Year after year, under the eaves, we shared the snow with pear blossoms. From childhood to the day you and I wandered to the horizon.
The day we visited Xianxianju, the clouds were light and the sky was blue, with raindrops on our clothes. Ascending via the Southern Sky Cableway, strolling leisurely amidst the ethereal sea of clouds, the verdant mountains stretch out, and one can gaze far to see the towering Guanyin Peak. A gentle breeze brushes through the mountains, as if ringing the wind chimes within the wind, making a vow here, in a place that seems to be inhabited by immortals, perhaps life will sail smoothly henceforth.
The most relaxed one-day tour route at Xianxianju includes:
– South Gate entry
– Southern Sky Cableway
– Southern Sky Ladder
– Worship Platform
– Southern Sky Summit
– Southern Sky Summit Cafe
– Southern Sky Bridge
– Lotus Platform
– Buddha Shadow Lotus Charm
– Descend via Southern Sky Ladder
– Southern Sky Cableway
For a two-day route in Xianju:
– The First Academy of Jiangnan
– Tongjiang Academy
– Xianju Potan Ancient Town
And a visit to Xianxianju (South Gate entry – Southern Sky Cableway – Southern Sky Ladder – Worship Platform – Southern Sky Summit – Southern Sky Summit Cafe – Southern Sky Bridge – Lotus Platform – Buddha Shadow Lotus Charm – Descend via Southern Sky Ladder – Southern Sky Cableway).
Regarding transportation, the scenic area is located in Xianju, and it is recommended to drive there for convenience. For those not driving, take a high-speed rail to Xianju, then catch a shuttle bus from Xianju County Bus Station to the North Gate of Xianxianju, a 25-kilometer journey which is approximately 40 minutes by car, or you can take a taxi.
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Xianxianju boasts a significant advantage: there’s no need to climb the mountain. While some might argue that young people’s physical fitness may not match that of the elderly, hiking up the mountain can be a rewarding exercise. However, for those who prefer not to hike, a direct cable car ride from the Southern Sky Cableway to the mountain’s peak is available.
Interestingly, visiting on a rainy day has its perks, as the likelihood of witnessing the mountains enveloped in clouds and mist is high, creating an ethereal, fairyland-like atmosphere.
The Southern Sky Cableway’s cabins are designed to accommodate multiple passengers, ensuring a good capacity and offering a very stable ride.
A unique feature of Xianxianju is the Southern Sky Ladder, an escalator that takes you directly up the mountain, sparing you the effort of climbing. This is particularly beneficial for the elderly, children, and young people who prefer not to walk.
Throughout the journey, you’ll encounter stunning scenery and numerous photo opportunities. In autumn, the area becomes a vibrant canvas of colors, making it exceptionally beautiful.
The prominent peak is known as Guanyin Peak, which presents a different view from various angles. From afar, it resembles Guanyin with hands together, standing tall amidst the mountains, exuding grandeur.
Adding to the intrigue, Guanyin Peak’s height of 919 meters aligns with the day Guanyin Bodhisattva is believed to have achieved enlightenment—a remarkable coincidence and a fascinating fact.
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This is a natural Buddha statue, an ideal spot for taking pictures and praying for blessings. Begin your journey at the Worship Platform, where you can hang a lock and capture a photo with the majestic Guanyin Peak in the background. Next, make your way to the Southern Sky Summit, which features a glass platform for testing your courage and enjoying panoramic views.
For coffee enthusiasts, the Southern Sky Summit Cafe is a must-visit. With its stunning views, I indulged in a cup of ‘Plum’ coffee, a perfect pairing with Xianju’s specialty, bayberries. The small cakes are delightful, and you can even play the piano here.
After the rain, the mist in the mountains creates a scene reminiscent of an ink painting, embodying the phrase ‘All Things in the Picture, A Thousand Cliffs in the Jade World’. Crossing the Southern Sky Bridge, I was thrilled to witness a tightrope competition, adding an element of excitement to the day.
The scenery along the way is equally captivating, with the autumn atmosphere enhancing the experience. The Lotus Platform, shaped like a lotus, is another popular viewing point. Many couples have taken wedding photos here, making it a photogenic spot.
Previously accessible via cable car, there was another scenic platform called ‘Buddha’s Light and Lotus Charm’. This place exudes both a sense of immortality and a chivalrous spirit, making it perfect for donning Hanfu or dressing up as a knight for photos. On a clear day, the rosy clouds create a magical glow, and the smoke emitted adds to the atmospheric experience.
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