Moon Hanging Peak, also known as Guayue Peak (挂月峰), is the western terraces of Mount Wutai, located 13 kilometers west of Taihuai Town in Shanxi Province. Standing at an elevation of 2,773 meters, the peak is characterized by its flat summit, which spans over 300 acres. The shape of Moon Hanging Peak resembles a peacock spreading its feathers, especially when viewed from a distance. The peak’s poetic name comes from the enchanting sight of the moon hanging low over the mountain, creating a picturesque scene where the moon appears like a suspended mirror amidst the serene landscape.
As the highest point on this part of the mountain, Moon Hanging Peak is a favorite spot for visitors who enjoy climbing and exploring. Reaching the summit offers a variety of stunning natural spectacles depending on the time of day. In the early morning, one can witness the breathtaking sunrise as it emerges from the horizon, flooding the sky with brilliant colors. After a rainstorm, the peak provides a panoramic view of the shifting and mysterious clouds below, which seem to dance and transform continuously. In the evening, the sky is often filled with a spectacular display of vibrant sunset hues, with the surrounding forests bathed in a golden glow. Each visit to the peak is a unique and unforgettable experience, leaving a lasting impression on those who make the journey.
At the summit of Moon Hanging Peak stands Fahui Temple, a stone-built temple dedicated to the Lion’s Roar Manjushri, a significant figure in Buddhist tradition. North of the temple, there is a natural pond with a diameter of about 10 meters, fed by a spring located to the north of the pond. The spring measures approximately 1.5 meters in both length and width, adding to the tranquil atmosphere of the peak.
Xitai (Western Terrace) of Mount Wutai is renowned for its production of fragrant mushrooms, also known as Xiangmo. These mushrooms are thick and aromatic, and because they resemble fresh peaches, the monks refer to them as “Pan Tao,” or flat peaches.
A poignant legend surrounds the origin of these mushrooms. Long ago, a beautiful young woman named Xianglian lived at the foot of Xitai. She was said to be as stunning as a fairy. At the age of 18, while gathering medicinal herbs on the mountain, she encountered a group of men led by a wicked young man who had come to visit the temples. The young man, emboldened by his companions, attempted to take advantage of Xianglian. She fiercely resisted but, unable to escape, tragically ended her life by throwing herself against a large stone nearby.
A few days after this sorrowful event, fragrant mushrooms began to grow in circles all over the hillside where Xianglian had perished. The aroma of the mushrooms spread for miles, attracting monks from nearby temples who eagerly gathered them. Despite continuous harvesting, the mushrooms kept growing back, leading people to believe that these mushrooms were a manifestation of Xianglian’s spirit, symbolizing her eternal purity and undying soul.
