Main Peak Scenic Area of Tianzhu Mountain

　　The Main Peak Scenic Area is the essence of the Tianzhu Mountain tour, covering a total area of 8.20 square kilometers. It is characterized mainly by its peculiar pines, grotesque rocks, ancient pines, and lush forests. This scenic area features a uniquely diverse landscape of intermingled granite peak forests and peak clusters. Majestic and precipitous peaks, towering grotesque rocks, deep canyons, mysterious caves, and ever-changing scenery create a serene and enchanting atmosphere at every turn, all in their most natural form. In addition, visitors to the Main Peak Scenic Area can also witness the magical and ever-changing seasonal views. Depending on the season and weather, one may observe rare natural phenomena such as Buddha’s halo, purple haze, sunrise, sunset, sea of clouds, evening glow, rime frost, and snow-covered landscapes that are usually hard to come by.

　　Cable Car Overview

　　There are currently two cable cars in the Tianzhu Mountain Scenic Area: the Tianzhu Mountain Cable Car and the Dalongwo Cable Car, both offering convenient round-trip services.

　　Tianzhu Mountain Cable Car

　　Commonly known as the "First Cable Car," it was jointly built by the Tianzhu Mountain Scenic Area Management Committee and Hong Kong Huashan Trading Company, and officially opened to the public in October 1995. With a total length of 726 meters and an elevation difference of 304 meters, it can carry 350 passengers per hour, taking about 9 minutes to reach the upper station. Along the way, visitors can admire sights such as the Splashing Waterfall, Eagle Folding Its Wings, Golden Toad Watching the Moon, and Ancient Ape Gazing at the River from various angles.

　　Dansha Peak, standing at an elevation of 940 meters, was referred to in old records as “legend has it that cinnabar was found here but could not be taken; at midnight, a red glow could sometimes be seen, visible from far and wide.” The old tales about cinnabar have strong Taoist influences. The slightly reddish gravel covering the peak is due to its natural color.

　　Qinglong Lake

　　Located to the east of Qinglong Stream and upstream of the Splashing Waterfall. Originally called Snake-shaped Flatland, it is an artificial lake formed by damming the convergence of Qinglong Stream and Feilai Stream. Covering an area of about 2,000 square meters, the lake is shaped like a green tadpole. There are two stone arch bridges on the lake—Qinglong Bridge and Dansha Bridge. On the west side of the lake is Guanyun Tower, and on the east is the Dansha Pavilion. The surrounding area features lush pines and blooming flowers, with pavilions and peaks reflected in the water, creating a uniquely beautiful and tranquil scene.

　　Tianzhu Mountain Villa

　　Formed by merging the original Tianzhu Mountain Villa and Woyun Villa, Tianzhu Mountain Villa is a modern multi-functional hotel within the main scenic area of Tianzhu Mountain, meeting star-rated service standards. It has 180 standard rooms, including 3-star standard rooms at Guanyun Tower, 2-star standard rooms at Qingsnow Residence, and regular standard rooms at the Courtyard. There are 10 dining rooms of various sizes, capable of accommodating 400 guests for accommodation and 800 for dining. The villa enjoys a prime location at the golden junction of the East and West Pass Scenic Areas, connecting the Tianzhu Mountain Cable Car and Qinglong Stream Cable Car. Adjacent to the picturesque Qinglong Lake—with its clear waters, green mountains, gentle breezes—it is an ideal spot for leisure, sightseeing, business, and entertainment.

　　Dalongwo Cable Car

　　The Tianzhu Mountain Dalongwo Cable Car project, equipped with imported Austrian machinery, had a total construction investment of 110 million yuan. After more than a year of intense construction, it officially began operations on April 26, 2013. The Dalongwo Cable Car has a maximum capacity of 2,000 passengers per hour. The five-minute ride offers a breathtaking view of the lush, emerald-green vegetation covering thousands of hectares of Tianzhu Mountain.

　　June Snow

　　After passing Tianzhu Mountain Villa, amidst the lush greenery, patches of white sandy dunes emerge, sparkling brilliantly. Walking on them feels like treading on snow, producing a crunching sound. Even in the peak of summer at noon, one can’t help but feel a chill. After rain followed by sunshine, the rain-washed quartz stones on the sandy hills shine in a dazzling array of colors, presenting a spectacularly beautiful sight. On a moonlit night, under a clear sky with a gentle breeze, the moonlight and the “snow” reflect off each other, bathing the entire mountain in a radiant glow, adding to its mystical allure. This is the first attraction of our Main Peak Scenic Area tour—June Snow.

　　Floating Cloud Waterfall

　　The higher the mountain of Tianzhu, the longer its flowing waters. Have you noticed? Ever since we left the villa, there has been a stream quietly accompanying us. Please look in the direction I’m pointing to the right front—that is one of the famous waterfalls of Tianzhu Mountain—Floating Cloud Waterfall. The Floating Cloud Waterfall is 12 meters high and shares the same source as the “Flying-In Waterfall” of Tianzhu Mountain. Originating from Feilai Peak, it flows through Niuma City and Qinglong Stream. The clear and bright stream water flows out from dense pine forests and cascades down from the top of a rocky cliff. From afar, it looks like a drifting white cloud falling from the blue sky or like a celestial maiden dancing gracefully with her long sleeves fluttering for your arrival.

　　Cliff Map of Anhui

　　On the western side of Feilai Peak, the rock wall has been eroded over time by spring water, forming a patch resembling fish scales or “dragon scales.” Careful observers may notice that its outer outline strikingly resembles the shape of today’s Anhui Province map—this is nature’s own “Map of Anhui.”

　　Zhenyi Slope

　　Zhenyi Slope: In ancient times, people viewed great mountains and ranges as mysterious—the clouds emerged from the mountains, rivers flowed through valleys, and birds and beasts inhabited the forests. Thus, they believed deities presided over these lands (Tianzhu Mountain is dedicated to the deity Siyuan Zhenjun). As a result, a tradition of mountain worship developed. Before making pilgrimages, people would pause here to calm their minds, tidy their clothes, and ascend the mountain with reverence. Hence, it is called “Zhenyi Slope” (Slope of Adjusting Clothes).

　　Turning left from Zhenyi Slope leads into Wulong Gorge, which stretches 1,400 meters from Nanguankou at the bottom to Tianzhu Pine at the top, narrowing to just 7 meters at its tightest points. Here, one finds peculiar pines, grotesque rocks, and swirling mists—a quintessential gorge landscape. Turning right from Zhenyi Slope leads to the Mysterious Valley route. Though the two routes offer different sceneries, they converge at Tianchi Peak. This introduction covers the Zhongguanzhai route.

　　Twin Lotus Bridges

　　These stone arch bridges, including their bodies, arches, and enclosed railings, were constructed following Tang Dynasty methods. There is a large rock at the front, and because both the arched bridge and the cable bridge are anchored on a single upright boulder, they are called the “Twin Lotus Bridges.”

　　Shaoqing Thatched Cottage

　　Site of the Shaoqing Thatched Cottage: During the Tang Dynasty's Zhenyuan era, Lu Wei, the prefect of Shuzhou, styled himself Shaoqing (also known as Junzai), witnessed a sudden split in the southeastern part of Mount Wan, revealing a surface as pure and translucent as jade. He reported this to the emperor, who renamed Wansui Mountain as Yuzhao Township. He admired the area’s exotic flowers, beautiful springs, and valleys, so he built a three-room thatched cottage where he would often drink wine and compose poetry in his leisure time.

　　Zhongguanzhai

　　In the late Song Dynasty, when the Yuan army marched south, Liu Yuan gathered over 100,000 soldiers and civilians to defend Tianzhu Mountain against the Yuan forces, holding out for 18 years. Liu set up four pass fortresses—East, South, West, and North—as well as the central Zhongguanzhai on Tianzhu Mountain. Mysterious Valley served as the troop encampment, while Zhongguanzhai was his headquarters. In 1998, the Tianzhu Mountain Management Committee restored Zhongguanzhai based on its original ruins. There are troop passages below, battlements above, and the Hundred-Step Cloud Ladder ahead—a steep 70-degree slope. Please be extra cautious, use both hands and feet, and climb carefully. After passing the King Pine, to the left are the Wulong Well and the Prayer-for-Rain Terrace; to the right are the Siyuan Cave and Secret Chamber. Historical records state, “Below lies the Crystal Cliff, extending straight to the vast sea.”

