The First Mountain of Ancient Longevity Culture - Qingzhou Yunmen Mountain

Location: Yunmen Mountain Scenic Area, Qingzhou City Discount Policy: Free admission for seniors over 60 years old and children under 140cm; students can purchase student tickets with a student ID. Yunmen Mountain Scenic Area is a national 5A-level scenic spot, not far from the city center, and can be reached by self-driving or taxi. There is a huge cave at the top of the mountain, running through from north to south. From a distance, it looks like a bright mirror hanging high in the sky. In summer and autumn, clouds and mist often pass through the cave, creating a spectacular view. This scene is called 'Yunmen' or 'Yunmen Wonderland,' and it is one of the eight ancient scenes of Qingzhou, known as 'Yunmen Gongbi.' Yunmen Mountain is named after this scene. On the shaded stone wall of the mountain, there is the largest ancient cliff carving in China, 'Shou' (Longevity). This character is dignified and elegant, with a rigorous structure. It is 7.5 meters high and 3.7 meters wide, with the height of each stroke reaching 2.30 meters. It is considered a masterpiece of its time and the largest 'Shou' character in the world. This 'Shou' was inscribed by Zhou Quan, the head of the Hengwang Mansion, on the ninth day of the ninth month in the thirty-ninth year of the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty, symbolizing 'longevity as enduring as the southern mountains.' Passing through the Yunmen Cave, you will reach the Buddhist holy site, the Yunmen Mountain Grottoes. On the sunny slope of Yunmen Mountain, there are five stone grottoes lined up, with 272 stone Buddha statues. The cliff walls beside the grottoes are covered with inscriptions by famous people from various dynasties, making Yunmen Mountain itself a beautiful historical scroll. The three seal characters 'Yunmen Mountain' above the Yunmen Cave vividly reflect the artistic conception of the Yunmen Wonderland. Friendly Reminder: Drive to the parking lot at the ticket office for navigation. Do not park at the foot of the mountain, as there is still a distance to walk!