Shaoyang Jiulong Mountain

　　    Jiulong Mountain has an elevation of 1,142 meters and is situated in Yankou Township to the northeast of the county town, 45 kilometers south of the county seat and 55 kilometers east of the ancient city of Baoqing.     The mountain features ancient rock carvings that read “Not Inferior to Wuling,” testifying to its scenery being as breathtaking as that of Wulingyuan. Here, lush bamboo and trees thrive among towering boulders. On the eastern side of the mountain stands the Human Face Lion Head Rock, which, when viewed from the side, strikingly resembles the bearded Maxim Gorky looking up to the sky in lament; from the front, it looks like a mighty lion roaring at the mountains and rivers; and from the back, it resembles a camel striding proudly through the desert. Further up the mountain lies Yan Yu Rock, where swallows build nests high above, appearing as if fledglings are darting through the air. Midway up the mountain, the Huangguo Waterfall and the Triple Waterfall create a dramatic cascade amid swirling white mist. The ‘inscrutable’ “Heavenly Book with Characters” hangs high on the cliff face, displaying powerful brush strokes; nearby, an ancient intertwined ginkgo tree stands lush and green, reaching towards the sky.        These attractions are thoughtfully spread along a complete scenic loop, offering visitors a feast for the eyes. Along the Golden Cave path on the mountain, a narrow tree-lined passage features the Dragon Head Rock, standing alone atop a peak, seemingly inhaling clouds and exhaling mist. There is also the Jiulong Mountain Reservoir, shaped like a spiral shell, nestled among jagged peaks and valleys, and the serene Jiulong Ancient Temple, where faint Buddhist chants can be heard, offering a tranquil spiritual experience. For those who make it to the summit at dawn and stand atop the massive rock known as Guanri Platform, watching the red sun break through the mist and rise slowly into the sky, it’s impossible not to marvel at nature’s grandeur. Descending from the southern side of the mountain, one will find an ancient bluestone path — an essential historical route connecting southwestern Hunan to Sichuan and Guizhou. The trail is dotted with scenic wonders along every step. The Wangmei Pavilion is tied to the legend of Cao Cao’s army using the sight of plums to quench their thirst. A luminous “night pearl” embedded in a giant rock once brought light to night travelers. Further along, at Xitou Ridge, there lies the Knee-Polishing Stone, smooth as a mirror, said to have been a celestial gift. It was believed that weary travelers who rubbed their knees on the stone would find relief from fatigue. In the middle of the ridge stands the ancient Xianji Pavilion (Immortal's Trace Pavilion), which not only offers rest and refreshment for passersby but also serves as a delightful spot for literati to admire and discuss the famous poetic couplet inscribed on the pavilion’s gate: “Where do you come from, traveler, after such a long and arduous journey? Through towering mountains and steep paths, you’ve braved life’s many perilous bends. I pause my steps here, gaze into this boundless realm, and laugh at the clouds and mists chasing each other — all the peaks seem to be hurrying in haste.”

　　    Shaoyang City, Hunan Province