　　Surrounded by peaks such as Baoyue, Feilai, Xianzhu, Santai, Tianchi, and Wuzhi, this is the concentrated area of peaks in the main mountain range.

　　Niuma City

　　This is a mountain basin densely covered with forests and lush grasslands. It was once the "Niuma City" where Liu Yuan, the leader of the rebel army resisting the Yuan dynasty, grazed cattle and horses and used it as a supply transit point. In those days, there were rows of cattle and horse sheds, herds of plump pigs, horses, cattle, and sheep, wisps of rising cooking smoke, the lowing of cattle and the neighing of horses, and the sounds of chickens and dogs—a bustling yet serene mountain village scene.

　　In the past, there was only one route to and from the main gate of Tianzhu Mountain: from Mazu An via Qinglong Jian and Liangyao Ping, then through a plank path on the steep cliffs to enter Xiguan Zhai and finally reach the main gate. The "Mysterious Valley" leads to "Niuma City." This secret passage was discovered by Liu Yuan’s rebel army after they occupied the main gate, unknown to both the civilians outside the mountains and the Yuan army. Supplies were crucial in warfare, and Liu Yuan designated this secret mountain basin as a grain depot, showcasing his exceptional military acumen.

　　Longyin Huxiao Cliff

　　Stretching about 3 li in length and with a relative height of approximately 200 meters, this majestic cliff is called "Longyin Huxiao Cliff," which is the collective name for Longyin Cliff and Huxiao Cliff. Spanning from Feilai Peak in the west to Wuzhi Peak in the east, the cliffs rise high into the clouds, shrouded year-round in mist and clouds, with surging pine waves and the sound of fierce winds howling through the cliff crevices like tiger roars and dragon cries—truly majestic. Historical records say: “Where dragons roar and tigers howl, immortals gather.” The bizarre rocks, jagged fissures, and ancient, vigorous pines of "Longyin Huxiao Cliff" form exquisite murals. Look at "The Elephant Watching the Sunrise," "Two Immortals Returning," "The Old Turtle Probing the Sea," "The Golden Turtle Seeking Pearls," and other groups of abstract works that strikingly resemble real-life scenes—each one leaves viewers in endless contemplation and awe.

　　Feilai Peak

　　At the westernmost end of "Longyin Huxiao Cliff," a solitary peak soars into the clouds, with a massive rock on its summit like a canopy, entirely made of stone, with shallow water marks covering its body—this is the third highest peak of Tianzhu Mountain—Feilai Peak. It stands 1,424 meters above sea level, the entire peak formed from a single massive rock. At its top lies a rock about 3 zhang (over 9 meters) long, over 30 zhang (over 90 meters) in circumference, and more than 1 zhang (over 3 meters) high, perfectly round like a canopy pressing down on the summit, as if it flew in from the heavens. This rock is called the "Feilai Rock," resembling a grand crown atop the peak. The peak is named after the rock—Feilai Peak. The Feilai Rock is commonly known as the "Cap Rock." From the south, it looks like a hat or a straw raincoat; from the north, like chess pieces or a millstone; from the east, like a ball or a fist; and from the west, like a sleeping ox or a crouching tiger. There is also a legend about Feilai Peak: It is said that Emperor Qianlong visited Wan Mountain and, upon hearing a local official describe the Feilai Rock, spontaneously recited a poem: “It may not have flown here, / Surely people are just guessing. / If it flew here, why not fly away? / If it can’t fly away, how did it come?” It’s said the weather suddenly turned grim, with dark clouds churning, sand and wind raging, and the Feilai Rock seemingly ready to move, causing the earth to quake. Frightened, Emperor Qianlong knelt and prayed, fearing he had angered the mountain god, and immediately retracted his words: “It must have flown here, / Not mere guesswork by the people. / Since it flew here and can fly away, / Why did it come in the first place?” The moment he finished speaking, the clouds parted, the wind calmed, and the Feilai Rock returned to its original position—as we see it today…

　　To the south of Feilai Peak is "Baoyue Peak." Viewed from the south, the summit has two hook-like peculiar rocks on the east and west sides, with a flat, square-shaped stone slab in the middle. The two peculiar rocks lean slightly backward like two elderly men, exuding a leisurely and carefree demeanor—called "Two Immortals Playing Chess." Viewed from east to west, it resembles a crescent moon hanging in the blue sky—"Baoyue" (Treasure Moon). And from the southeast to the northwest, it transforms into "The Golden Rooster Singing at Dusk." Truly, every step offers a changing view, brimming with delightful charm. To the east, peaks such as Tianwa Peak, Dansha Peak, Feihu Peak, Fozhi Peak, Yingzhen Peak, Shiniu Peak, Linjiao Peak, Fupen Peak, and Tianshi Peak rise and fall, all graceful and upright…

　　Mysterious Valley

　　The Mysterious Valley trail consists of attractions such as Tongtian Valley, Xiaoyao Palace, Labyrinth, Dragon Palace, and Heavenly Palace, spanning a total of 1,000 meters. Over 2.6 billion years ago, Tianzhu Mountain was an ocean. By 240 million years ago, the Indosinian movement caused the southern and northern continents to converge again, with the Yangtze Plate subducting strongly beneath the North China Plate, bringing Tianzhu Mountain above water. Due to crustal movements, magma rose from underground to form sedimentary rocks, which, through internal and external forces of weathering and erosion, became granite. Subject to geological actions such as joints, fractures, collapses, landslides, flowing water, and weathering, it developed into the unique landscape of intermingled peak clusters and forests. Mysterious Valley is a product of crustal movement, filled with naturally formed peculiar rocks and massive stones stacked into numerous caves—each cave is uniquely marvelous and secluded. The valley also features rare plants such as fish-scale wood, fragrant torreya, and fairy maidens’ flowers, alongside uniquely shaped Huangshan pines, creating a distinctive scenic beauty within the valley.

　　Elephant Trunk Rock

　　Please look at this peculiar rock—the rock body bulges in a perfectly round shape, with a stone pillar standing upright toward the sky, resembling an elephant’s trunk, a marvel of nature, naturally formed, commonly known as "Elephant Trunk Rock." It is one of the representative peculiar rocks of Tianzhu Mountain.

　　Tongtian Valley

　　Ahead is Tongtian Valley. It is a newly developed attraction on the Mysterious Valley trail, stretching 330 meters in length. The cave interiors are intricately stacked, with interconnected chambers and caves within caves. The valley is steep, deep, winding, and spirals upward—it serves as a kind of "warm-up" before entering the Mysterious Valley. The Xiaoyao Palace, Labyrinth, and Dragon Palace of Mysterious Valley will bring this trail to its climax, then you’ll enter the Heavenly Palace, reach the Tianzhu Pine, and finally arrive at the Try-Heart Bridge to take in the grandeur of Tianzhu Mountain.

　　In the Tang Dynasty, Tianzhu Mountain was one of the nation’s Five Sacred Mountains, known as the "Central Sacred Mountain." Its main peak resembles "a single pillar holding up the sky," and thus it was likened to a pillar supporting the heavens. To reach the main peak, one must pass through Tongtian Valley—hence the meaning of "Tongtian" (Heaven-Reaching). In ancient times, the roads to Tianzhu Mountain were impassable, overgrown with thorns, and teeming with hidden beasts, making it no easy task for people to approach this heaven-supporting pillar. Today, the mountain’s hiking trails and facilities have been increasingly improved—you can ascend the main peak via Tongtian Valley or explore underground caves. Truly, "there are paths to the heavens and doors into the earth."

　　(Viewing Platform): This is the best spot to admire peaks such as Feilai, Santai, and Xianzhu on Longyin Huxiao Cliff, as well as sights like "Golden Rooster Singing at Dusk," "Monk Carrying a Nun on His Back," "Taibai Watching the Sea," and "Pigsy Taking a Nap." You can also gaze far at "Green Jade" Lian Dan Lake, where mountains rise from the water like Penglai Island, and mist-shrouded peaks appear draped in light veils—beautiful and ethereal, truly enchanting.

