Shimen Reveals Its Emerald Beauty

　　Shimen Reveals Its Emerald Beauty. Shimen Mountain is located at the border between Xintianpu and Longkouxi townships in Xinshao County, also known as Shimen Shoal. The two mountains stand facing each other like a gate, with a narrow riverbank and towering reefs. The Zi River flows through this area, surging and roaring, sending up waves four to five feet high that crash against the cliffs with thunderous roars. Around the transition between spring and summer, when the Zi River rises sharply, the waves become even more turbulent and fierce. Ming Dynasty official Che Daran wrote a poem about Shimen Mountain: “Distant skies tower with myriad peaks, / Two cliffs flank the riverbanks. / Spring rain washes them fresh emerald, / Morning glow tints them crimson red. / Midstream rushes the racing current, / Wild rocks chase the swirling foam. / Perils are heaven’s own design— / Brave souls press ever on.” The old wooden posts along the riverbank have long since vanished. Since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the waterway has been managed, improving navigational conditions. The mountain still boasts many nanmu bamboo groves, with layers of green swaying in the wind and peaks stacked in rich hues, making the scenery as stunning as ever.

　　(No images available; contributions welcome.)