Nine Hou Mountain: Half Zen, Half Scenic Beauty

Introduction to Nine Hou Mountain Scenic Area Nine Hou Mountain is located in Lake Inner Village, Jinxing Township, Zhao'an County, Zhangzhou City, Fujian Province. It is a national AAA-level tourist attraction, renowned for its "majestic mountains, beautiful waters, spiritual trees, and mysterious caves," earning the title "First of All Mountains." The main peak, Xishan Rock, has an elevation of 1120 meters, with a total area of 226 square kilometers and a central scenic area of 25 square kilometers. It combines natural wonders, Buddhist culture, and historical relics, making it a famous mountain in southern Fujian. 1. Main Features (1) Natural Wonders - Heaven's Gate: Two stone walls flank a giant rock, forming a natural mountain gate. The words "Nine Hou Famous Mountain" inscribed by a Yuan Dynasty monk can be seen above. - Guanyin Three Treasures Stone: A giant rock at the mountain's summit resembles Guanyin, with smaller stones nearby shaped like a bottle and a bowl, vividly lifelike. - Pine Stream Spring: Clear and sweet water flows here, accompanied by the "Sword Testing Stone," said to be left by Tang Dynasty figure Chen Yuanguang. - Natural Bridge: A stone bridge naturally spans a stream, with spring water flowing through, creating a unique scene. (2) Buddhist Culture - Nine Hou Zen Temple: Originally built during the Tang Dynasty and rebuilt in the Song Dynasty, the temple features a plaque inscribed "Treasury of Heart Cleansing" by Huang Daozhou and calligraphy by Zhu Xi reading "Western Study." - Sea Viewing Tower: Climbing the tower offers a panoramic view of misty waves and cloud-covered trees, picturesque scenery. (3) Historical Relics - Five Scholars Study Room: During the Southern Song Dynasty's Qingyuan era, five scholars retreated here to teach due to the "prohibition of pseudo-learning." - Chen Diao Cave: Legend has it that Chen Diao Yan, a leader of the uprising during the late Song and early Yuan periods, stationed troops here. - Cliff Inscriptions: Includes Yuan Dynasty "Nine Hou Famous Mountain" and Ming Dynasty "Heaven's Opening" by Luo Rufang, along with numerous inscriptions by literati from various eras. 2. Practical Information - Ticket Price: 20 RMB (free during certain periods, such as for certified medical workers nationwide) - Opening Hours: Year-round, 07:30-17:30 - Transportation: - By Car: Navigate to "Nine Hou Mountain, Lake Inner Village, Jinxing Township, Zhao'an County." - By Bus: Take a bus from Zhao'an County to Jinxing Township, then transfer to local vehicles. - Best Visiting Season: Suitable year-round, especially for summer cooling. 3. Nearby Attractions - Wu Mountain Scenic Area (a branch of Nine Hou Mountain) - Zhao'an Ancient City (experience southern Fujian culture) Summary Nine Hou Mountain integrates natural wonders, Buddhist culture, and historical relics, making it ideal for hiking, exploration, and cultural enthusiasts. Compared to popular tourist spots, it is less crowded, offering a tranquil experience. If time permits, consider planning an in-depth tour with nearby attractions.