　　Mysterious Valley

　　Known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," Mysterious Valley was originally called "Si Yuan Cave." Legend says it was the divine cave where Si Ming Zhenjun, regarded as the leader of the gods, resided. Stretching over 450 meters, Mysterious Valley consists of hundreds of granite caves of various sizes, formed by rubble from surrounding peaks that rolled into the valley at over 1,200 meters above sea level. These caves are interconnected by a winding valley path, going up and down, light and dark, giving visitors a sense of mystery as they walk through. Mysterious Valley is also hailed as the "No. 1 Secret Granite Cave Mansion in China."

　　Wan Gong Statue, Tianzhu Reclining Buddha

　　No one knows in which era the divine craftsmanship of nature sculpted this dignified yet benevolent "Wan Bo Daifu" (Lord of Wan). This is a standing statue, and to the east in the distance lies a reclining statue of Guanyin gazing at the sky. Yujing Mountain stretches 30 li, its elegant ridgeline forming the outline of a reclining human figure. Look—the head and chest are distinct, the breasts prominently raised. That’s the left hand, gently holding a precious vase. On the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, when the sun rises right between the breasts, it becomes the "Tianzhu Reclining Buddha," also known as the "Huai Ri Guanyin" (Guanyin Embracing the Sun).

　　Xiaoyao Palace

　　When it comes to palaces, everyone knows they are Taoist structures. Legend says Tianzhu Mountain is under the jurisdiction of Si Yuan Zhenjun, belonging to the Taoist "Fourteenth Grotto-Heaven, Fifty-Seventh Blessed Land." At some point in history, a massive rock that collapsed from the peak landed perfectly wedged between two cliffs, forming a natural cave entrance. Upon entering, you’ll find yourself surrounded by stone walls, evoking a feeling of being trapped with "no way forward or back." Looking up, you’ll see a pine tree on the right cliff stretching toward the sky—so carefree and unrestrained. This sight is called "Iron Wall Hanging Painting."

　　Qiulong Pine

　　Xiaoyao Palace also has a pine called the Qiulong Pine. Qiulong, a small dragon with horns in ancient legends, has a trunk with bark patterns overlapping like dragon scales, and its upper, curved branches resemble the dragon’s head and horns. No matter which angle you view this Qiulong from, it appears coiled and upward-reaching. Some visitors even name this pine "A Group of Dragons Coiling Around the Pillar." Friends, when we admire high-mountain pines, we don’t just appreciate their majestic, leafy, and gracefully leaning forms—we also admire their extraordinary adaptability, growing tenaciously from cracks in the rocks. The characteristics of these pines include well-developed root systems, thick trunks, curved and layered branches, and short, thick pine needles. Each pine tree, with its unique posture, displays vibrant vitality. Botanists say, "The environment shapes these traits in high-mountain pines, giving them several times the resistance to strong winds, snow pressure, drought, and cold compared to pines at lower altitudes." Truly, survival of the fittest reveals exceptional beauty, and all things compete freely under the frosty sky.

　　Tianzhu Pine

　　After visiting the "Mysterious Valley," you’ll see the "Tianzhu Pine." It’s no taller than 5 meters, no thicker than 80 cm, but it’s over a thousand years old, yet still holds the spirit of enduring harsh winters. Its branches are sturdy, its crown lush and green, full of vitality. Its roots dig deep into the cracks of the rocks, facing away from Tianzhu and toward Feilai, reaching up to the blue sky while overlooking the abyss. It stands upright, exuding both masculine strength and feminine grace. Like the Guest-Greeting Pine of Huangshan, it warmly welcomes friends from all directions who dare to climb the heights.

　　Tianchi Peak, Duoxian Bridge

　　This peak is called "Tianchi Peak." Slightly higher than Feilai Peak, it stands 1,426 meters above sea level, making it the second highest peak of Tianzhu Mountain. It splits into three parts, connected by two stone slabs—this is the famous "Duoxian Bridge" (Immortal-Crossing Bridge). There’s a saying: “Everyone becomes an immortal upon reaching the bridge.” It’s believed that crossing Duoxian Bridge can make you immortal. On the summit of Tianchi Peak, on a platform of less than 10 square meters, there are two stone pits—one large and one small—called "Tianchi" (Heavenly Pool). It’s no more than a foot deep, but the water is crystal clear. It doesn’t overflow after prolonged rain nor dry up during prolonged drought. Outside Tianchi is a sheer cliff, breathtaking to look at, called the Try-Heart Cliff. The Try-Heart Cliff is the best spot to view the "Tianzhu Mountain Buddha’s Light." If thick fog fills the valley and the bright sun hangs in the azure sky, a seven-colored halo of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet will appear on the white mist. Spotting the "Buddha’s Light" will be your good fortune.

　　Tianzhu Peak

　　Tianzhu Peak, standing at an altitude of 1,489.8 meters, towers majestically above the clouds. Its solitary stone form is ruggedly spectacular, exquisitely beautiful, resembling a pillar, a cone, a torch, a sword, a pavilion, or even a magical brush in full bloom. It has long been praised with the saying: “After seeing the Five Great Mountains, you need not see other peaks; after visiting Huangshan, the Five Great Mountains pale; but after beholding Tianzhu Peak, no other peak compares!” When the great Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai passed by the Yangtze River near Susong and glimpsed the awe-inspiring grandeur of Tianzhu Peak, he burst into song: “A wondrous peak emerges from wondrous clouds, graceful trees exhale refined aura. The lucid heights of Mount Wan tower supreme, surpassing all in satisfying the heart...” Bai Juyi marveled: “Tianzhu Peak alone props up sun and moon; the cave’s gate, a thousand feet high, locks thunder in its cloud.” The Song Dynasty’s Zhu Xi reflected: “It stands firm as Heaven’s single pillar, mightily guarding the east of the cosmos. All speak of Heaven and Earth’s vastness—yet who recognizes the merit of upholding their axis?” The Ming Dynasty’s Li Geng praised: “Lofty stands Tianzhu Peak, towering and piercing the sky... Of all the world’s wondrous mountains, which can rival this one in beauty?”

　　Tianzhu Peak rises abruptly and in solitude, its summit perilously steep—so much so that only local medicinal herb gatherers dare to risk the climb.

　　Tianzhu Peak has many other names:

　　Chaoyang Peak (Sunrise Peak): Towering above surrounding summits, Tianzhu Peak is the first to catch the sun’s first rays as they emerge from the horizon and the last to hold its final light. It enjoys sunlight all day and is bathed in sunshine throughout most of the year. However, due to the frequent fog and cloud cover over the Jianghuai region, the main peak remains hidden in mist roughly half the year.

　　Siming Peak (Lord of Life Peak): As a sacred Taoist mountain, Tianzhu Shan is known as the Fourteenth Grotto-Heaven and the Fifty-Seventh Blessed Land, under the jurisdiction of the Divine Lord of Life. Hence, the main peak is called Siming Peak.

　　Hèjià Peak (Crane Carriage Peak): Ancient records note that every mid-spring (February), thousands of white cranes fly in from the southwest to circle and soar around Tianzhu Peak. This phenomenon is actually due to the seasonal migration of birds as spring returns to the earth.

　　Wǎnbó Jiān (Wan Bo Summit): The Tianzhu Mountain area was historically part of the ancient Wan Kingdom, named after Wan Gong (Bo). Thus, Tianzhu Peak is also known as the summit of Wan Bo Mountain.

　　Sǔnzǐ Jiān (Bamboo Shoot Summit): Named for its shape, the Qing Dynasty traveler Chu Guangqian wrote in his Notes on a Tour of Wan Mountain: “Tianzhu Peak is sharp at the top and full at the base, rugged on all sides, like a spring bamboo shoot breaking through the soil and spreading its sheath.” Visitors can see eight large characters on the cliffs at the summit: “Gūlì Qíngxiāo” (Solitary, Piercing the Clouds) and “Zhōngtiān Yīzhù” (Pillar of Mid-Heaven). Each character is five square feet in size. “Solitary, Piercing the Clouds” was inscribed by Li Yunlin, a general under Zeng Guofan and military commander stationed in Qianshan during the Qing Dynasty, and carved by the herb gatherers He Liangmou and He Liangzuo. “Pillar of Mid-Heaven” was written by Zhang Gan, Deputy Commander of the Fifth War Zone, during his visit to Tianzhu Peak, and carved by He Liangmou’s great-grandson, He Lai Zhao, and He Lai Bin.

