Nine-Bend Path

　　The Nine-Bend Path: A mountain trail leading to Hongfu Temple, initially established as a path in the 27th year of the Kangxi reign (1688). In the 54th year of the Qianlong reign (1789), Chen Dawen, the governor-general and provincial judge of Guizhou, advocated for its renovation. In the 5th year of the Xianfeng reign (1855), Wuzheng, the head monk, raised funds for restoration. After the founding of the People's Republic of China, the government allocated funds to widen and reinforce the path. Winding along the mountain terrain and cliffs, the path consists of 383 stone steps that twist and turn—every dozen steps or so it bends, every few dozen steps it curves. After navigating nine perilous zigzags shaped like the character “之” (meaning “to go”), you finally reach the gate of Hongfu Temple, hence the name “Nine-Bend” Stone Path. The path winds through serene shade, shrouded in mist and clouds, and features natural wonders such as the Ancient Buddha Cave, the Conch-Blowing Wall, the Echoing Stone Cave, the Willow Well, the Bowl-Washing Pool, and the Emerald Bamboo Dragon Pool. It also boasts historical cliff inscriptions from various dynasties, including “The First Mountain,” “Scenic Marvel of Qianling,” “Do More Good Deeds, Accumulate More Merit,” and the carved character “Tiger,” as well as cultural landmarks such as the Pavilion, the Lingguan Pavilion, and the One-Spring Pavilion. Along the way, you may even encounter macaques begging for food by the roadside, adding to the charm. Visitors are invariably delighted by the experience.