Longhai Mountain in Luliang County, Qujing
Overview
Longhai Mountain (龙海山, Lónghǎi Shān) is situated in the eastern part of Luliang County (陆良县, Lùliáng Xiàn), belonging to the southern extension of the Wumeng Mountain Range (乌蒙山脉, Wūméng Shānmài). It is acclaimed as the crown among the mountains in the county, with a network of rugged peaks and cliffs that form a picturesque mountainous landscape.
Historical Significance
Longhai Mountain is historically known as Qiuxiong Mountain (邱雄山, Qiūxióng Shān). The “Luliang County Chronicle” (《陆良县志》, Lùliáng Xiàn Zhì) states: “Qiuxiong Mountain is located thirty miles east of the administrative center, anciently known as Zixi (紫溪, Zǐxī), also called Kuangrong (狂容, Kuángróng), popularly referred to as Longhai, majestic and towering; it stands as the crown among all mountains. At the peak, there is a square pond with water as green as jade. Halfway up the mountain lies an ancient temple, and at its foot, there are eighteen springs, serving as the town’s protective spirit.” Legend has it that the mountain was named after a local land official named Longhai during the late Yuan Dynasty.
Scenic Attractions
“Longhai Clear Mist” (龙海晴岚, Lónghǎi Qínglán) is one of the notable sights in Luliang. The “Luliang County Chronicle” mentions that this scenic route spans 55 kilometers and includes the Thousand Buddha Pagoda (千佛塔, Qiān Fó Tǎ), which is the political, economic, and cultural center of the county. This area features Buddhist architecture like Dajue Temple (大觉寺, Dàjué Sì) and the Thousand Buddha Pagoda, along with the Panjiang River (盘江河, Pánjiāng Hé) and Dugong River (杜公河, Dùgōng Hé). These elements blend seamlessly with parks and scenic buildings, complemented by vast orchards, camellias at Puji Temple (普济寺, Pǔjì Sì), the Qing Mountain Martyrs’ Cemetery (青山烈士陵园, Qīngshān Lièshì Língyuán), and fishing with eagle boats, creating a harmonious mix of natural and cultural beauty—an ideal destination for recreation, sightseeing, relaxation, entertainment, and shopping.
Cultural Heritage
Longhai Mountain, formerly known as Qiuxiong Mountain, is steeped in history. Records from the late Ming and early Qing dynasties mention that during the Hongwu era, a descendant of the Yuan Dynasty, the Liang King, resisted the Ming Dynasty in Yunnan, even killing an envoy sent by Zhu Yuanzhang to persuade him to surrender. In response, Zhu dispatched an army to quell the rebellion. The last prince of the “King of Yunnan” in Luliang, Tiemuer (贴木尔, Tiēmù’ěr), was appointed governor of Luliang, given the surname Long, which has been passed down through generations. After Tiemuer’s death, his son Longfeng (龙凤, Lóngfèng) inherited the position, followed by his grandson Longhai. The local land official Longhai was thereafter named Longhai Mountain.
Landmark Feature
At the summit of Longhai Mountain, the inscription “Long Live the Communist Party” (共产党万岁, Gòngchǎndǎng Wànsuì) is prominently displayed and visible from within the region. This inscription serves as a memory for several generations of Luliang residents and has become a local landmark. In 1971, the Sancha River Commune (三岔河公社, Sānchàhé Gōngshè) initiated this project, with teacher Li Zihua (李自华, Lǐ Zìhuá) leading the survey. The characters were inscribed in Song typeface on art paper, and their dimensions were calculated based on the area of the mountain. Students and teachers from Luliang County No. 3 Middle School and 24 primary schools in Sancha River collaborated to lay out the stones. Each character measures 60 meters in length and width, covering a total area of over 32,000 square meters. This slogan resonates with the voices of the people, reflecting the deep affection of the Luliang residents for their party and country, as well as their pioneering spirit and courage to forge ahead.
How to Get There (Transportation)
To reach Longhai Mountain in Luliang County, you can take a bus from Qujing (曲靖, Qūjìng) to Luliang County. From the county center, local transportation options such as taxis or shared rides can take you directly to the mountain. If you prefer to drive, follow the main highways leading into Luliang County, where signage will guide you to the mountain area.
Travel Tips for Longhai Mountain
- Best Time to Visit: The best seasons to visit Longhai Mountain are spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant.
- Photography: Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and the famous “Long Live the Communist Party” inscription.
- Hiking Gear: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water, as some trails can be steep and challenging.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the chance to try local dishes at nearby eateries for an authentic culinary experience.
- Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth insights into the history and culture of the area.
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