　　Cí’ān (Temple of Compassion)

　　Passing Tianchi Peak and before the Character-Respect Pavilion, there was a small temple during the Ming Dynasty called Cí’ān, also known as Duxianqiao Temple. The true name of the presiding monk is not recorded; the locals simply called him Monk Cí’ān. At an altitude of about 1,420 meters, it was the highest temple in the county at the time. Monk Cí’ān lived alone here for 40 years. Travelers, wandering monks, herbalists, and those gathering stone ear fungus would stop here to rest and enjoy a bowl of hot tea. Over time, these visitors would often bring some food to support the monk. In 1621, when heavy snow blanketed Tianzhu Mountain for months, filling even the gorges, people feared that Monk Cí’ān had perished from cold and hunger. When the snow finally melted in early summer of the following year, monks from Foguang Temple visited him. To their surprise, not only was he unharmed, but he looked no different than before. When asked how he survived those snowy months, the monk only smiled without answering. Later, Monk Cí’ān passed away peacefully. Other monks could not endure the harsh life atop the mountain and refused to stay, so the temple fell into disrepair. Today, visitors can still discern the scale and orientation of the temple ruins. On the left are Ming Dynasty stone carvings, over 30 characters in total, though shallowly engraved and now barely legible. People still fondly remember the kind and benevolent Elder Cí’ān.

　　Xīzì Tíng (Character-Respect Pavilion)

　　Built during the Ming Jiajing era, this pavilion served as an auxiliary structure to Cí’ān. Out of respect for the written word and scholars, the ancients would burn discarded manuscripts and used papers in such pavilions—hence the name “Character-Respect Pavilion.”

　　Dìzuò Shí (Emperor’s Throne Stone)

　　As the name suggests, it resembles the throne of an emperor—though in reality made of stone rather than gold or precious wood. Calling it the Emperor’s Throne Stone is simply a reflection of the emperor’s supreme status as the “Son of Heaven,” above all his subjects. The stone enjoys a superior location: stretching from east to west, the Jade Mirror Screen lies to its east; to its south are arrayed peaks such as Dengfeng, Lotus, Hui Shi, Shilou, and Shipin; to its west are Feilai and Xianzhu. Nearby, pine trees and rocks are interspersed with exotic flowers and fragrant plants, filling the valley with aroma. It is truly a heavenly paradise and an earthly wonder. Ancient literati called this scene “The Emperor’s Throne in Penglai.” Modern landscape experts also regard it as one of the finest views on Tianzhu Mountain. Traditionally, on the second day of the second lunar month—the day the dragon raises its head—Tianzhu Mountain would hold a ceremony to close the mountain for logging, and the first ceremonial gong was struck here. “When the copper gong sounds, all under Heaven knows.”

　　Gēbǐ Tái (Pen-Resting Platform)

　　Descending the steps leads you to the Pen-Resting Platform. This spot offers a serene environment and a broad view. Gazing into the distance, you’ll see layers of verdant mountains, drifting mist, and a spiritually profound, distant beauty—best appreciated for its purity. Even if painted in seven colors, captured in vivid imagery, or described with the most eloquent prose, its splendor cannot be fully expressed. The Tang Dynasty poet Cao Song of Shuzhou once praised: “Even the most skilled painters must set down their brushes; no famous painting could ever do it justice.”

　　Jiànxiān Dòng (Sword Immortal Cave)

　　About 30 meters to the left along the path, amidst lush shrubs, lies a cave with a very small entrance—just wide enough for one person to squeeze through sideways. Inside, the cave opens up with a flat bottom. It branches into three passages, with light filtering through crevices in the rocks, adding to its deep and mysterious atmosphere. Taoist tradition holds that this was where the immortal Xu Shen cultivated himself and forged swords. Herb gatherers have found swords inside the cave, left resting on rock ledges. Though rusted along the spine, the blades remain extraordinarily sharp. When one was lifted, it snapped into three pieces and is now preserved in a museum. There are signs of artificial carving inside the cave, and the sandy floor is scattered with numerous ceramic fragments. Cultural experts have determined that apart from a small number of Song and Ming dynasty porcelain pieces, the origins of the other fragments are difficult to trace.

　　Tiānlè Tái (Heavenly Music Platform)

　　On the right side of Tianchi Peak, a massive rock juts out toward Tianzhu Peak—commonly known as the Heavenly Music Platform. The name originates from the Ming Dynasty brothers Liu Ruoshi and Liu Ruozai, natives of Huaining in Anqing. Both achieved success in the imperial examinations and held prestigious government positions. The elder brother, Liu Ruoshi, was multi-talented, especially gifted at playing the seven-stringed guqin. One year, as they returned home in glory, they trekked over the mountains to Tianchi Peak. Encouraged by the crowd, someone said, “Before such splendid landscapes, we must let music enhance the moment.” Not wanting to disappoint, Liu Ruoshi tuned his instrument and began to play and sing. As his clear melodies filled the air, just before he finished the piece, a chorus of heavenly music seemed to respond from above. The crowd looked up to see hundreds, even thousands, of birds of various kinds flying down from Tianzhu Peak, circling and dancing to the music—creating a breathtaking scene of humans and birds singing together under heaven. His younger brother, Liu Ruozai, then carved on the rock: “Mr. Shuangsbi Plays the Qin Toward the Place of Heavenly Music.” Liu Ruoshi’s literary name was Shuangsbi, hence the platform became known as the Heavenly Music Platform.

　　Bàiyuè Tái (Peak-Worshipping Platform)

　　In 106 BC, Emperor Wu of Han, Liu Che, personally visited Mount Wan (Tianzhu Mountain), established a platform for worship, and conferred the title of Southern Sacred Mountain (Nanyue) upon Tianzhu Mountain. Since then, emperors of successive dynasties have sent envoys to Tianzhu Mountain to worship. This circular platform marks the site of the original Peak-Worshipping Platform. Its base symbolizes the round heaven and square earth, with each ring of stones in multiples of nine—symbolizing eternal longevity. The Peak-Worshipping Platform is also called the Echoing Platform, where a call elicits an echo—friends may try it themselves. Descending along the left side of the platform, visitors can explore One-Line Sky and Penglai Peak.

　　Yīnggē Shí (Parrot Stone)

　　Descend 50 meters along the left path, and to the right you’ll see a rock about three meters tall, resembling a parrot looking eastward. Its posture, head, and hooked beak are strikingly lifelike. This is one of Tianzhu Mountain’s unique rocks—Parrot Stone. Legend says the parrot was male, while its mate remained at the foot of the mountain, 20 li away, by the ancient Muyang River. Arriving at the base of Tianzhu Peak, the rock appears split open by a giant axe, with no visible base—commonly called Little Heavenly Gate, or One-Line Sky. The peak itself is no more than 10 meters high, resembling a newly bloomed flower, hence nicknamed “Flower Peak.”

　　Pénglái Fēng (Penglai Peak)

　　To the left along the path, descending the stone steps leads to a peak that is lush, elegant, and round. Look to its southwest, north, and south sides—all sheer cliffs, with ancient pines hanging upside down and clouds swirling wildly, resembling an island paradise. The Ming Dynasty’s Li Geng wrote: “Having climbed halfway, I feel I’m already in Penglai.” Hence, it is named Penglai Peak. From its summit, you can gaze into the distance toward Yingshan in Hubei, and Huoshan and Jinzhai in Anhui, experiencing the magnificent scenery described in Mao Zedong’s poetry: “Dark mountains like the sea, the setting sun like blood.”

