Quzhou's 10 ancient scenic spots

Changshan county in Quzhou, Zhejiang province, a place rich in history and culture, is home to ten renowned ancient scenic spots.

Some spots are vividly depicted in the novel Gumazhuan by Quzhou author Zhou Xinhua through the perspective of Zhao Ding (1085-1147), a prominent prime minister in the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279) who resided in Changshan for many years. The descriptions in the novel bring the ancient beauty of Changshan to life.

Shimen Valley is enveloped in a thick mist in Quzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

Shimen Valley is located in Hejia township, about 13 kilometers from the Changshan county seat. During the transition from autumn to winter, the valley is enveloped in a spectacularly thick mist.

The tomb of Zhao Ding is located behind Wentou village in Hejia township. Originally, stone figures and horses adorned the tomb, though they have since disappeared.

Qiuchuan town is known for its thriving handicraft scene. Local craftsmen use materials like rattan, bamboo, and abundant water resources to produce high-quality paper, white as snow. During the drying season, the town is covered with drying paper, creating a dazzling white landscape.

Xifeng Mountain stands west of Changshan, its sharp summit rising above its surroundings. From the top, one can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Wenfeng Tower stands at the summit of Tashan Mountain in Quzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

Tashan Mountain, located in the county seat, is known for Wenfeng Tower, located at its summit. The tower exudes an ancient and majestic aura as it reaches into the clouds. The scenery on the mountain changes with the seasons, offering a unique beauty no matter the time of year.

The sweet spring in Yangu Mountain is situated in Dageng village, Huibu town. The area features limestone landscapes with caves, underground rivers, and springs, which made it a famous summer retreat in ancient times. The spring water cascades down from mountain caves, making for a splendid sight.

The stone chamber is located on the western slope of Sanqu Mountain. It is 20 meters wide and 15 meters deep, with several ancient stone inscriptions. It is said that Zhao Bian (1008-84), a righteous official in the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127), once studied here.

The beautiful scenery around Zhaoxian's Ancient Ferry in Quzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

Zhaoxian's Ancient Ferry, located in the old street of Zhaoxian town, has been an official crossing point since before the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Historically, it was the only ferry from Quzhou to Jiangxi and Anhui provinces, and it was renowned throughout the region.

Huilong High Bridge is a single-arch stone bridge that spans a gorge in Xiushu village, Fangcun town, 25 kilometers northeast of the Changshan county seat. It looks like a colorful ribbon stretching across the sky.

Bailong Cave is located southwest of the Changshan county seat. The two caves are 30 meters apart. The upper cave is spacious, 70 meters deep and 20 meters wide, while the lower cave is smaller, 7 meters deep and 2 meters wide. A stream flows continuously through the caves, creating a soothing sound.