Qingyang Jiuziyan: A Breathtaking Mountain and Water Secret Realm

In the gentle embrace of early autumn, I embarked on a journey to seek the beauty of nature, with my destination being Jiuziyan in Qingyang County, Chizhou City, Anhui Province. This was not only a physical migration but also a spiritual cleansing, allowing me to deeply appreciate the marvels of nature and the profound tranquility of Buddhist culture. First Encounter with Jiuziyan Jiuziyan, also known as the Back Mountain of Jiuhua Mountain, may not be as famous as the front mountain, but it attracts countless travelers with its unique natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. Upon entering the scenic area, I was immediately surrounded by lush greenery, with mist swirling among the mountains, as if stepping into a flowing ink painting. Walking slowly along the winding mountain path, every step echoed with traces of history, and I felt the breath of nature. Exploring the Cave Wonders Jiuziyan is named after nine giant stones of various shapes standing tall among the mountains, resembling nine celestial maidens descending to earth. What truly amazes visitors are the caves hidden in the forest, the most famous being the "Dizang Cave." Upon entering, a cool breeze greets you, and exquisite Buddhist statues are carved on the cave walls. The flickering candlelight adds a sense of mystery and solemnity. Here, time seems to slow down, and the soul finds unprecedented peace and purification. Climbing High for a Refreshing View Continuing the climb, I finally reached the highest point of Jiuziyan. Looking around, endless mountain ranges stretch out, with seas of clouds rolling, and the Jiuhua Mountain range faintly visible through the mist in the distance—an indescribable beauty. At that moment, all fatigue vanished with the wind, leaving only inner awe and reverence for nature. Standing here felt like touching the sky, and my soul expanded boundlessly. The Influence of Buddhist Culture Jiuziyan is not only a treasure trove of natural scenery but also a sacred place of Buddhist culture. Scattered here are many ancient temples and Buddha statues, each brick and tile telling stories spanning a thousand years. Walking among them, one can hear monks chanting sutras and feel the serene and peaceful detachment from worldly affairs. In such a spiritually rich place, I unconsciously slowed my pace to listen and feel the deep touch from the soul. Return Journey and Reflection As the sun set, I reluctantly began my journey back. Looking back at Jiuziyan, my heart was filled with gratitude. This trip not only allowed me to witness the grandeur of nature but, more importantly, taught me to find inner peace amid a busy life, to respect nature, and to cherish the beauty before me. Jiuziyan, this land illuminated by Buddha’s light, will become an eternal landscape in my heart, reminding me to stay true to my original aspirations and keep moving forward. During this trip, I gained not only beautiful scenery but also a profound understanding of life and a renewed self-awareness. Jiuziyan is a place worth visiting again, and I look forward to a deeper dialogue with it next time. 1. Transportation Guide - Public Transport: Take the high-speed train to "Jiuhua Mountain Station," then a taxi for about 10 minutes to the scenic area. Alternatively, take a shuttle bus from the Jiuhua Mountain Tourist Service Center to Jiuhua Mountain Station, then a taxi to the scenic area. - Self-driving: Navigate directly to "Jiuziyan Scenic Area." There is parking available inside the scenic area, and no traffic restrictions, making self-driving convenient. 2. Ticket Information - Scenic area ticket: 70 RMB per person; round-trip cable car: 80 RMB per person (up 45 RMB, down 35 RMB). 3. Must-See Attractions - Tianhua Peak: The main peak, Tianhua Peak, stands at 1,084 meters and is the highest point of Jiuziyan. From the summit, you can overlook the Jiuhua Mountain peaks. Along the way, you will see unique rock formations such as "Tianchan Gazing at the Moon" and "Nine Dragons Coiling in the Sky." - Qibu Spring Waterfall: The most spectacular waterfall in the scenic area, it cascades down a cliff hundreds of meters high like a white ribbon hanging in the air, embodying the poetic imagery of "the Milky Way hanging green water" described by Li Bai. - Huayan Zen Temple: The birthplace of Buddhism on Jiuhua Mountain, where Jin Qiaojue once practiced. The temple houses ancient pagodas, Pantuo stones, and sacred maple and elm trees, all bearing the weight of a thousand years.