A Dreamy Journey Through Springs, A Seeking Inquiry from Clear Rocks—A Quanzhou Journey Embracing the Simplicity of Everyday Life and the Essence of Zen
As dusk gently embraced Jinjiang, I drove into the courtyard bathed in the afterglow of the setting sun. This residence, adjacent to Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport, is like a tranquil haven amidst the city's hustle and bustle. It faces the headquarters of Lilang Apparel across the street, is a seven-minute walk from the bustling Baolong City Plaza, and is just across the street from the lush greenery of Century Park. Convenience and tranquility blend perfectly here. As soon as the car stopped, staff came to assist with my luggage. The free public parking lot is located at the back of the hotel, eliminating the need to search for a parking space. This thoughtful touch instantly dispelled much of the fatigue from my journey.
Stepping into the lobby, warm yellow lighting bathed the simple yet elegant furnishings, and a subtle fragrance filled the air. The front desk staff efficiently processed my check-in. The convenience of electronic ID check-in and the exclusivity of the VIP channel perfectly embodied the service philosophy of "thinking of your needs and providing meticulous care." Arriving at the guest room via elevator, the cleanliness and spaciousness immediately struck me upon opening the door. The soft bed, with its pristine bedding, seemed to invite travelers to shed their travel weariness. High-speed broadband and Wi-Fi provided a smooth, seamless experience, while the HD TV offered on-demand streaming and unlimited playback. Relaxing on the bed and browsing for a while, the fatigue of the journey quietly faded away in this comfortable atmosphere. The bathroom was fully equipped with toiletries, and the hotel's complimentary ironing service and laundry facilities added a touch of ease to the trip—thinking about climbing Qingshui Rock the next day, I could iron my clothes beforehand, even the smallest details conveyed peace of mind.
As the morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, the hotel's buffet breakfast already wafted with aroma. The Chinese dishes were plentiful and varied, with hot porridge, noodles, and side dishes perfectly balanced. The self-service coffee steamed nearby; a sip, and its rich aroma awakened my taste buds. Chatting with fellow travelers at the next table during our meal, we learned that it only takes about an hour to drive from the hotel to Qingshuiyan, a convenient transportation that eased our initial worries about the journey. After dinner, we rested briefly in the lobby bar, where soothing melodies flowed from the lobby's sound system. The complimentary luggage storage service allowed us to travel light, filled with anticipation for our encounter with the ancient rock formation.
Driving along the country roads of Quanzhou, the greenery gradually deepened, with rice paddies and villages creating a picturesque scene. Half an hour later, we entered the embrace of Penglai Mountain. Qingshuiyan is located atop Penglai Mountain in Penglai Town, Anxi County, with its main peak reaching an altitude of 763 meters and a total area of 11.1 square kilometers. This national 4A-level scenic area is renowned as "a place of unparalleled springs and rocks, the first peak of Penglai," centered around Qingshuiyan Temple, integrating religious pilgrimage, ecotourism, and folk customs, and preserving the millennia-old faith and scenery of southern Fujian. Upon arriving at the scenic area entrance, an ancient mountain gate stands before you, flanked by two imposing stone lions. The three powerful characters "Qingshuiyan" (Clear Water Rock) above the gate seem to tell tales of time's vicissitudes.
Climbing the 108 winding pilgrimage steps, one can feel the tranquility and profound weight of the mountains and forests with every step. Lush trees line the stone steps, interspersed with exotic flowers and herbs, where bees and butterflies flutter about. The fresh air carries the fragrance of grass and earth, a truly invigorating experience. Halfway up, the "Emerging Water Stone" comes into view. Clear spring water gushes from the crevices of the rock, flowing perpetually. Cupping a handful, its cool, sweet taste instantly dispels the heat of the climb. The tranquil and solemn Haihui Garden, not far away, complements the nearby Sanzhong Temple. Its red walls and gray tiles, nestled among green trees, exude a rustic elegance, prompting one to slow their pace, as if afraid to disturb the serenity.
Continuing uphill, one arrives at the heart of Qingshuiyan – Qingshuiyan Temple. This ancient temple, originally built in the sixth year of the Yuanfeng era of the Northern Song Dynasty, has withstood over 950 years of wind and rain, undergoing more than 30 reconstructions and renovations, yet still retains its imposing grandeur. The temple appears to have three stories on the outside but is actually four, consisting of the Sakyamuni Hall, the Patriarch Hall, and the Haotian Gate from top to bottom, flanked by the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and Guanyin Pavilion. The overall layout resembles the Chinese character "帝" (Emperor), nestled against the mountain and overlooking the ravine, perfectly blending man-made architecture with the natural rock formations. The vermilion walls and green tiles gleamed in the sunlight, the upturned eaves of the hall forming graceful curves. The lifelike stone carvings on the front wall, depicting scenes of golden turtles playing in the water, soaring birds, and swaying willows, showcased the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient artisans.
