Looking for some fresh air this weekend, a friend recommended the front of Qingcheng Mountain. To be honest, I didn't have high expectations beforehand, thinking it would just be a hike and temple visit. But after walking around, I immediately added it to my "must-visit every year" list.
Entering through the mountain gate, the first impression was "green." Towering ancient trees lined both sides of the stone path, the air was damp and fragrant with the scent of grass and trees. The path was gently paved, the steps weren't steep, and walking and stopping wasn't tiring at all, especially friendly to someone like me who doesn't exercise regularly. Not far along, I reached Tianshi Cave. The branches of an ancient ginkgo tree shaded most of the courtyard. An old Taoist priest sitting under the tree, drinking tea, nodded to me, and at that moment, I suddenly felt calm. Sitting on the stone steps, listening to the sound of the wind rustling through the pine forest for a while, all the chaotic thoughts in my mind cleared away.
Further up to Shangqing Palace, the platform in front overlooks the front of the mountain. Clouds and mist rise from the valleys, making the mountain peaks appear and disappear, truly giving it an ethereal feel. I met a kind Taoist priest who told me a story about Zhang Tianshi and recommended I try the tea brewed with mountain spring water. That warm, welcoming attitude was far more comfortable than the standardized service at any trendy tourist spot.
What touched me most about the entire mountain path was its tranquility. The sound of a stream accompanied me all the way, tinkling and melodious, like nature playing white noise. One section of the path was lined with bamboo and ferns, sunlight filtering through the leaves, making me feel as if I had stepped into a movie. On the way down, I took a ferry on Yuecheng Lake. The boatwoman hummed a tune, and the green mountains on both sides slowly receded—the feeling was indescribable.
Although the summit was shrouded in fog this time, preventing me from seeing the panoramic view, it's good to leave something to look forward to; it gives me a reason to come back next time. The front of Qingcheng Mountain doesn't try to force you to climb until your legs break, nor does it try to fool you with artificial attractions. It simply offers you a peaceful green space, a cup of tea, and a quiet path. If you want to steal half a day of leisure from the fast pace of life, this is the place to go.