Shimen Gorge

　　It is a mysterious grand canyon nestled between Woyun Peak and Bushi Peak in the eastern part of Huangshan Mountain. The canyon extends 10 kilometers in depth, with a stream that is also 10 kilometers long. It is one of the major scenic highlights of Huangshan, a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site in China.

　　　　The gorge entrance is flanked by two towering peaks like gateposts with steep cliffs forming a natural “gate,” hence the name “Shimen Gorge” (Stone Gate Gorge). Inside the valley, rugged peaks rise competitively, bizarre rocks are scattered about, wildflowers bloom exquisitely, lush trees provide dense shade, birds sing in chorus, and monkeys play in groups. The stream water is crystal clear and gurgles melodiously. The valley features competing peaks, clustered strange rocks, numerous pools, sweet-tasting water, dense forests, blooming mountain flowers, and fragrances that drift through all seasons. Along the gorge trail, you’ll pass landmarks such as Yipin Peak, Wulao Peak, Guanyin Peak, Shisun Peak, and Shixin Peak, eventually reaching Beihai Hotel. It serves as the gateway to the eastern ecotourism area of Huangshan Scenic Area and involves an approximately 8-hour hiking journey. This is a natural tourist scenic area primarily focused on mountain climbing, sightseeing, exploring serene spots, rock climbing, and water recreation.

　　　　The peaks of Shimen Gorge are uniquely beautiful. You can see: the waterfall of Bushi Peak cascading like a silken ribbon, Woyun Peak appearing and disappearing with the clouds, Baihe Peak with five blossoms huddled together, Yunnü Peak where five beauties stand side by side, as well as Lingxiao Peak, Bizan Peak, Yuanren Peak, Yifan Peak, and a total of 36 large and small peaks — all standing tall and graceful.

　　　　The rocks of Shimen Gorge are remarkably strange. You can see: the “Double Crucian Carp Welcoming Guests” by the roadside, the “Golden Turtle Gazing at the Moon” among the pines, the “Fairy’s Slender Hand” on the cliff, the “Yunnü Bathing in Spring” in the pool, the loving “Longing Monkeys,” the amusing “Donald Duck,” the soaring “Feilong Gorge,” the deep and narrow “One-Line Sky,” and the huge, eternally smiling statue of Shennong seated atop the peak — all incredibly lifelike.

　　　　The waters of Shimen Gorge are dazzlingly beautiful. You can also see: Yunnü Pool as clear as crystal, Zuixian Pool shining like flowing rosy clouds, YuChan Pool as exquisite as jade, Jin Gui Pool as lovely as colorful pearls, the Carp Pool as splendid as brocade, the Yunya Waterfall drifting like silk, each spot radiating brilliant charm.

　　　　The legends of Shimen Gorge are beautiful and moving. For example: Shennong gathered herbs here and enjoyed himself so much he never returned, leaving behind the giant statue of Shennong. Li Bai drank from the beautiful waters as if they were fine wine, leaving the legacy of Zuixian Pool, where “flowing water carries flowers away, and white clouds bring wine.” The love legend of the mermaid (carp) — the “Linxiao Romance” — has left behind the scenic Linyu Pool.

　　　　Shimen Gorge is also a revolutionary site of red tourism. It was the location of the brave battle of the Red Army's Northern Expedition Anti-Japanese Vanguard in Tanjiaqiao. Today, remnants such as the command posts of Fang Zhimin and Su Yu can still be found near the gorge entrance, and amidst the blooming wildflowers lies the tomb of Marshal Su Yu.

　　　　Shimen Gorge is a vibrant world of flowers, hence its nickname “Baihua Yuan” (Source of a Hundred Flowers). Shimen is the most beautiful under heaven, yet another wonder of Huangshan.

　　　　Being here, you can both challenge your physical limits and experience the heroic feeling of “reaching the summit.” It is a great destination for travelers seeking to explore serene beauty and connect with nature.