Xinglong Mountain, Yuzhong – Number One Mountain in Gansu

Yunlong Bridge is a picturesque wooden arch bridge, designed in the style of a corridor. The bridge, with its delicate and intricate structure, resembles a rainbow spanning across a mountain stream. It measures 155 meters in length and 3 meters in width. The bridge features seven pavilions along its length, with pavilions at both ends, characterized by upturned eaves and hipped roofs. The interior of the bridge is adorned with carved beams and painted rafters, and the roof is covered with glazed tiles. Yunlong Bridge connects the two peaks of Qiyun and Xinglong, thus earning its name, which means “Cloud Dragon Bridge.”

Originally built in 1763 during the 28th year of the Qianlong Emperor’s reign, the bridge was initially named “Yingshan Bridge,” signifying the welcoming of good people from all directions. Over the years, it was repeatedly destroyed by floods and subsequently rebuilt. In 1900, during the 26th year of the Guangxu Emperor’s reign, Cen Chunxuan, the governor of Gansu, allocated funds for its reconstruction. The county magistrate, Chen Chang, renamed it “Yunlong Bridge.” This bridge is not only one of the ancient architectural structures of Xinglong Mountain but also a symbol of the mountain’s historical heritage.

The Great Buddha Hall features a central hall flanked by two side halls. The structure is adorned with heavy eaves and interlocking brackets, with beams and rafters intricately painted in blue, green, and red, giving the hall a solemn and majestic appearance. In front of the hall stand three towering spruce trees, and within the courtyard, there are five yurts. The calligraphy above the main hall, “大雄宝殿 (Mahavira Hall),” is the work of Zhao Puchu.

Inside the main hall, three Buddhas are enshrined: Shakyamuni Buddha of the Sahā world in the center, Medicine Buddha of the Eastern Pure Lapis Lazuli world on the left, and Amitabha Buddha of the Western Pure Land on the right. In front of Shakyamuni stands a statue of Genghis Khan, whose name in Mongolian means “Great Leader like the Ocean.” The statues are crafted from clay and adorned with gold, with smooth lines and lifelike features, representing the exquisite work of artisans from Pingliang, Gansu. Additionally, in front of the Great Buddha Hall is the “Genghis Khan Cultural Relics Exhibition Hall,” which chronicles the life and achievements of the great Mongolian leader.

In 1942, the Gansu Provincial Government, anticipating a visit from Chiang Kai-shek, commissioned a specially designed, quaint villa at Xinglong Mountain. This structure, known as the Chiang Kai-shek Palace, features a unique design and an air of solemn elegance. The villa is structured as follows:

• Ground Floor: This level includes a living room, a waiting room, an aide’s room, and a conference room.
• Second Floor: Here, visitors will find another conference room, a confidential office, a bedroom, a dressing room, and a bathroom.

In August 1943, Chiang Kai-shek, his wife Soong Mei-ling, and his confidential secretary Chen Bulei, among others, stayed in this residence for six days. During their stay, Chiang Kai-shek would take leisurely strolls with his wife, sometimes supported by a cane, or ride a sedan chair up the mountain for sightseeing. Notably, Chiang Kai-shek presided over the Northwest Political and Military Conference during this time, making the residence a significant historical site.

The Guantan Valley Tourist Area is part of the Xinglong Mountain National Nature Reserve. Located 25 kilometers southeast of Lanzhou, within the boundaries of Heping Town, the area spans 342 hectares and is primarily focused on forest ecological tourism. Historically, the valley was known as the Sufu Guantan, the site of the Ming Dynasty’s Su Wang’s horse ranch. The area still has a boundary marker labeled “Mu Ma Guantan” (Pasture Officer’s Beach).

The valley is characterized by its picturesque landscape, with mountains flanking a serene valley and paths leading into tranquil gorges. Although the mountain formations here lack the dramatic peaks of Xinglong Mountain, they are rich in natural woodland charm. The dense forest cover, which reaches 86.2%, transitions from planted coniferous forests at lower elevations to secondary broadleaf mixed forests and alpine shrubs as one ascends.

The forest environment is vibrant and ever-changing, with a variety of trees, shrubs, and grasses that create a rich tapestry of seasonal colors. The pristine environment is enhanced by mountain springs that flow through the valley, converging at Dripping Water Cliff to form a unique waterfall. This scenic spot, with its lush greenery and cascading water, provides a refreshing escape and leaves visitors enchanted by its natural beauty.

Qingcheng Ancient Town, Yuzhong

Tulugou National Forest Park

Wuquanshan Park, Lanzhou