Tianzhu Grand Canyon

　　   Tianzhu Grand Canyon is adjacent to the main peak scenic area of Tianzhu Mountain, situated between the Sanzu Temple and Foguang Temple scenic areas. It is an important water resource scenic spot of Tianzhu Mountain, and is complemented by its beautiful and diverse waterfalls, pools, streams, and lakes, which harmonize with the majestic peaks, peculiar rocks, and unusual pines of the main peak area.

　　   Tianzhu Mountain, where Tianzhu Grand Canyon is located, also known as Wan Mountain, is situated in Qianshan County in the southwestern part of Anhui Province. It earned its name from its main peak, which stands “like a single pillar holding up the sky.”

　　   In 106 BC, Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty honored it as the “Southern Sacred Mountain” during his southern inspection tour, though it was later abolished by decree of Emperor Wen of the Sui Dynasty. Hence, it is revered as the “Ancient Southern Sacred Mountain.” Additionally, during the Spring and Autumn Period, it was part of the territory of the Wan Kingdom. The mountain was called Wan Mountain, and the river Wan River—hence the abbreviation “Wan” for Anhui Province originates from this. Within the Tianzhu Mountain scenic area, there are “majestic peaks, peculiar rocks, mysterious caves, and beautiful waters,” combining the grandeur of northern mountains with the elegance of southern ones, along with rich cultural heritage. It is a National Key Scenic Area, National Forest Park, National AAAA-level Tourist Attraction, and National Geopark.

　　   There is also a story behind the development of Tianzhu Grand Canyon: It is said that many years ago, a local veteran used his severance pay to approach the village committee with a proposal to contract this valley. Relying on his hard work, he developed Tianzhu Grand Canyon. As a result, the scenic area is owned by the local village committee, and its facilities are quite underdeveloped. Before entering, visitors must bring plenty of water. There are places to buy water inside, but only one shop at the very end—and the prices there are extremely high.

　　   The canyon has a drop of over 200 meters, with steep cliffs and rapid waters. Countless large and small waterfalls cascade in clusters. The larger ones plunge from great heights with overwhelming momentum, while the smaller ones twist and turn gracefully. The Tongtian Waterfall, with a drop of a hundred meters, is considered a unique wonder of East China.

　　   The numerous pools come in various shapes and are charmingly beautiful. Pictographic rocks such as “Lion Looking Back,” “Buddha Listening to the Waves,” and “Apeman Playing in the Water” are vivid and lifelike.

　　   The Taoyuan Lake upstream, backed by the peaks of Tianzhu Mountain, is surrounded by green hills. The lake is long and narrow, mysterious and seemingly endless. When the surface is calm, the peaks are mirrored on the water. When the breeze blows, the surface shimmers. Boating on the lake is like entering a fairyland.

　　   The scenic area boasts lush vegetation and a rich variety of plants. Towering pines and bamboos fill the landscape, adorned with mountain flowers in spring and crimson leaves in autumn, offering delightful and refreshing views. The walking trails follow the river, where the water is crystal clear, and streams flow along the way. Visitors can fully enjoy the fun of being close to water. “Heaven cleaved the cliffs, nine streams converge; since ancient times dragons have lingered here. Waterfalls hang three thousand feet, with shrubs layering into clouds.”

　　   Foguang Temple, originally known as Mazu An, gained fame for the nunnery. It is located at the southern entrance of the Tianzhu Mountain Scenic Area in Anhui Province. It is said that during the Tang Dynasty, the Zen Master Mazu Daoyi traveled across the land and once meditated and practiced quietly at what is now “Jiaping Pavilion” at the southern gate of Tianzhu Mountain.

　　   Local villagers built a nunnery next to the pavilion in memory of Master Mazu, where incense was offered, and the nunnery was named “Mazu.” In the 25th year of the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty (1597), Wu Yingbin, a scholar from Tongcheng, and Ruan Zihua, a scholar from Huaining and official of the Ministry of Revenue, admired the master’s reputation and invited him to reside at Mazu An. They donated substantial funds to build a temple. In the 27th year of the Wanli era (1599), Emperor Shenzong sent an envoy, Dang Li, to bestow imperial sutras and curtains, and decreed that Mazu An be renamed Foguang Temple.