperature, it attracts visitors year-round.

　　    Seven-Star Swallow’s Nest Ridge, with its splendid and peculiar beauty enhanced by the pleasant hot springs for both sightseeing and bathing, has seen a growing influx of domestic and international tourists since Hainan became a province. Its fame has increased day by day, and it has become livelier and more bustling with each passing time.