Riguan Peak (日观峰), also known as Sunrise Viewing Peak, is a renowned scenic spot on Mount Tai in Tai’an, Shandong Province, China. Situated southeast of the Jade Emperor Peak, it was historically called Jieqiu Rock and is famous for its stunning sunrise views. On the eastern side of the peak, there is a 30-meter-long Sunrise Viewing Corridor, a beautiful pavilion and corridor structure that resembles a celestial palace.
To the north of the peak lies a large rock known as Tanhai Stone, which juts out sharply into the sky. This rock, measuring 6.5 meters in length and angled 30 degrees from the ground, offers an exceptional vantage point for observing the sunrise.
The western side of Riguan Peak is historically significant as the site of imperial ceremonies conducted by Tang and Song Dynasty emperors. Tang Gaozong, Tang Xuanzong, and Song Zhenzong all performed rituals here to honor the heavens. According to the “Records of Mount Tai,” during the early Ming Dynasty, a jade box containing sixteen jade slips inscribed with texts from Song Zhenzong’s sacrificial rites was found on the mountain. In 1482, after heavy rains, another set of jade slips was discovered. In December 1747, during the Qing Dynasty, two jade boxes sealed with golden cords and containing seventeen jade slips were unearthed at the peak. These slips were identified as belonging to Song Zhenzong’s ceremonies and were presented to the imperial court by the local governor, Aligun.
To the east of the peak is the Eastern Heavenly Gate, formed by two large stones resembling a gate. Further east lies the Tiger Subduing Gate, a steep and narrow pass leading down to the Eagle Worry Ravine, where water flows northeast into the Crane Washing Bay. On the north cliff of the ravine’s eastern bank is a spacious ancient cave named Qingjing Stone House, where the Yuan Dynasty female Daoist priest Sun Qingjing once practiced. This secluded area, known as the Immortal’s Field, is surrounded by forests and is rarely visited by people, making it an ideal retreat for meditation. North of this area is the Void and Brightness Mountain, with a central cave that allows sunlight to penetrate at noon, illuminating the entire space.
Throughout history, many poets have written about the beauty of Riguan Peak. For example, the Tang Dynasty poet Han Wo in his poem “Morning Sun” wrote: “One must visit Riguan after the third watch of the night, to first send off the golden crow into the blue sky.” These ancient verses capture the enchanting scenery of Mount Tai. Additionally, the peak is adorned with numerous stone inscriptions, such as “俯察万类 Observing All Beings” and “目尽长空 Eyes Reach the Sky,” which add to its cultural significance.