　　Liánhuā Fēng New Route

　　The main peak scenic area of Tianzhu Mountain is the most developed among the mountain’s eight major scenic zones. With the successive openings of new routes in Mysterious Valley and Zongguanzhai, it has attracted a large number of tourists. To address the limitation that most visitors only follow the Mysterious Valley–Zongguanzhai loop, and to further expand the touring space and scenic capacity, as well as to showcase the 1.8-billion-year geological evolution of Tianzhu Mountain’s peaks and stones, the Tianzhu Mountain Scenic Area invested 15 million yuan to carefully craft the 2.5-kilometer-long new route from Bàiyuè Tái (Peak-Worshipping Platform) to Liánhuā Fēng (Lotus Peak). This route added nearly 30 new attractions and officially opened to visitors on October 1, 2009.

　　The new route was scientifically planned, starting from Bàiyuè Tái near Tianzhu Peak, passing through Immortal Cave, Azure Dragon Back, and Ascension Peak, then descending from the Lion Play Ball formation—which could previously only be viewed from the East Pass scenic area—all the way to Liandao Lake. The walking trails are situated along mountain ridges, between stacked boulders in rocky valleys, and on steep, precipitous cliffs. They offer views of both existing attractions and the vast sea of pine and bamboo forests on the mountain’s backside, fully displaying the diversity of Tianzhu Mountain’s vegetation. The area’s natural features—towering peaks, peculiar stones, mysterious caves, beautiful waters, and perilous cliffs—are further highlighted. Notably, the construction of cliffside plank walkways marks the first of its kind in the history of Tianzhu Mountain trail development.

　　Sānyuán Shí (Three Yuan Stone)

　　To the east of Tianzhu Peak, three massive, round boulders are stacked and propped against each other. Legend has it that they are the three leftover stones used by Nüwa to mend the heavens, hence the name "Three Yuan Stones." The largest of them, called "Tianyuan Stone," stands independently, piercing the clouds and towering over the surrounding peaks.

　　Cave of Qi Zhi

　　Formerly known as Shimen Cave, also called Immortal’s Cave. It earned the name "Seven People Cave" because Wu Yifeng and six other literati friends pooled money to renovate it. This cave is formed by the stacking of the Three Yuan Stones and consists of two levels, resembling a two-story pavilion. Inside, there are stone tables, stools, beds, and stoves—perfect for resting and cooking. Li Qianzhi, an imperial censor during the reign of Emperor Renzong of the Northern Song Dynasty, once stayed in this cave while visiting Tianzhu and inscribed the six characters "大宋李柬之宿" (Li Qianzhi of the Great Song Dynasty Stayed Here) on the stone wall in front of the cave. Standing at the cave’s entrance and gazing out at the surrounding peaks, one sees a vast expanse of ridges and valleys shrouded in mist. The Tang Dynasty poet Bai Juyi once wrote in praise: “Tianzhu Peak alone holds up the sun and moon; the cave’s mouth, a thousand ren high, locks in the clouds and thunder.”

　　Dancing Maiden Pine · Intertwined Pines

　　Next to the Immortal’s Cave stands a solitary pine with graceful, swaying branches, resembling a slender woman dancing gracefully—hence the name "Dancing Maiden Pine." Behind Buju Pavilion, two pines stand side by side with intertwined branches, forming a bond as inseparable as a couple—thus named "Intertwined Pines." The "Dancing Maiden Pine" and "Intertwined Pines" each have their own unique charm, complementing each other beautifully.

　　Green Dragon’s Back

　　After passing the Intertwined Pines, you’ll suddenly see a huge, narrow, steep cliff ridge to the left of the path. It resembles a green dragon lying prone and is commonly known as the Green Dragon’s Back, also called the Crucian Carp’s Back. From a distance, it looks like a giant lying on its back with its belly exposed to the sky, hence it’s also called "Belly-Up Stone."

　　Standing on the "Green Dragon’s Back" and looking south, you’ll see Tianshi Peak and Fupen Peak in the distance, standing tall in front. Lotus Peak rises like a blue lotus flower among them. Below your feet, the Liandan Lake lies still like a mirror, nestled in the valley between Lotus Peak and Hui Shi Peak. To the west, Feilai Peak is faintly visible. Behind you, Tianzhu Peak towers like a colossal pillar above the surrounding mountains, majestic and imposing. Gazing into the distance, the layered mountain ranges resemble a watercolor painting of varying shades stacked against the horizon. The Qianshui and Wanhe rivers, one to the left and one to the right, flow like two shimmering silver ribbons around the mountain base, heading eastward into the distance, merging into the blue sky...

　　Dragon-Walking Gorge

　　Now we’ve entered the Dragon-Walking Gorge. This gorge is deep and serene, with bizarre rocks scattered everywhere. The continuous, undulating rocky mountains look majestic and serpentine, hence the name. The Dragon-Walking Gorge is the best spot on the new route to admire the strange rocks of Tianzhu Mountain.

　　Competing Beauty Platform

　　Tianzhu Mountain is a green plant treasure trove, home to over 1,650 species of wild plants, with an exceptionally pristine ecological environment. From this platform, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the back mountain scenic area and the Longtan River scenic area. Leaning on the railing and looking out, you’ll see rolling mountain ranges, lush vegetation, and soft, unique lines. From the foot of the mountain upward, there’s a vertical zonation of plant communities. Exotic trees compete in beauty, green foliage flourishes, and mountain flowers bloom brilliantly, creating a scene as if ink and color were splashed across the landscape—all within sight. The Tang Dynasty poet Bai Juyi once praised in a poem: “Jade-like white tangerines and fragrant osmanthus compete in beauty; golden and emerald lotus blossoms vie to bloom.” Hence, this platform is named the "Competing Beauty Platform."

　　Toad Stone

　　Formed from Yanshan-period granite through geological processes such as near-horizontal joints and spherical weathering, it strikingly resembles a toad (commonly known as a "warty toad").

　　Heavenly Screen Rock · Sky-Kissing Bird · Sky-Sipping Stone

　　Past the Toad Stone, bizarre rocks rise one after another, displaying countless forms. To the right of the walking path, there’s a flat, square, and neatly shaped cliff face that strikingly resembles a natural screen—hence the name "Heavenly Screen Rock." It also looks like a massive heavenly stele, recounting the illustrious and storied human history of Tianzhu Mountain to passersby.

　　To the right of the "Heavenly Screen Rock" is a small, sharp, and towering rock that resembles a divine bird with its beak pointed skyward, calling out vividly and lifelike—thus named the "Sky-Kissing Bird."

　　Yin-Qing Divide

　　Exiting the Dragon-Walking Gorge, the mountain terrain winds around, and the clouds flicker in and out of view. On clear days, the peaks on either side of the valley may be bathed in brilliant sunlight or shrouded in shadow. Change your angle, and the scene transforms—each ridge offers a different world. With every rise in elevation, you enter a new realm, where clouds and sunlight shift magically. The Northern Song Dynasty poet Huang Tingjian wrote in his poem "Inscription on Qianshan": “Clouds pierce the sky, then break apart; halfway up the ridge, sunlight and shadow divide.”

　　Green Dragon Pavilion

　　Invested in by the Anhui Branch of China Merchants Bank, designed by Mr. Chen Jihong of the Anhui Urban and Rural Planning and Design Institute, and constructed by the Tianzhu Mountain Management Committee, it was completed in November 1995. This pavilion is entirely made of stone, covering an area of 49.5 square meters, with 12 stone pillars. The middle section features a sloped pavilion roof, while the ends are open-air eaves. Among stone constructions, it’s uniquely graceful. The structure sits elegantly on a stone foundation, harmonizing beautifully with the surrounding peaks and forests.

　　Hidden Dragon Cave

　　A canyon landscape formed by geological activities such as faults and joints. Towering cliffs rise sharply on both sides, dark and damp, covered in moss. A narrow slit in the middle resembles a dragon entering its palace. The walking path spirals down 102 stone steps, twisting and turning, weaving through caves and crevices.

　　Alternating between light and shadow, it feels like a hidden world. A sliver of daylight shines from the top of the valley, where swaying pine shadows, misty haze, and rising fog envelop visitors, making them feel as if they’ve stepped into a secluded paradise. The Tang Dynasty poet Cao Song wrote: “The moon follows the river as it turns along the cliff; monks and dragons sleep together in the cave.”