Stepping into the Ancestral Master Hall, the air was filled with the rising smoke of incense, creating a solemn and dignified atmosphere. Inside, a sandalwood statue of the Qingshui Patriarch was enshrined. This renowned Northern Song Dynasty monk was known for his extensive medical practices, bridge and road construction. After his death, he was revered as a deity, and the Song court bestowed upon him the title "Master of Zhaoying Guanghui Ciji Shanli" four times, making him a spiritual anchor for the people of southern Fujian. Many ancient couplets hung in the hall, including "Orioles and flowers follow the world; pavilions lean against the mountain peak" by Zhang Ruitu, a Ming Dynasty scholar, and "A place of unparalleled springs and rocks; the first barrier to awakening from dreams" by Tang Guisheng, a Qing Dynasty scholar. The powerful strokes and profound meanings allowed visitors to appreciate the art of calligraphy while also experiencing the cultural heritage of the ancient temple. The Fangjian Pond outside the temple is crystal clear, reflecting the sky and clouds like a mirror, echoing the nearby Sacred Spring. Legend has it that the spring's water is sweet and refreshing, capable of purifying the mind and curing illnesses. Many tourists stop to collect water, hoping to absorb its spiritual energy.
The thousand-year-old camphor tree outside the temple is a marvel. This ancient tree, with its branches all pointing north, is said to have its branches and leaves stretching northward because of Yue Fei's execution. Its vigorous trunk twists and turns, its lush green leaves bearing witness to the passage of time and the vicissitudes of history. The rock carving beside the camphor tree is particularly precious. This flat relief stone carving from the Song Dynasty clearly records the architectural style and overall layout of Qingshuiyan Temple, serving as an important basis for successive renovations and reconstructions. Touching the mottled marks on the stone, one can almost feel the pulse of history. Not far away, the ancient Podocarpus macrophyllus stands tall and vigorous, and the bamboo-split landscape evokes contemplation. Each scenic spot carries a moving legend and profound cultural connotation.
Reaching the summit, the entire Qingshuiyan Scenic Area unfolds before you, with its towering temples and rolling mountains, shrouded in mist like a fairyland. In the distance, the Penglai Basin mountains encircle the area, their deep valleys faintly visible. A gentle breeze rustles the pines, their sound echoing the temple bells, bringing a sense of tranquility and escape from the hustle and bustle of the world. Here, one can experience both the solemnity of religious culture and the breathtaking beauty of southern scenery; nature and culture intertwine to create a stunning landscape painting.
As the sun sets, we reluctantly bid farewell to Qingshuiyan and drove back to the Quanduo Hotel. The hotel felt even more inviting under the night sky; the lobby bar's soft lighting remained, and the chess and card room and home theater offered more options for the evening. Washing away the fatigue of the hike, I lay on the soft bed, reflecting on the day's sights and sounds at Qingshuiyan. The solemnity of the ancient temple, the ethereal beauty of the mountains and waters, and the moving legends intertwined, making it difficult to fall asleep. The hotel's 100Mbps broadband allowed me to organize the photos I had taken during the day and share the joy of the trip with family and friends; the high-speed internet experience greatly enhanced the journey.
The next morning, after the hotel's buffet breakfast, I didn't rush off but instead took a leisurely stroll to Century Park. The park was lush and green, with people exercising leisurely, echoing the tranquility and comfort of the hotel. Around noon, I headed to the Sunshine Food Street to sample authentic Minnan cuisine. Just an eight-minute taxi ride away, the street offered a dazzling array of delicious snacks, tantalizing my taste buds and enriching my Quanzhou experience.
This trip, staying at the Quanduo Hotel and visiting Qingshuiyan, offered both a convenient and comfortable accommodation experience and a spiritual cleansing through the mountains and waters. With its superior location, comprehensive facilities, and attentive service, Quanduo Hotel provides a solid support for travelers, allowing them to unwind and move forward with peace of mind. Qingshuiyan, with its profound history and culture, beautiful natural scenery, and solemn religious atmosphere, allows travelers to find inner peace amidst the mountains and waters, and experience the charm of culture through legends. This journey, imbued with the warmth of everyday life and the spirit of Zen, is destined to become an unforgettable memory, allowing one to still feel the warmth and elegance of Quanzhou when looking back.
