Shapang Nesting Peak

　　To the north of Shapang Town in Deqing County lies a towering mountain known as Nesting Peak, standing at an elevation of 1,049 meters. It is the highest point in the county and the foremost peak of Deqing. Nesting Peak rises majestically above the surrounding mountains. Around its summit are three smaller peaks, giving it the alternate name “Brush Rack Mountain.” Legend has it that during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, a poor man named Chen Xingwu led a rebellion and gathered followers atop this peak, forming a stronghold from which he robbed the wealthy and aided the poor across the regions of Deqing, Fengkai, and Yunan. Hence the name Nesting Peak.

　　Although Nesting Peak is high, the area around its summit is relatively open and flat, spanning over 800 acres. From elevations of 700 meters up to the peak, the land is covered with azaleas. Azaleas belong to the Ericaceae family and are perennial, evergreen or deciduous shrubs. Native to various parts of southern China, they also serve as indicator plants for acidic soils. There are about 600 species within the genus, making them world-renowned ornamental plants. Azalea flowers are brightly colored, appearing in hues of red, purple, pink, and yellow, with red being the most common.

　　When in full bloom, the azaleas cover the mountains in a sea of fiery red, earning them the nickname “Mountain Flame Flowers.” Legend says that the ancient Shu emperor Du Yu transformed into a cuckoo bird, whose cries caused drops of blood to stain the flowers red. Every year around the Qingming Festival, it’s the season when “vermilion flames dance on the mountain boughs, and cuckoo calls echo through green fields.” At Nesting Peak, clusters of azaleas bloom in succession, scattered amidst the clouds and mist, radiant and resplendent. This creates the spectacular view of Nesting Peak’s Crimson Azaleas. Since this enchanting natural alpine garden was discovered in recent years, visitor numbers have steadily increased. People come here to hike, gaze into the distance, enjoy spring outings, and admire the blossoms—a truly delightful experience. In the peak year, more than 20,000 flower enthusiasts visited.