Qixia Mountain Scenic Area – Mingjing Lake

Nestled within Qixia Mountain, the Mingjing Lake is a naturally formed wonder. The mountain’s [...]

Nestled within Qixia Mountain, the Mingjing Lake is a naturally formed wonder. The mountain’s peach blossom streams and Zhongfeng Stream cascade down, all converging into the lake. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the lake was larger than it is today, with a vast array of water lilies and lotuses planted in the water. The willows and sweetgum trees along the shore created a picturesque scene, often frequented by literati for drinking and composing poetry.


In 1751, during his first southern tour, Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty visited Qixia Mountain and was so captivated by the scenery of Mingjing Lake that he immediately wrote the poem ‘Seven Absolutes, Mingjing Lake’: “Rainbow not from sun, mirror not from copper, stream clear and bridge curved, planted similarly. Why must we discern truth from names, borrowing his illusion to cover the true void.”


Standing several meters tall in the lake is a stone statue of the Goddess of Mercy, smiling benevolently towards all beings. In the heart of the lake, there is a Rainbow Pavilion, connected by a rainbow-like curved bridge. The lake’s water is clear, like a mirror; ripples start, and the light on the waves fluctuates. The surrounding red leaves are reflected in the water, creating an enchanting view.


The lake is open all year round, accessible 24 hours a day, with specific business hours subject to daily opening conditions.

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