Xianjingtai Scenic Area

　　Xianjingtai Scenic Area is one of the fourth batch of national scenic spots approved by the State Council in 2002, covering a total area of 42 square kilometers. It has been included in national atlases such as the China Atlas and the China Historical Sites Atlas. The Xianjingtai National Scenic Area is located within the pilot zone for the Chang-Ji-Tu Development and Opening-Up Initiative, as approved by the State Council. It lies in the upper reaches of the Tumen River in Helong City, Yanbian Prefecture, Jilin Province, surrounded by unpolluted pristine forests, pure rivers, rich biodiversity, and flora and fauna—making it one of the purest and most beautiful environments ideal for health and leisure. The area boasts a unique collection of naturally sculpted rock formations resembling humans and objects, forming a national treasure of historical and cultural landscape heritage. These include: the spectacular peaks, rocks, pines, flowers, caves, springs, valleys, sea of clouds and sunrise, a 38-meter waterfall, Korean ethnic folklore, and the ruins of Qixing Temple, among over 300 other nationally precious scenic and historical cultural heritage sites.

　　The Xianjingtai Scenic Area currently has the capacity to receive domestic tour groups as a national-level scenic destination. Plans are underway to further develop it into a uniquely Chinese national scenic area that integrates the traditional culture and customs of the Korean ethnic group in Yanbian. The distinctive Xianjing Mountain within the scenic area was formed 1.66 million years ago during the early Pleistocene epoch by the eruption of magmatic rocks, resulting in a granite stepped plateau landform. Towering peaks stand along the upper-middle reaches of the Tumen River, exhibiting grandeur, marvelous craftsmanship, diverse shapes, and spectacular beauty. What makes Xianjingtai Scenic Area unique in China are its naturally sculpted masterpieces, including the exquisitely shaped Camel Peak, Immortal Rock, Fairy Ear Rock, Elephant Trunk Rock, Golden Turtle Rock, Immortal Palace, as well as its peculiar pines, rare flowers, sea of clouds, sunrise, waterfalls, and over 300 other famous mountain landscapes. Their forms and scenic imagery evoke strong aesthetic pleasure and inspiration, captivating visitors and making them linger on. It has become a national treasure-level natural sculpture museum like no other. In spring, bright azaleas cover the mountains in vivid colors; in summer, after the rain, visitors can climb to the mountaintop to admire the sea of clouds and misty fairy islands, resembling a heavenly gathering of immortals; in autumn, red leaves compete brilliantly in color; and in winter, the snowy peaks, frosted pines, and silver landscapes meet the blue sky and white clouds, evoking a paradise of northern scenery. Thus, Xianjingtai has long been known since ancient times as the “Number One Fairyland Under Heaven” for its extraordinary beauty. The human history of Xianjingtai stretches back far, with the cultural customs of the Korean ethnic group in Yanbian, the historical site of Bohai Kingdom’s King Wen’s visit, and the Buddhist ruins of Qixing Temple, all renowned both domestically and abroad. Nearby attractions include the famous Changbai Mountain and the exotic landscapes of Korea. Xianjing Mountain: With an elevation of 921 meters, Xianjing Mountain features a perfectly composed granite plateau landform formed by magmatic eruptions 1.66 million years ago, presenting a landscape where “viewed horizontally, it looks like a forest; viewed from the side, it resembles peaks; and from afar or near, at varying heights, each view is different.” It is composed of majestic peaks including the Three Brothers Peak, Longevity Peak, Unique Beauty Peak, Colorful Suspension Peak, Arirang Peak, and Goryeo Peak. Among these, the highest and most beautiful main peak is named Xianjing Mountain. Xianjing Mountain’s beauty lies in its magnificent and spectacular appearance, marvelous craftsmanship, diverse shapes, and picturesque mountain ranges. The peaks of Xianjing Mountain take on forms resembling humans and objects, offering viewers intense aesthetic delight and inspiration, making them reluctant to leave.