Mount Guniujiang, Anhui

Mount Guniujiang is located at the junction of Shitai County, Chizhou City and Qimen County, Huangshan City in Anhui Province. It is one of the three highest mountains in southern Anhui. Below is a detailed introduction: Natural Features - Geology and Landforms: Mainly composed of granite landforms, it has undergone early plate subduction, collision, and multiple tectonic movements throughout its long geological history, creating a landscape of towering peaks, crisscrossing ravines, and scattered rocks. The highest peak in the park, Guniugang, has an elevation of 1,727 meters. There are also magnificent peaks and valleys such as the Kaokeng Grand Canyon. - Hydrological Features: Rich in water resources, it is one of the two major precipitation centers in Anhui Province, with an average annual precipitation of 2,210 millimeters. Numerous mountain streams, waterfalls, deep pools, and clear ponds are dotted throughout the area. For example, the Jiuhua Pond Scenic Area is home to dozens of ponds and caves of varying sizes and shapes. - Climate Characteristics: It has a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons, abundant rainfall, mild climate, and fresh air. The average annual temperature is around 15°C. The cool summers make it a summer resort. Ecological Resources - Plant Resources: Home to many rare plants, such as Chinese tulip trees, Emmenopterys henryi, and Cinnamomum japonicum. The vegetation zones are clearly defined, ranging from evergreen broad-leaved forests, mountainous evergreen and deciduous broad-leaved mixed forests, mountainous deciduous broad-leaved forests, to mountaintop shrubs and mountain meadows. The vegetation coverage rate reaches 95%, and the forest coverage rate reaches 90%. - Animal Resources: It boasts rich wildlife resources, including 22 national key protected animals, such as clouded leopards, leopards, sika deer, and Cabot's tragopan. It is known as a natural "laboratory" and "gene bank" for animals, plants, and microorganisms. History and Culture - Origin of the Name: Its name comes from its resemblance to a bull descending from the sky. It was anciently called "West Huangshan." - Cultural Heritage: Many myths, legends, and folk tales related to Mount Guniujiang are circulated locally, such as the legend of Taishang Laojun's mount, the green bull, transforming into Mount Guniujiang, adding a touch of mystery to the mountain. Tourist Attractions - Shitai Mount Guniujiang: Attractions include Longmen Lake and the Four-Tiered Waterfall. Visitors can stroll along the forest plank road, admire the natural scenery, and experience bamboo rafting in the cool river. - Qimen Mount Guniujiang: The Guanyintang Scenic Area is one of its core scenic areas, featuring strange rocks such as "Mandarin Duck Stone" and "Flying Stone," as well as caves like the Tibetan Army Cave. With its dense forests and fresh air, it is a great place for leisure, vacation, and ecotourism.