　　Immortal’s Villa

　　A solitary peak rises abruptly, covered with a pine forest. Beside the woods, massive rocks stand firmly in rows, resembling an exquisitely crafted gable-roof cottage. Sometimes it hides and reveals itself amid the mist, like a celestial palace; other times it shines brilliantly under the blue sky, resembling a heavenly tower. This is another clever scenic wonder of Tianzhu Mountain—the "Immortal’s Villa."

　　Step-on-Cloud Bridge · Seal-Hanging Stone

　　The Step-on-Cloud Bridge is 18.2 meters long, delicate and elegant, simple and pristine. Standing on the bridge, looking around, you might see clouds spread out flat like a white jade surface, or wispy clouds drifting with the wind, rippling like lake waves. Walking across the bridge gives you the feeling of "floating down from the heavens, as if the Milky Way is a ribbon with white waves flying."

　　Ahead, on a perilous cliff, a square, solid stone stands alone beside the cliff, strikingly resembling a hanging official seal—hence the name "Seal-Hanging Stone."

　　Ten Thousand Tablets Facing Heaven

　　The West Pass Group of peaks, centered around the Heavenly Pillar Peak, are composed of Early Cretaceous granite formed 128 million years ago, shaped by geological forces such as jointing, faulting, water flow, and weathering. Additionally, numerous columnar or block-like rock formations created by differential weathering and collapse are scattered throughout, resembling the ceremonial tablets held by ancient court officials when meeting the emperor—hence the name "Ten Thousand Tablets Facing Heaven."

　　Cangying Platform

　　Standing atop Cangying Platform and looking out in all directions, the vast mountain ranges of the Dabie Mountains stretch as far as the eye can see, a boundless expanse of green. At dawn, as the morning stars gradually fade and the first light of day bathes the peaks, the mountains appear in layers of varying shades. Before you know it, the fiery red sun rises, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the lush valleys—an overwhelming sight. As the sun begins to set

　　Xiguan Fort

　　In the late Southern Song Dynasty, the beleaguered Southern Song court relocated to Fujian and Zhejiang, unable to reclaim the Central Plains, leading to the fall of most northern regions. After Yuan Mongol forces advanced into the Jianghuai area, Song loyalists and civilians retreated to the Dabie and Tianzhu Mountains. The exiled Southern Song court in Hangzhou sought to preserve its strength for future recovery. Thus, it called on northern civilians and soldiers to build mountain strongholds for self-defense. Liu Yuan, known for his "generosity, sense of justice, bravery, and strategic wisdom," was elected as the leader of the volunteer army by the Qianshan civilians and responded first. In 1265 (the first year of the Xianchun era of the Song Dynasty), he constructed a mountain fort at Tianzhu, gathered people, resisted the Yuan, and fought to restore the Song for 18 years. Later, betrayed by an insider, Liu Yuan was defeated and committed suicide. The Yuan troops took his head, while his real body was buried under the Hundred Flowers Cliff.

　　The Tianzhu Mountain area features perilous terrain with overlapping forts—ideal for both offense and defense, making it a historically contested military stronghold. Since the Zhou and Qin dynasties, wars and upheavals have been frequent and well-documented. Aside from Liu Yuan’s resistance against the Yuan, several other significant military events occurred here.

　　Panlong Pine

　　Outside the fort wall, a pine with short, thick, and dense needles sports a flat crown, its roots twisted around the rocks as it stands proudly. Look—its exposed roots resemble dragon claws coiling upward, strikingly lifelike. This reinforces our belief that Xiguan Fort, far from the clamor of war, is truly a dragon-coiled, tiger-crouching stronghold.

　　Dengxian Peak

　　Bordered by the Liandan Lake to the west and connected to Linjiao Peak to the east, this peak stands at 1,152 meters above sea level. One of the "Ten Scenic Spots of Qianyang," "Dan Stove Blue Mist," lies to its west. Legend has it that during the late Eastern Han Dynasty, Zuo Ci struggled to refine an elixir of immortality at both Lower and Middle Dan Stoves but failed. Later, he secluded himself at Liangyao Flat and finally succeeded, then ascended to immortality at Dengxian Peak, hence its name. After rain clears, the peaks and valleys are shrouded in misty vapors, resembling wisps of blue smoke when viewed from afar. Atop the peak, there’s an observation platform to the east, and it faces Hui’ershi Peak to the west, with Liandan Lake below. The interplay of mountain light, water, mist, and clouds creates a dreamlike fairyland. Late Ming dynasty’s Shi Kefa once climbed this peak and marveled at its wonder. Ming dynasty’s Anqing prefect Hu Zuozong wrote: "Had I not scaled the highest peak, how could I know the height of Wan Mountains? Above the layered skies, I am but a feather on the rivers and lakes."

　　Lotus Peak

　　A conical peak composed of medium-grained monzonitic granite, standing at 1,306 meters above sea level. The summit’s massive rock splits vertically like petals, resembling lotuses in full bloom. Beside it, a smaller rock juts sharply, like a lotus bud emerging from water—with both flower and bud, a delightful sight. Lotus Peak has a natural cave called Lotus Cave, which can accommodate dozens of people. A hole on the southern wall acts like a window, offering views of the surrounding peaks. In 2009, a plank walkway was built along the cliff face of Lotus Peak, exceptionally perilous and resembling a "jade ribbon encircling a lotus" when viewed from afar, forming one of Tianzhu Mountain’s most stunning landscapes.

　　Standing on the plank walkway, leaning on the railing, one gazes upon thousands of layers of emerald valleys and yawning abysses, with steep cliffs crafted by nature. Peering over the edge induces dizziness, yet the bold may shout with joy, feeling uplifted; the timid glance around nervously, unable to move an inch. Clouds rise from beneath one’s feet, the wind caresses mortal skin, and the peak appears bright upon arrival, only to become an isolated island upon departure.

　　Seven-Star Pool

　　The connecting section of the plank walkway between Dengxian Peak and Lotus Peak features a flat, expansive area with extraordinary scenery. Millennium-old pines grow flat against the ground, fish-scale trees cast shade, and green vines twine around cliffs and ridges—it’s practically a natural botanical garden.

　　To the right of the path lies a stone platform over ten square feet, with seven small, round pools arranged like the Big Dipper, named Seven-Star Pool. Legend says it’s where seven celestial maidens once washed.

　　Lotus Terrace

　　A natural terrace located between Lotus Peak and Dagufeng. Dagufeng is a ridgeline peak standing at 1,290 meters, with a round summit rock like a drum, towering in the air, called "Immortal Drum Rock," or commonly "Stone Drum." Facing the "Drumstick Rock" on the opposite mountain, they form the natural scene of "Immortals Beating Drums." Both Drumstick Rock and Immortal Drum Rock result from columnar and spherical weathering of granite. Viewed from Dongguan, the Stone Drum resembles a ball, flanked by two perilous rocks like a pair of fierce lions—a vivid "Two Lions Playing with a Ball." On the terrace’s north side, a massive rock forms a gate-like opening, with mist rising. Amid the stone walls grows a bizarre rock resembling the ancient mythical beast Taotie (tāotiè), seemingly devouring.

　　Pine-Stone Bond

　　At Tianzhu Mountain, "there are pines everywhere, pines on every rock, and every pine is unique." Look—the ancient pine behind Dagufeng boasts lush needles and a graceful form, beside which a uniquely shaped rock emerges from the earth. Together, the pine and rock compose an ethereal, harmonious "Pine-Stone Painting," rich in Zen charm and wild beauty.

　　Nanshan Eight-Trigram Array

　　Descending from Huadian Peak, the mountain path gradually flattens. Look to our front left—oddly stacked rocks, chaotic yet orderly, disorient travelers, with nine out of ten losing their way and struggling to exit. Qing dynasty’s Tongcheng literary school pioneer Dai Mingshi referred to Tianzhu Mountain as "Nanshan" in his *Nanshan Collection*, hence this area is named "Nanshan Eight-Trigram Array."

