Laoyinshan Mountain in Gejiu City, Honghe

Laoyinshan Mountain (老阴山), located to the east of Gejiu City (个旧市), stands at an impressive elevation of 2162.7 meters, with a vertical height of 473.7 meters above the city. The summit experiences temperatures approximately 2°C lower than those in Gejiu, along with strong winds. Revered as the soul of Gejiu, this mountain is a popular hiking destination where natural beauty merges with local legends.

Attractions

• Zhenyin Tower (镇阴塔): A historic tower that serves as a landmark and provides beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Cultural Significance

Laoyinshan is often referred to as the "mother mountain" of Gejiu. When viewed from the west bank of Jinhu Lake (金湖), it resembles a sleeping mother, symbolizing the nurturing role it plays in the lives of the local people. The mountain's presence is fundamental to the identity of Gejiu, where residents share a profound connection with their natural surroundings. The local saying goes, "Where there are mountains, there is Gejiu," highlighting the inseparable bond between the community and the mountain.

As night falls, lights twinkle against the starry sky, creating a mesmerizing blend of earthly and celestial beauty. The mountain serves as a backdrop for cultural experiences and leisure activities, making it a vibrant destination year-round.

Hiking Trails

Laoyinshan features two main hiking trails:

1. Peak Climbing Avenue (登峰大道): This is the primary route for those seeking to reach the summit, offering a well-maintained path with scenic views along the way.
2. North Climbing Trail (北登山道): Located at Jinhu Cultural Square (金湖文化广场), this trail leads to stunning vistas of the city and the surrounding landscape.

These trails connect to form a circular hiking route, each offering distinct scenic experiences. The southern trail is rich in lush greenery, allowing hikers to enjoy the soothing sounds of birds and the vibrant colors of nature, while the northern trail presents steep cliffs and a breathtaking panoramic view of the city below.

To enhance the hiking experience, nine viewing pavilions are planned along the circular trail:

• Xintian Pavilion (心亭)
• Gongde Pavilion (功德亭)
• Sanbao Pavilion (三宝亭)
• Sifang Pavilion (四方亭)
• Wushan Pavilion (五善亭)
• Liujiao Pavilion (六角亭)
• Qixing Pavilion (七星亭)
• Bajie Pavilion (八戒亭)
• Jiulian Pavilion (九莲亭)

Additionally, the northern trail will feature Wangxiang Platform (望乡台) and Nantian Gate (南天门), providing ample opportunities for visitors to rest and take in the views.

Folklore

The legend surrounding Laoyinshan contrasts it with Laoyangshan (老阳山). It is said that Laoyinshan was home to a jade maiden named Yinci (阴慈), while Laoyangshan housed a golden boy named Yangshan (阳善). Their love story unfolds amid the jealousy of the Queen Mother of the West (王母娘娘), leading them to escape to the mortal world to be together.

In their quest for love, they took treasures from the heavens—Yinci stole colorful silk threads while Yangshan took a precious bowl. When discovered by the Queen Mother, they chose to face death rather than be separated, leading to their transformation into the mountains we see today. This tale explains not only the mountains' names but also the enduring bond between the people of Gejiu and their beloved landscape.

Unique Scenery

Whether reaching the summit by cable car or hiking, the views from Laoyinshan are breathtaking. The landscape is adorned with rolling hills, verdant bamboo groves, and unobstructed sunlight that pours over the area. Visitors often recall the lines from Tang Dynasty poet Wang Zhihuan (王之涣): "To enjoy a distant view, one must ascend higher," which perfectly encapsulates the experience.

From the summit, the sprawling city below resembles a miniature model, with shimmering Jinhu Lake reflecting the beauty of the surrounding scenery. On clear days, the sight of a sea of clouds can transform the landscape into an ethereal vision, creating a profound sense of connection between heaven and earth.

The Viewing Corridor (观景长廊) comprises a series of modern yet traditional buildings constructed on the cliffs. These structures, including Yixiang Pavilion (溢香轩), Yiran Pavilion (逸然亭), and Yuyue Pavilion (娱悦阁), are designed with innovative architecture that gives visitors the sensation of floating in mid-air. The pavilions extend outward, enhancing the dramatic views and exemplifying the mountain's rugged beauty.

Social Impact

The development of Laoyinshan has significantly improved the lives of local residents, providing new opportunities for business and tourism. On weekends, visitors flock to the mountain-top farmer's market to enjoy traditional dishes that reflect the region's agricultural bounty, such as:

• Roasted corn (烧包谷)
• Boiled corn (煮包谷)
• Corn rice (包谷饭)
• Wheat rice (麦子饭)
• Buckwheat rice (荞饭)
• Buckwheat cakes (荞粑粑)
• Millet cakes (小米粑粑)
• Goat milk (山羊奶)

Visitors gather around small wooden tables laden with a variety of pickled vegetables, creating a truly authentic farmer's dining experience that many find unforgettable.

How to Get There

Laoyinshan Mountain is conveniently accessible from Gejiu City. Here are some options for transportation:

• By Bus: Local buses run frequently from various parts of the city to the base of the mountain.
• By Taxi: Taxis are readily available and provide a quick and comfortable way to reach the mountain.
• Self-Driving: If you have access to a vehicle, driving offers flexibility and the chance to explore the surrounding areas.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for hiking, while summer can be hot and winter cold.
• What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes, water, snacks, and a camera for capturing the stunning scenery.
• Safety Precautions: Always stay on marked trails, be cautious near steep edges, and consider hiking with a buddy.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the chance to try local dishes at the farmer's market, especially on weekends when the market is bustling.
• Enjoy the Cloud Sea: If you encounter a sea of clouds, take a moment to appreciate the view—it's a unique experience that encapsulates the magic of Laoyinshan.