As dusk gently embraced Jinjiang, I entered the courtyard bathed in the afterglow of the setting sun. This residence, adjacent to Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport, is like a tranquil harbor amidst the city's hustle and bustle. It faces the headquarters of Lilang Apparel across the street, is a seven-minute walk from the bustling Baolong City Plaza, and is just across the street from the lush greenery of Century Park. Convenience and tranquility blend perfectly here. As soon as the car stopped, staff came to help with the luggage. The free public parking lot is located at the back of the hotel, eliminating the need to search for a parking space. This thoughtful touch instantly dispelled much of the fatigue from the journey.
Stepping into the lobby, warm yellow lighting bathed the simple yet elegant furnishings, and a subtle fragrance filled the air. The front desk staff efficiently processed check-in; the convenience of electronic ID check-in and the exclusivity of the VIP lane perfectly embodied the service philosophy of "thinking of your needs and providing meticulous care." Arriving at the guest room by elevator, the cleanliness and spaciousness immediately struck me. The soft bed with its pristine bedding seemed to invite travelers to shed their travel weariness. High-speed broadband and Wi-Fi provided a smooth experience, and the HD TV offered on-demand streaming and unlimited playback. Relaxing on the bed and browsing for a while, the fatigue of the journey quietly faded away in this comfortable atmosphere. The bathroom was fully equipped with toiletries, and the hotel's complimentary ironing service and laundry facilities added a touch of ease to the trip—Ironing my clothes beforehand, knowing I'd be climbing Qingshuiyan the next day, gave me peace of mind.
As the morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, the hotel's buffet breakfast already filled the air with enticing aromas. The Chinese dishes were plentiful and varied, with hot porridge, noodles, and side dishes perfectly balanced. The self-service coffee steamed, and a sip awakened my taste buds with its rich fragrance. Chatting with fellow travelers at the next table, I learned that it was only about an hour's drive from the hotel to Qingshuiyan, a convenient option that eased my initial worries about the journey. After breakfast, I relaxed in the lobby bar, where soothing melodies played from the public sound system. The complimentary luggage storage service allowed us to travel light, full of anticipation for our encounter with the ancient rock formation.
Driving along the country roads of Quanzhou, the greenery gradually deepens, with rice paddies and villages creating a picturesque scene. Half an hour later, we entered the embrace of Penglai Mountain. Qingshuiyan, nestled atop Penglai Mountain in Penglai Town, Anxi County, boasts a main peak of 763 meters and a total area of 11.1 square kilometers. This national 4A-level scenic area is renowned as "a place unparalleled in springs and rocks, the first peak of Penglai," integrating religious pilgrimage, ecotourism, and folk customs, with Qingshuiyan Temple at its core. It encapsulates a thousand years of faith and scenery from southern Fujian. Upon arriving at the entrance, an ancient mountain gate stands before you, guarded by two imposing stone lions. The three characters "Qingshuiyan" on the lintel are powerful and vigorous, seemingly telling tales of the vicissitudes of time.
Climbing the 108 winding pilgrimage steps, one can feel the tranquility and profound weight of the mountains with every step. The stone steps are lined with lush trees, dotted with exotic flowers and rare herbs, where bees and butterflies flutter about. The fresh air is filled with the fragrance of grass, trees, and earth; a deep breath is invigorating. Halfway up, the "Emerging Water Stone" comes into view. Clear spring water gurgles from the crevices of the rock, flowing year-round. A handful of water cupped in your hands is cool and refreshing, instantly dispelling the heat of the climb. Not far away, the tranquil and solemn Haihui Garden, contrasting beautifully with the nearby Sanzhong Temple, its red walls and gray tiles appearing even more ancient and elegant under the shade of green trees, making one slow down, afraid to disturb the peace.
Continuing uphill, you arrive at the heart of Qingshuiyan—Qingshuiyan Temple. This ancient temple, originally built in the sixth year of the Yuanfeng era of the Northern Song Dynasty, has withstood over 950 years of wind and rain, and undergone more than 30 reconstructions and renovations, still maintaining its imposing grandeur. The temple appears to have three stories on the outside but is actually four. From top to bottom, it comprises the Sakyamuni Hall, the Patriarch Hall, and the Haotian Gate, flanked by the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and Guanyin Pavilion. The overall layout is in the shape of the Chinese character "帝" (Emperor), nestled against the mountain and overlooking the ravine, perfectly blending man-made architecture with the natural rock formations. The vermilion walls and green tiles gleam in the sunlight, the upturned eaves of the halls forming graceful curves, and the bas-reliefs on the walls in front of the halls are lifelike, featuring ingenious designs such as golden turtles playing in the water, soaring birds, and swaying willows, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient artisans.
