Zhenwu Mountain Park

　　Zhenwu Mountain Park is located in the Chenjiapo area to the west of Xingren County and situated in the southwestern corner of the county town, covering an area of 2,400 mu. The county’s ring road runs directly nearby, placing it within the extended area of the old town of Xingren. According to the *Xingren County Annals*, Zhenwu Mountain, also known as Cuiping Mountain, was one of the “Eight Scenic Spots of Xingren” during the Republican era — “Red Leaves Towering Amidst Emerald Green.” Zhang Junying, a native scholar of the county, once wrote a poem in praise: “A towering peak with emerald pavilions winding round, / Half the mountain in May is veiled in crimson sound. / Travelers newly arrived ask in surprise, / Why do autumn hues blaze all through summer’s rise?”

　　Since the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty, a number of structures have been built on Zhenwu Mountain, including the Wenchang Pavilion, Lingguan Temple, Baijiu Pavilion, Hongshu Mountain Villa, and Cuiping Pavilion, connected by stone stairways. However, most were destroyed during the Cultural Revolution, leaving only some ancient trees and ruins.

　　Originally, Zhenwu Mountain was home to hundreds of towering ancient trees. In 1997, the county Party committee and government, aiming to improve urban functions, enhance the environment, and raise the quality of life for residents, placed the reconstruction of Zhenwu Mountain Park on their agenda. In 1999, the majestic Zhenwu Tower was completed atop the mountain, with long white stone steps stretching from the foot to the summit, flanked by lush greenery, presenting a spectacular sight. Around the mountain’s base, a series of buildings and gardens have since been constructed, including the Jiyuan Temple Mahavira Hall, Banshan Pavilion, Children’s Playground, Splash Pool, Bonsai Garden, Lotus Maple Water Pavilion, Banyan Shade Rest Area, Bird Garden, Golden Toad Guarding the Well, Flower Stand Rockery Fountain, and Cascading Fountain. These additions have filled the area with greenery and fragrant blooms, creating an exquisite and lively classical-style garden that stands gracefully in the land of southwestern Guizhou, filling a longstanding gap as the first park in Xingren County.

　　From atop Zhenwu Tower, visitors can gaze out at the new skyline of Xingren County — a rapidly evolving scene of modern buildings that inspires a deep appreciation for the beauty of life.