　　Xianquan Rock · Yueyun Mountain House

　　About a li down from Xiguan Fort, at the foot of Lotus Peak, the distant view shows Lotus Peak like a budding lotus, unfurling a petal southwestward; up close, a lone rock hangs, marked by four rain-worn grooves, resembling a clenched fist, commonly called Xianquan Rock. Beneath Xianquan Rock lie the ruins of two terraces, once Yueyun House, built by Wu Yifeng, a renowned scholar from Shandong and later a professor at Anqing Normal College. Wu arrived at Tianzhu in 1937, fled to Sichuan in 1938 due to the Japanese invasion, returned to Qianshan in 1942 after a marital breakup, and stayed at Foguang Temple. In his own words: "Bathed in the beauty of mountain mists, I grew even fonder of Tianzhu." However, he found the 40-plus-li journey to Tianzhu rugged, with no rest stops or food supplies, making travel exhausting. In autumn 1942, Wu’s friend Zhang Fazhai from Guilin visited Tianzhu, marveling at its splendor. Wu proposed building a house and road under Xianquan Rock. Zhang readily agreed, and others supported the idea. Wu was tasked with overseeing construction, and two months later, a four-room house (one main room with three wings) was completed, named Yueyun Mountain House. Surplus funds built 2,400 stone steps from Liangyao Flat to Baiyue Platform. Travelers now had lodging for 2–3 day trips. Though damaged over decades of war, the foundations and scattered bricks remain. A large rock nearby, called Shuaiyin Rock, now holds Yueyun Pavilion.

　　Here, Wu recounted a true story: after Yueyun House was built, a young monk surnamed Xu from Huaining was hired to manage it. One snowy year, the monk carried grain back up the mountain, only to find two tigers guarding the door. He screamed and tumbled down the cliff in panic. The tigers slowly left upon seeing him. Locked inside, he dared not exit, yet the tigers watched the house from across the Yaoyao Platform hill for days without disturbing him. Locals claimed the tigers understood human nature, guarding Wu’s home.

　　Five-Finger Peak

　　The summit features five rocks aligned vertically, varying in height, like a giant’s straight fingers piercing the clouds. With steep terrain and perpetual mist, sunrise and sunset bathe the peaks in golden light, enhancing their grandeur. This is one of Tianzhu Mountain’s marvels—"Five-Finger Peak."

　　Liandan Lake

　　"Liandan Lake" spans 34 mu (about 5.6 acres), holds 80,000 cubic meters of water, with a 13-meter dam at 1,162 meters above sea level. Among China’s famed mountains, it rivals Xinjiang’s "Heavenly Lake" and Changbai Mountain’s "Heavenly Lake." Its crystal-clear, jade-green waters are surrounded by peaks, creating an elegant setting. On calm, sunny days, the lake mirrors the sky and clouds; surrounding cliffs and pines cast reflections like embroidered brocades, bringing the still surface to life. Gentle breezes ripple the water, sparkling brilliantly—a scene akin to drifting into a heavenly pool.

　　Originally, Liandan Lake’s bed was "Liangyao Flat," the site of Zuo Ci’s "Upper Dan Stove." The famed Taoist Zuo Ci refined elixirs here during the late Eastern Han Dynasty, giving the lake its name. Nearby are the former "Dan Stove House" where Zuo Ci lived and the "Dan Stove Platform." After rain clears, wisps of smoke often rise from the forest, shifting mysteriously like vapors from an immortal’s furnace. Ancients called this "Dan Stove Blue Mist," listing it among the "Ten Scenic Spots of Qianyang." Ming poet Lu Gui wrote: "A wisp of blue smoke drifts from the vines, carrying the essence of golden pills." Another Ming poet, Luo Zhuang, praised: "The immortal refined pills into elixirs, then vanished on a fiery chariot. The stove’s smoke lingers, eternally marking these sacred peaks."

　　Standing by the lakeside and looking around, the peaks of Xi Guan stand vividly in sight, as if they had just flown and fallen from the sky. The precious moon hangs like a piece of tin, with a pearl seemingly about to drop. The Heavenly Pillar Peak looms ahead. To the left rises the Hui Shi Peak, to the right stretches the Qing Long Back, while peaks such as Deng Xian, Da Gu, and Da Gu lie to its east, and peaks like Lin Jiao, Fu Pen, and Ying Zhen stand to its south. Whether viewed from afar or nearby, one can take in all the scenic splendors of the Heavenly Pillar Mountain.

　　Following the flagstone trail along the Liandan Lake and circling halfway around, then turning left eastward after passing the dam, we can head to the newly developed Longtan River Scenic Area of Tianzhu Mountain, or proceed along the Ying Zhen Peak route to admire the beauty of the Dong Guan peaks and the majesty of the Xi Guan peaks.

　　Hui Shi Peak

　　In the southwest of Liandan Lake lies a mountain peak that is half earth and half stone, neither too plump nor too lean, with an elevation of 1142 meters. It faces Deng Xian Peak across the lake, and the large rock on its summit resembles a reclining lion looking back, hence it is called Hui Shi Peak, also known as the "Turning-Head Lion Rock." The location of Hui Shi Peak is quite unique. It sits precisely at the center of the last barrier of Tianzhu Mountain—the ring-shaped mountain. Observe carefully: a continuous ridge winds from west to north and then turns east in a circular formation, yet when viewed from the southeast, it appears as a series of isolated, striking peaks. This echoes what Su Dongpo said of Mount Lu: "Viewed horizontally, a range; viewed vertically, a peak," expressing the same concept of a mountain’s multifaceted beauty. Due to Hui Shi Peak's special position, one can hear the faint whispers from West Yue Ya Feng to the west, Tian Chi Feng to the north, and even Deng Xian Feng to the east. Similarly, slight sounds from Hui Shi Peak can be clearly heard by visitors on surrounding peaks. Some guests have suggested building a pavilion on Hui Shi Peak’s summit, naming it Da Guan (Grand View). To its left is the Shen Mao Bu Shu Rock—look, that mouse is even bigger than the cat!

　　Hua Mei Ling

　　Heading east from Liandan Lake to Xian Ren Chuang, then turning south onto the new Ying Zhen Path, a 2-kilometer walk leads to the Tianzhu Mountain cable car station. Along the way, you’ll encounter peaks like Shi Niu Feng, Ying Zhen Feng, Fo Zi Feng, Fei Hu Feng, and Dan Sha Feng; peculiar rocks such as Fei Hu Shi, Zu Sun Le, Lan Xiong Shai Tai Yang, Zhan Yan Kan Shi Jie, and Wu Zi Bei; as well as caves like Xu Mei and Jin Guo. The path is lined with ancient pines and massive rocks. Among them, Ying Zhen Feng is the most spiritually elegant, while Fei Hu Shi is the most unusual. To the east lies Hua Mei Ling, where streams crisscross, wild trees thrive, and the area borders the lake—various birds often nest here. Especially on clear mornings, the singing of larks, thrushes, and pheasants fills the valley with pleasant melodies, hence the name Hua Mei Ling. From Hua Mei Ling to Guan Ri Tai, descending via Xia Ma Gang, you can reach the Longtan River Scenic Area.

　　Lin Jiao Feng

　　Ascending Hua Mei Ling, you’ll first see a huge rock resembling a tortoise stretching its neck—commonly known as Lin Jiao Feng. To the south, a small path leads down to Dao Shi Ya, and opposite stands a round, upside-down stone peak called Fu Pen Feng, also known as Tuan Bao Zhai, built by Zhou Juan, a general under Liu Yuan in the late Song Dynasty. To the left is Shi Han Feng. This area features deep valleys and complex rocky landscapes, making it a sight to behold but not easily accessible.

　　Ying Zhen Feng

　　Ying Zhen Feng, with an elevation of 1109 meters, is entirely made of rugged stone, featuring steep cliffs on all sides. The entire peak spirals upward, with its summit rocks arranged in a way that forms natural caves. Taoists believe this is where the Divine Life Lord is welcomed, hence the name. Legend has it that in the final years of the Southern Song Dynasty, when Liu Yuan and his followers resisted the Yuan invaders, 18 newlywed women, after their husbands died in battle, held the peak against the Yuan army and chose death over surrender, ultimately perishing together. Another tale tells of a widow who carried a dou (ancient measure) of rice to the peak and never descended again. The peak is often shrouded in cooking smoke, leading to its nickname, Gu Fu Zhai (Widow’s Fort).

