Xie Ma Yai – A Legendary Landmark in Tai Mountain

Xie Ma Yai is located north of the Deng Xian Bridge in Tai Mountain. On the east stone wall, the [&h[...]

Xie Ma Yai is located north of the Deng Xian Bridge in Tai Mountain. On the east stone wall, the three characters ‘Xie Ma Yai’ are inscribed, a work of Wu Weiyue during the Ming Dynasty. It is said that this place was named after Emperor Qin Shi Huang rested his horse here while ascending Tai Mountain. Also known as Matouya, the origin of this name is subject to various interpretations. One theory suggests that the name comes from the rock structure resembling a shed, while another theory points to a cave beneath the characters that could accommodate a horse. Additionally, there are three large black characters on the cliff, which can be seen in rainy or windy weather or at night, but no one can decipher them. It is rumored that these were written by Lu Dongbin for the Peony Fairy. Hence, it is also referred to as the ‘Three-Character Cliff’. The site is open all year round, accessible 24 hours a day.


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