"Fair, fair," cry the ospreys on the island in the river"—this line from the Classic of Poetry is surely familiar to many. Have you ever taken the time to seek out the scenic beauty and romance described in these verses? Today, we’ll take you to Wuyuezhai to experience the picturesque scenery and poetic ambiance mentioned in the poem. Wuyuezhai is named for embodying the characteristics of China’s Five Great Mountains, and is a national 4A-level tourist attraction. In summer, the air is fresh, making it a perfect summer retreat.
The Yan-Zhao First Waterfall in Wuyuezhai is the largest waterfall in North China, with abundant water flow all year round and a drop of 110 meters. Like a white silk ribbon cascading from the sky, its roar can be heard for miles. Even standing 100 meters away, you can feel the fine mist of rain and the cool, refreshing spray. The water volume in Wuyuezhai is consistently plentiful—not just the waterfall, but the streams also flow year-round. Among the more famous is the Wǔqǔ Stream (Five-Bend Stream), which features five dragon pools, serene in appearance, with sweet, crystal-clear water. In addition to the Yan-Zhao First Waterfall, Wuyuezhai has over 20 other waterfalls and stream pools, making it a place where water and natural beauty abound everywhere. Attractions like the Waterfall Viewing Pavilion and the Iron Chain Bridge also add to the enjoyment of your visit.
The Mandarin Duck Stones near the birch forest are another scenic highlight. These two massive rocks lean against each other affectionately, vividly lifelike. The Mandarin Duck Stones are also associated with a myth of everlasting love, attracting countless visitors to stop and admire. The feathers on the rocks are delicately outlined, as if the ducks might come to life at any moment. Couples who make promises in front of the Mandarin Duck Stones are said to receive the ducks’ blessing for a lifetime of love and togetherness—choosing love over immortality.
The alpine meadow is also a great spot for sightseeing. Located in the Tuoliang scenic area, visitors can ride horses freely across the grassland. Lush green grass and colorful wildflowers stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a breathtaking panoramic view. The endless sea of green, coupled with seemingly touchable white clouds and misty surroundings, creates a peaceful and idyllic natural scene.
The skies over Wuyuezhai also offer spectacular sights—the sunrise, sunset, icefalls, and snowy landscapes are all straight out of a fairy tale. Snow can still fall on Wuyue Mountain as late as May, and ice often remains year-round. Amid blooming flowers and green trees, the silver ice and jade-like snow create a true northern Chinese landscape. The mountain paths are not difficult to climb, making it easy to ascend even with elders in tow—an ideal place for leisure and a great destination for families. Of course, there are also some steep peaks that require a bit of stamina. If climbing is too challenging, you can take a cable car, which is very convenient.
Dining and staying in Wuyuezhai is definitely a delightful experience. Enjoy farm-fresh chicken eggs, potstickers, and other local snacks, sample wild mountain ferns, daylilies, and boiled fish. The vegetables and fish nurtured by Wuyuezhai’s pristine mountains and waters are all delicious and flavorful, leaving visitors reluctant to leave. The taste and memories here will stay with you forever.
Visitors to Wuyuezhai often say the mountains are beautiful, the water is clear, and the people are kind. Laden with ancient legends, this is also an important pilgrimage route for Buddhists heading to Mount Wutai, rich in cultural heritage. For those who love lush greenery, the air here is incredibly refreshing and uplifting without needing to do much at all. Don’t wait any longer—take advantage of the 2014 National Day holiday to escape the heat and relax in Wuyuezhai.
For transportation routes and holiday notices, please visit the official website of Wuyuezhai: www.wuyuezhai.com.