Taigong Mountain (太公山), nestled within the AAAA-rated Tianmu Lake Tourist Resort in Liyang, Changzhou city, is a captivating destination offering the finest panoramic views of Tianmu Lake within the resort. Formerly known as Diaoyutai Mountain, its name originates from the legend of Jiang Taigong, who is said to have engaged in fishing at this very site. With its stunning peaks, mirror-like waters, verdant shades, and uniquely shaped rocks vying for attention, Taigong Mountain paints a beautiful picture of mountainous landscapes. The area is characterized by lush vegetation, a considerable distance from urban areas, and an absence of industrial enterprises in the vicinity, resulting in an atmosphere free from pollution and the formation of a unique, favorable microclimate.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Taigong Mountain
- Other Attractions in Liyang
Basic Information
| Website | http://www.tmhtour.com/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 45 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0519-87985076 |
Location and Transportation
Taigong Mountain is situated in the central region of the Tianmu Lake Tourist Resort in Jiangsu Province, serving as the focal point where the East Auxiliary Dam and the main dam intersect. To get there, you can take bus Liyang 232 and get off at Shahe Bridge Stop (沙河桥站).
Highlights of Taigong Mountain
The Grand Entrance
The grand entrance to Taigong Mountain stands at an impressive thirteen meters, showcasing exquisite architectural design and a remarkable presence. Adorned with intertwined twin dragons amid clouds and mist, visitors ascend the mountain through 103 steps, each step contributing to the sense of ascending to a sacred space. The mountain gate features a double-eaved gable-and-hip roof, spanning three bays with the central bay as the main entrance and two flanking bays on either side. Each section is intricately carved with elaborate wave patterns in bas-relief. The three-tiered roof, with its prominent ridges, bears the inscription “Carp Leaping over the Dragon Gate,” creating a radiant spectacle when illuminated by sunlight.
Fishing Site
A notable feature on Taigong Mountain is a small rock, measuring less than five square meters, with imprints of two feet and a fishing basket. The basket imprint, basin-sized and consistently filled with water throughout the year, is said to be a perpetual reminder of Jiang Taigong’s legendary fishing exploits after assisting King Wu in establishing the Western Zhou Dynasty. Legend has it that Jiang Taigong traveled extensively, and upon reaching the shores of Tianmu Lake, he leisurely fished in this dragon pond.
Observation Deck
The observation deck atop Taigong Mountain provides the ideal vantage point for enjoying the breathtaking views of Tianmu Lake. The lake’s surface shimmers in golden reflections, creating a resplendent spectacle that unfolds beneath the observer’s gaze. To the southeast, the mist-covered mountains of Nanshan create a mesmerizing scene with peaks and valleys weaving in and out, forming a dynamic and varied landscape. The combination of the lake’s radiant beauty and the uniquely quaint architecture imparts a sense of freshness and elegance to observers.
Towering Statue of Jiang Taigong
At the summit of Taigong Mountain stands the towering statue of Jiang Taigong, reaching a remarkable height of 18.83 meters with a 3-meter base. Crafted entirely from bronze and weighing a staggering 133 tons, the statue depicts Jiang Taigong holding a blank celestial book in his left hand and a divine whip and an apricot-yellow flag in his right. With flowing beards, focused eyes, and an air of strategic contemplation, the statue is considered the world’s largest bronze sculpture of Jiang Taigong, symbolizing his legendary wisdom and contributions to history.
