Qitai Mountain

　　Qitai Mountain is one of the renowned “Three Famous Mountains of Northern Fujian.” The *Huan Yu Ji* (Records of the Vast World) states: “Its rugged peaks are connected one after another, beyond count, with high cliffs and towering summits, some exceeding a thousand zhang in height, and the mountain brings rain when faint clouds gather.” The *Jiajing Shaoxing Prefecture Records* from the Ming Dynasty note: “Qitai Mountain faces Shunchang to the east and reaches Jiangle to the south, with seven-tiered peaks, hence the name.” According to the *Shunchang County Annals* from the Xianfeng era of the Qing Dynasty: “Qitai Mountain spans Jiangle to the east, overlooks Shunchang to the north, and rises over twenty li in height. It is named Qitai for its scenic spots — the Seven Platforms, Wenzhu, Puxian, Huixian, Lion, Cloud Platform, and Moon Platform.” Here, the mountain peaks are uniquely shaped, clouds drift fragrantly, pools are mirror-clear, streams wind like jade ribbons, bizarre rocks rise strikingly, and ancient trees tower densely. Every step unveils a view, every corner holds charm. Celebrated for its “Three Wonders” — peaks, sea of clouds, and flower seas — it forms a spectacular tourist landscape. Qitai Mountain is covered in dense forests and shaded by thick canopies. Cliff sides are lush with flowers and trees, creating a majestic, ocean-like scene. In summer, the weather is cool as autumn, pleasant and ideal for escaping the heat. People liken Qitai Mountain to “Shunchang’s Mount Lu.” On scorching summer days, stepping into the forest shade, resting amidst the area, with murmuring springs and refreshing breezes, makes one linger involuntarily. “Layer upon layer, the green mountains never end; countless trees cast shadows along winding mountain paths.” This is the true depiction of Qitai Mountain by the ancient poet Qiu JiuKui.