Zhangjiajie / Shenguitan

#November Destinations 2025 Wulingyuan Divine Turtle Pool: A Legendary Turtle in the Valley "Divine Turtle Pool" is a natural pool and rock formation in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area of ​​Zhangjiajie (usually located along the scenic routes of Jinbian Stream or Ten-Mile Gallery). Its name comes from the rocks in or beside the pool, which, through water erosion and natural formation, resemble a lifelike giant turtle, either drinking water or resting. This scene combines clear streams, a lively legend, and uniquely shaped rocks, making it a fun and auspicious small scenic spot along the hiking trail. 📍Core Features and Landscape Composition 1. "Lifelike" Figurative Rocks · Turtle-shaped Boulder: Rocks in or beside the pool whose outlines, backs, and even heads and necks closely resemble a "divine turtle." Often described as "Golden Turtle Exploring the Sea," "Spiritual Turtle Drinking Water," or "Divine Turtle Lying in the Pool," it is another masterpiece of nature's artistry. * Dynamic Association: Because the turtle's posture is connected to the pool water, the still rocks seem to be endowed with a sense of life, as if drinking and swimming, stimulating the imagination of visitors. 2. Tranquil and Beautiful Valley Environment * Clear Pool Water: The pool water usually comes from mountain streams, crystal clear, and complements the surrounding green trees, moss, and strange rocks, creating a cool and tranquil environment. * Accompanied by Streams: Streams often flow past the pool or over the rocks, making a babbling sound, adding to the tranquility and liveliness. 3. Auspicious Cultural Symbolism * Longevity and Good Fortune: In Chinese culture, the turtle is a symbol of longevity, stability, and good fortune. Therefore, "Divine Turtle Pool" is not only a natural landscape but also imbued with the auspicious meaning of "health, longevity, and lasting blessings," making it a popular spot for tourists to take photos and pray for good fortune. * Folk Legends: The scenic spot is usually accompanied by corresponding folk tales (such as legends of a sacred turtle in the mountains protecting the feng shui of the area or guarding treasures), adding to the enjoyment of the visit. 📍Practical Tourist Information * Location: Within the core scenic area of ​​Wulingyuan, Zhangjiajie City, Hunan Province. * Common Locations: Mostly located in the middle to later sections of the "Golden Whip Stream" hiking trail or along the "Ten-Mile Gallery" trail. For specific locations, please refer to the latest scenic area map or pay attention to signs along the way. * How to Visit: 1. Hiking: While hiking along the Golden Whip Stream or Ten-Mile Gallery, pay attention to the roadside signs or guide explanations to find it. 2. Stop and Observe: Stop at the viewing platform or a safe area to identify the shape of the "Divine Turtle" from the best angle. 3. Photography Spot: A great location for taking fun commemorative photos. Try composing shots that include the pool, unique rocks, and the surrounding environment. • Best Experience: • Ecological Connection: Observe if there are small fish or aquatic plants in the pool, and appreciate the ecological environment. • Tranquil Experience: In the midst of a bustling hike, this is often a relatively quiet corner where you can rest and listen to the sound of the water. • Side Trip Suggestions: Shenguitan (Divine Turtle Pool) is a "wonderful gem" on the essential hiking route. It can be combined with other famous attractions along the way. For example, at Jinbianxi (Golden Whip Stream), you can visit the filming location of *Journey to the West*, Qianli Xianghui (A Thousand Miles Meeting), and Zicaotan (Purple Grass Pool); at Shili Gallery (Ten-Mile Gallery), you can visit the Herb-Gathering Old Man and the Three Sisters Peaks. The Shenguitan (Divine Turtle Pool) in Wulingyuan is like a "lively seal" in a magnificent landscape scroll. Although small in scale, its ingenious resemblance and beautiful symbolism add a sense of intimacy, fun, and cultural warmth to the magnificent peak forest and canyon journey. When feeling slightly weary from hiking, encountering such a charming little scene, full of stories and imagination, can often bring a smile to one's face and revitalize one's spirit. It reminds visitors that in Zhangjiajie, one should not only look up at the towering pillars but also appreciate the beauty of the valleys, for nature's artistry lies in both grandeur and subtlety. Finding and discovering "Divine Turtle Pool" is a perfect embodiment of this enjoyment of appreciating both the grand and the minute aspects of travel.