Wufeng Mountain in Luliang County, Qujing
Wufeng Mountain is located in the MaJie Town (马街镇) of Luliang County (陆良县), Qujing City (曲靖市), Yunnan Province (云南省), with a highest elevation of 2,339 meters (7,674 feet) and an average elevation around 2,000 meters (6,561 feet). It forms a crescent-shaped ring with the southern slopes of Zhongnan Mountain (终南山) and Longhai Mountain (龙海山), nestled within colorful sand forests. The area boasts various renowned trees, as well as numerous birds, beasts, and medicinal fungi, making it a small kingdom of wild flora and fauna.
Scenic Overview
Wufeng Mountain is known for its unique natural landscapes, including one river, one temple, one pond, two fields, three slopes, three ditches, three rocks, five hollows, five cliffs, five peaks, and a multitude of butterflies, birds, trees, and flowers. The mountain features both natural wonders and human cultural sites, including sculptures of historical figures.
Scenic Description
Wufeng Mountain serves as the main peak of the Nanling Mountains (南岭). It is said to be the second summer retreat of the Cuanshi (爨氏) family, with its highest peak reaching 2,339 meters. The mountain features a long flowing river and a reservoir with a capacity of 380,000 cubic meters. The area is home to various rare trees, including a white ginkgo tree with a diameter of 1.8 meters. Some cypress trees grow among the rocks, ancient and robust, said to be nourished by the essence of the sun and moon, embodying longevity among cypress trees. This region is also rich in diverse wildlife, creating a small kingdom of wild flora and fauna.
The mountain’s landscapes are ever-changing; as one moves, new views unfold, each unique and captivating. Notably, the mountain features many distinct rock formations that resemble castles, walls, and foundations, leading to speculation about their origins—be it ancient ruins, dragon palaces, or even alien designs, allowing for imaginative stories and myths.
An ancient visitor left an inscription stating: “Visiting here, I feel as if I am still in the mountains, with colors like water, and sounds akin to birds in the forest,” indicating that the traveler had truly immersed themselves in this picturesque scene.
Historical Context
Wufeng Temple (五峰山寺) is said to have been established during the reign of the Cuanshi family over 1,600 years ago and was referred to as Xingfu Temple (兴福寺) during the Ming Dynasty. There is a beautiful legend associated with this temple. During the Guangxu era of the Qing Dynasty (清光绪), a young scholar named Yin Chengluan (殷承瓛) from Liangdi Village (良迪村) in Luliang came to self-study at the temple. He vowed that if he became successful, he would erect stone sculptures of a lion, a donkey, an elephant, and a unicorn in front of the temple. Later, he went to study in Japan, participated in revolutionary activities led by Sun Yat-sen (孙中山), and after returning, took part in the “Nine Nine Uprising” in Yunnan. He eventually became a senior advisor to the commander of the western expedition during the National Protection War. In his later years, he became a devout Buddhist and fulfilled his vow by erecting stone sculptures in front of Wufeng Temple.
Main Attractions
Wufeng Mountain features stunning natural and cultural attractions, including:
- One river
- One temple
- One pond
- Two fields
- Three slopes
- Three ditches
- Three rocks
- Five hollows
- Five cliffs
- Five peaks
- A hundred butterflies
- A hundred birds
- A thousand flowers
- A hundred trees
The mountain is rich with diverse landscapes and is filled with serenity. In the deep parts of Wufeng Mountain lies a large, primordial forest where ancient trees and vines create a peaceful, shaded environment, filled with the sounds of nature.
In front of the temple, there is a ginkgo tree that has regenerated after a hundred years; beside it, there are springs concealed by cliffs with dripping water that sounds like gentle chimes. At the base of the mountain, a giant rock is home to four cypress trees, creating a stunning natural spectacle.
On sunny days, Wufeng Mountain appears as a sea of greenery, swaying in the wind; on cloudy days, it is surrounded by white mist, creating a mystical atmosphere. In the morning, the mountain glows with the light of dawn, while at dusk, the surrounding forests are painted in vibrant colors.
How to Get There
Wufeng Mountain is located about 8 kilometers from Luliang County (陆良县). You can choose to drive there, as the route is well-marked and takes approximately 20 minutes. If you prefer cycling, there are scenic country roads leading to the mountain. For those coming from Kunming (昆明), direct buses to Luliang can be taken from the Eastern Bus Station (东部客运站) or Dongju Bus Station (东菊客运站).
Travel Tips
- Transportation: To reach Wufeng Mountain, you can take public bus line 144 from Qujing City (曲靖市) to the scenic area. If you prefer not to take public transport, taxis are available.
- Shopping: The area is known for its long-haired rabbit farming and silk production. Local specialties include preserved duck and honey pears.
- Accommodation: Qujing has 23 star-rated hotels, including five three-star hotels, two preparing for three stars, nine two-star hotels, and seven one-star hotels, offering a total of 4,205 beds. These hotels provide complete facilities and a comfortable environment, ideal for travelers.
- Dining: There are 12 officially recognized “farm stay” (农家乐) establishments in the area, making dining convenient for visitors.
- Best Time to Visit: The summer is particularly lovely with blooming lotus flowers, while autumn brings fragrant rice fields, creating a picturesque scene reminiscent of southern water towns. Each summer, thousands of tourists flock to enjoy the “fragrance of rice flowers” and the “sounds of frogs accompanying the beauty of lotus flowers.”
- Festivals and Activities: The best activity during the lotus bloom season is, of course, enjoying the beautiful flowers.
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