　　Whenever the rain clears and clouds disperse, the rocky skeleton of Ying Zhen Feng emerges in a bluish hue, resembling a maiden combing her hair with high-draped curls—an exquisitely graceful sight. Among the crevices, uniquely shaped pines hang upside down from the cliffs, and perilous paths lead to the summit. Once atop, one can gaze southeast to see the Subterranean River like a silk ribbon and the Wan River like a belt, with vast skies and open land. On clear days, the Zhenfeng Pagoda of Yingjiang Temple in Anqing can be faintly discerned. Historically, this peak has been hailed as the "Colossal Peak of the Mid-Mountain."

　　Dong Guan

　　Having explored the Xi Guan Scenic Area, we now enter the Dong Guan Scenic Area. Here, the peaks are towering and stand opposite one another without connecting, with elevations generally above 1100 meters. The valleys are deep and serene, the cliffs steep, and the relative height differences span hundreds of meters.

　　An Ji Tan

　　On this flat ground of An Ji Tan stand two large peculiar rocks. Look at them—they are square and upright, with spacious tops featuring a central ridge like a spine, their southern edges tilting forward, resembling a house. Ming Dynasty’s Xu Gui once wrote a poem about them: “Qi arises from true essence, forming a round Taiji vortex. The curtain opens to reveal layered mountains, and the house is built upon lofty stones.” The other peculiar rock is this Ying Ge Shi (Parrot Rock). It is said to be a female parrot, while the one on Qian Zhen Cliff in front of Tianzhu Peak is the male. They call and respond to each other in delightful harmony.

　　Mu Yang He

　　What is now An Ji Tan was originally the Mu Yang An (Sheep-Herding Nunnery), which derived its name from the Mu Yang He (Sheep-Herding River).

　　This clear stream is the Mu Yang He. Legend has it that in ancient times, a young Song Dynasty Taoist, who lost his parents as a child, herded sheep for a wealthy man on Tianzhu Mountain. One day, the sheep went missing, and the other herders didn’t know what to do. The Taoist, only thirteen at the time, ventured alone into the deep mountains to search for the sheep. After three days, he encountered an old monk sitting cross-legged with eyes closed inside a stone cave, surrounded by desolate wilderness. The monk had yellow fur over an inch long on his face. The Taoist knew this was no ordinary person, so he knelt before him and explained how he’d lost the sheep and couldn’t find them. The old monk opened his eyes and said, “Your sheep are still there, but you won’t get them until the Mid-Autumn Festival. Go back now.” The Taoist returned and told his fellow herders. When the Mid-Autumn Festival came, they went together and indeed found the sheep, which had even increased by four or five hundred. Today, one can still see the large stone inscribed with the four characters “Gu Mu Yang He” (Ancient Sheep-Herding River).

　　Que Qiao

　　A marvel of Tianzhu Mountain—Que Qiao (Magpie Bridge). It extends out from the eastern cliff face, rising five or six meters high, then arches and slopes downward to the peak below, hanging in midair like a bridge. Below the bridge lies a yawning chasm thousands of feet deep, inspiring awe. The Dong Guan area is where mist and clouds gather and disperse. At dawn and dusk, when the clouds surge and the fog rushes forth, passing beneath Que Qiao truly evokes the feeling of “crossing the Milky Way in secret.”

　　Da Tian Men

　　Da Tian Men, commonly known as "Jian Zi Cha" (Scissors Fork), has Fu Pen Feng to its west, standing 1150 meters above sea level. On the southwestern side of its summit lies a round, flat boulder, about ten meters in diameter, resembling an inverted stone basin on the peak, called Fu Pen Shi, or colloquially Tuan Bao Shi. To the east of Da Tian Men is Tian Shi Feng, standing 1186 meters tall. On its western cliff face, there is a man-made stone stairway leading to the summit. The summit features a massive rock resembling a lion, majestic and upright, called Tian Shi Shi. On the southwestern cliff, a slender, flat rock protrudes over a meter long, resembling a sparrow’s tongue, hence named Que She Shi. Between the two peaks, a narrow gap in the middle resembles a grand gate or celestial portal—this is the origin of the name Da Tian Men (Great Heavenly Gate). With Fu Pen covering its left and Tian Shi guarding its right, it can truly be called impregnable.

　　Tian Shi Feng

　　Climbing to the summit of Tian Shi Feng and looking west, Fu Pen Feng and Ying Zhen Feng stand opposite each other. Gazing northwest, Fei Lai Feng and Tianzhu Feng seem to beckon from afar. Looking north, Shi Han Feng and Cui Hua Feng echo each other, with Gu Chui Shi and Yan Qu Shi fully visible. Surveying the east, Shao Shi Feng resembles a gentle little lion nestled beside its elder. Overlooking the southeast, a myriad of peaks compete in beauty, valleys shine in splendor, the land is vast, and the skies are high—a truly uplifting sight.

　　Qian Zhang Ya

　　Exiting Da Tian Men to the north, a mountain peak stretches across the view—Qian Zhang Ya. To its left is Shi Han Feng. Shi Han Feng, standing 1046 meters above sea level, is the lowest-elevation peak among the Dong Guan peaks. Its summit is lush and green, shaded by dense forests. Ancient records state: “Within the sheer cliffs of Wan Shan, there lies a stone casket embedded in the rock wall, gleaming brilliantly.” Hence the name Shi Han Feng. The southern cliff face of Qian Zhang Ya is precipitously suspended, with a deep chasm thousands of feet deep, dark and glossy, where not even birds nest. The cliff is covered in Shi Er (a type of edible fungus). Thus, herbalists often hang ropes here to harvest it. If you’re lucky enough to witness their cliff-climbing skills, your eyes will be opened wide.

　　Yang Guang San Die

　　Above the peak and below the cliffs, beautiful trees vie in uniqueness, while flowers bloom thickly in the valleys. This valley is called “Ji Cui Gu” (Accumulated Emerald Valley). In early spring, the azaleas of the Dong Guan peaks bloom in succession, like red clouds or patches of morning glow, reddening the peaks and filling the valleys. A small stream meanders through the valley, called “Dong Guan Jian” (Dong Guan Stream). The stream flows eastward into Wan Jian and then into Wan Shui. The “Dong Guan Yan Yun” (Dong Guan Mist) of the eastern Tianzhu Mountain originates from this valley. Here, peaks rise in succession, valleys twist and turn, verdant forests thrive, and stream waterfalls cascade—it is a place where mist and clouds frequently emerge. At dawn and dusk, the mist billows forth from Qian Zhang Ya.

　　Xian Ren Da Gu · Yan Yu Shi

　　Standalone and tapering from bottom to top, it is called “Gu Chui Shi” (Drumstick Rock). To its northwest, atop Gu Drum Feng, lies a large, round rock resembling a spherical drum, called “Xian Gu Shi” (Immortal Drum Rock), commonly known as Shi Gu. Together with Gu Chui Shi, they form a scenic combination known as “Xian Ren Da Gu” (Immortals Beating Drums). Both Gu Chui Shi and Xian Gu Shi are masterpieces of nature’s craftsmanship. The most miraculous is the Yan Yu Shi (Slug-Like Rock) beneath the southeastern cliff of Gu Drum Feng. It is a marvel among Tianzhu Mountain’s peculiar rocks. Two small stone pillars extend from the cliff’s edge, resembling a pair of antennae searching for a path. Legend says that if either of these antennae grows taller, the Thunder God will strike it down to match the other. Yan Yu Shi gives a strong impression of wriggling uphill—truly lifelike and astounding.

　　Sun Viewing Platform

　　The "Sun Viewing Platform" is a great spot to enjoy the scenery of the Eastern Ridge peaks. To the east rise the lush and elegant peaks, among which Cuihua Peak reigns as the most prominent of the Eastern Ridge range. With an elevation of 1,120 meters, it towers majestically above the others, rugged and steep. At its summit, ancient pines twist and turn, while the cliffs are lined with verdant hues and overgrown with thorny vines. In spring, rare trees compete in beauty, and mountain flowers bloom in riotous colors, creating a breathtaking view like a splash of ink painting. This is also the best place to watch the sunrise over Tianzhu Mountain.