Kaolao Mountain in Cixi

Kaolao Mountain is located at the southern end of Shanglin Lake in Cixi, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province. There is a peculiar mountain with an altitude of 424 meters, covered with green trees and roaring waterfalls in the ravines, which is Kaolao Mountain (also known as Xianju Mountain). However, the origin of the name Kaolao Mountain is unknown, and understanding it literally is just a glimpse of the whole picture. The name Kaolao has its significance, as ancient poets said, 'To complete the embroidery, one must go to the spring garden, to attract the orioles to the willow branches.' It means that the embroidery girl uses her skillful hands to create exquisite works to attract the orioles. Yet, every hill and water, every stone and tree on Kaolao Mountain is the natural craftsmanship of nature, without any trace of artificial carving, just like its name, primitive and simple. The mountain is divided into east and west peaks, called East Kaolao Mountain and West Kaolao Mountain, respectively. On a clear day, when you climb to the top of East Kaolao Mountain, you will see the full view of Shanglin Lake, with the surrounding Cuiping Mountain peaks stretching and sprawling at your feet, giving a sense of overlooking all the other mountains. Between the two peaks, there is a valley, and at the bottom of the valley, the stream is rapid; this is Kaolao Creek.