Jingzi Mountain (荆紫山), also known as Jingshan, Ao’an Mountain, and Jinzi Mountain, is situated in Xin’an County, Luoyang, and is hailed as the “Pearl of the Yellow River.” With its main peak towering at an impressive 829 meters above sea level, the mountain derives its name from the abundant growth of Chinese bush clover, which blooms in vibrant purple during the spring and summer seasons.
The historical and cultural significance of Jingzi Mountain runs deep. In ancient times, it was believed that the Yellow Emperor, Xuanyuan, ascended to heaven after casting a tripod here, leading to the construction of temples for worship and reverence. During the Qin Dynasty, Emperor Qin Shi Huang also visited the mountain to perform sacrificial rites to the heavens, and he famously designated five large cypress trees as the “Five Grand Masters,” a historical event known as the “Qin Designation of Five Cypress Trees.” In the Han Dynasty, Emperor Wu built three grand halls on Jingzi Mountain. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, some of the mountain’s structures underwent significant restoration and renovation.
The natural landscapes of Jingzi Mountain are equally breathtaking. With its steep terrain, shrouded in mist and surrounded by swirling clouds, it earns the poetic epithet of “Jingzi Sheng Lan” (Jingzi Born Mist). This phenomenon ranks as the foremost among Xin’an’s Eight Great Scenic Spots. From the mountain’s summit, one can gaze upon the vast expanse of mountains to the west of Henan Province and the south of Shanxi Province, resembling an ocean of peaks, while the mighty Yellow River flows like a dragon, surging through valleys and gorges, imbuing the viewer with a sense of clarity and grandeur.
Each season on Jingzi Mountain boasts its own unique charm. In spring, the mountain bursts into a riot of colors as flowers bloom, and the landscape comes alive with the vibrant hues of peach blossoms, creating a picturesque contrast against the verdant hills and clear waters. In summer, the mountain is enveloped in lush greenery, providing a cool and refreshing respite from the heat. Autumn adorns the mountain with a kaleidoscope of colors as the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, painting a mesmerizing scene. Finally, winter blankets the mountain in a pristine layer of snow, transforming it into a silent and serene wonderland, where nature’s grandest palette unfolds amidst the tranquil forest paths.
Basic Information
Estimated Length of Tour | 2 hours |
Ticket Price | Free |
Opening Hours | 8.30 – 17.30 |
Telephone Number | 0086-0379-67134180 0086-0379-69765765 |
Location and Transportation
Jingzi Mountain is located in the northern part of Shijing Township, Xin’an County, Luoyang City, Henan Province, China. It is approximately 56 kilometers away from the county seat of Xin’an. To the west, it connects with the world geological park, Daimei Mountain, while to the north, it faces across the river to the Zhongtiao Mountains in southern Shanxi Province and Wangwu Mountain in Jiyuan City. Because of its relatively remote location, the most convenient way to get there is to drive yourself.