Stepping into the Patriarch Hall, the air is filled with the fragrance of incense, creating a solemn and dignified atmosphere. Inside, a sandalwood statue of the Qingshui Patriarch is enshrined. This renowned monk of the Northern Song Dynasty was known for his extensive medical practices, bridge and road construction. After his death, he was revered as a deity, and the Song court bestowed upon him the title "Master Zhaoying Guanghui Ciji Shanli" four times, making him a spiritual icon for the people of southern Fujian. Inside the hall hang numerous ancient couplets, including "Orioles and flowers follow the world; pavilions lean against the mountain peak" by Zhang Ruitu, a Ming Dynasty scholar, and "A place of unparalleled springs and rocks; the first barrier to awakening from dreams" by Tang Guisheng, a Qing Dynasty scholar. The calligraphy is vigorous and profound, allowing visitors to appreciate the art of calligraphy while also feeling the cultural heritage of the ancient temple. Outside the hall, the Fangjian Pond's clear water reflects the sky and clouds like a mirror, echoing the nearby Sacred Spring. Legend has it that the spring's water is sweet and refreshing, capable of purifying the mind and curing illness; many tourists stop to collect water, hoping to absorb its spiritual energy.
The thousand-year-old camphor tree outside the temple is a marvel. This ancient tree, with its branches all facing north, is said to have its branches and leaves pointing north because of Yue Fei's execution. Its gnarled and twisted trunk and lush green leaves bear witness to the passage of time and the vicissitudes of history. The rock carving stele beside the ancient camphor tree is particularly precious. This flat relief stone carving from the Song Dynasty clearly records the architectural regulations and overall layout of Qingshuiyan Temple, serving as an important basis for its reconstruction and renovation throughout the ages. Touching the mottled marks on the stele, one can almost feel the pulse of history. Not far away, the ancient and vigorous Podocarpus macrophyllus stands tall, and the bamboo-like landscape evokes contemplation. Each scenic spot carries a moving legend and profound cultural connotation.
Climbing to the top of the mountain and looking down, the entire Qingshuiyan Scenic Area unfolds before your eyes. The temples are majestic and scattered, the mountains rise and fall in a continuous range, and the swirling clouds and mist create a scene reminiscent of a fairyland. In the distance, the Penglai Basin Mountains encircle the area, with deep ravines and secluded valleys faintly visible. A gentle breeze rustles the pines, echoing the temple bells, allowing one to forget the hustle and bustle of the world and find inner peace. Here, one can experience both the solemnity and sanctity of religious culture and the enchanting beauty of southern scenery. Ecology and culture complement each other, creating a breathtaking landscape painting.
As the sun set, we reluctantly bid farewell to Qingshuiyan and drove back to the Quanduo Hotel. The hotel felt even more welcoming under the night sky; the lobby bar's lighting remained soft, and the chess and card room and home theater offered more options for the evening. Washing away the fatigue of the hike, I lay on the soft bed, reflecting on what I had seen and heard at Qingshuiyan during the day. The solemnity of the ancient temple, the beauty of the mountains and waters, and the moving legends intertwined, making it difficult to fall asleep. The hotel's 100Mbps broadband allowed me to organize the photos I had taken during the day and share the joy of the trip with family and friends; the high-speed internet experience greatly enhanced this journey.
The next morning, after the hotel's buffet breakfast, I didn't rush off but instead took a leisurely stroll to Century Park. The park was lush and green, with people exercising leisurely, echoing the hotel's tranquility and comfort. Around noon, I headed to the Sunshine Food Street to sample authentic Minnan cuisine. Just an eight-minute taxi ride away, the street offered a dazzling array of delicious snacks, tantalizing my taste buds and making me savor this Quanzhou trip. This trip, including a stay at the Quanduo Hotel and a visit to Qingshuiyan, offered both a convenient and comfortable accommodation experience and a spiritual cleansing amidst the natural beauty and Zen-like tranquility of the mountains and waters. The Quanduo Hotel, with its excellent location, comprehensive facilities, and attentive service, provided a solid support for the journey, allowing every traveler to unwind and move forward with peace of mind. Qingshuiyan, with its profound history and culture, beautiful natural scenery, and solemn religious atmosphere, allowed travelers to find inner peace amidst the mountains and waters and experience the charm of culture through legends. This journey, imbued with the warmth of everyday life and the spirit of Zen, is destined to become an unforgettable memory, allowing one to still feel the warmth and charm of Quanzhou when looking back.