Xianglu Mountain in Malong District, Qujing

Overview

Xianglu Mountain (香炉山), located 39 kilometers west of Malong County (马龙县) in Yunnan Province (云南省), rises steeply with a ridge resembling a nose that extends outward. The mountain's rocky cliffs give it a distinct appearance, resembling an incense burner, which inspired its name.

• Chinese Name: 香炉山
• Geographical Location: Southern end of Bin County (宾县), Heilongjiang (黑龙江)
• Elevation: 790 meters
• Main Peaks: Six

Introduction

Historically, a temple called Yuhuang Pavilion (玉皇阁) was built on a flat ridge of the mountain, and the Ling Palace (灵宫殿) stood in the front range, once bustling with worshippers. A couplet describes its beauty: “Xianglu zhuan ceng yan, bai zhang han shan yi qiao bi; lu ju bao ding, yi tiao liu shui ying xi yang.” Though the ancient temple has fallen into disrepair, the mountain's beauty remains intact. Centered around Xianglu Temple (香炉寺), the area spans over 6,000 acres. From a distance, the mountain resembles a Tai Chi symbol (太极), while up close it looks like an incense burner. The blue mountains and flowing waters complement each other, creating an S-shaped silhouette, resembling a harmonious Tai Chi diagram. At the center of Tai Chi, Xianglu stands tall, with steep cliffs and numerous caves, winding paths, and depths that seem endless. The terrain is magnificent, and the legends surrounding the area add to its allure, inviting contemplation.

Historical Background

Xianglu Mountain's unique and treacherous formations have been noted in ancient texts: “Cang yan dan bi, huan lie qian ren, yi ling yi, cong zhong er xia, qie ping qie tu, qi shang hu feng pan xuan, zhou za shu wei, zhi mo xiao han, ruo xian zhang ran.” The mountain's geological structure comprises water-eroded shale and sandstone. Its steep cliffs and exposed stone stairs create a distinctive landscape. Each side of the mountain offers a different view: the front resembles an incense burner, the north appears as a pillar reaching towards the sky, the southwest mimics a "lying tiger" looking back, and the northwest resembles a "frog" ready to leap. People often celebrate nature's creation through poetry: “Tian nan miao jing luo yun gen, feng shi zheng rong jie tai qing; xiao han shi lu she zhu zao, yin he bao ding zi sheng cheng; de fei gui fu diao jian qiao, liao shi shen gong hua zao jing; shan yun zhong ling kai sheng ji, chang chun bu lao gu jin ming.” However, the journey to the summit is perilous, with only narrow pathways resembling those of Mount Hua (华山), requiring careful navigation.

Scenic Features

Xianglu Mountain is tranquil, far from villages. Surrounded by pine forests, steep cliffs, and a clear stream flowing from the southeast, the sounds of flowing water and birds create a natural symphony. The “Welcoming Pine” (迎客松) stands on the rock, as if bowing to visitors, while “Green Vine Curtains” (绿藤帘) sway by the creek. Various azaleas and camellias bloom, filling the air with floral fragrance, akin to a paradise, far removed from worldly troubles. After exploring, visitors can fish, relax on the stones, or dance on the grass. Ancient visitors have praised its beauty: “Qian nian jia qi man, hao jing sheng dong nan”; “Zhi dian feng hui lu zhuan chu, lin shen gu jing hua nan miao,” “You jing ke ai chang ru meng,” “Ri ge feng chen chang wu yuan.”

Unique Attractions

Xianglu Mountain is also valuable for scientists and tourists, offering a chance to study and appreciate the geological structures. It features exposed shale, sandstone, and limestone layers, alongside numerous fossils of plants and animals. A notable plant fossil, three meters long and two meters wide, can be found by the stream, indicating that the area has risen from the ocean to a plateau due to tectonic movements millions of years ago.

The beauty of Xianglu Mountain is evident in every season. In spring, the golden blooms of Forsythia and the vibrant colors of Yangmei (杨梅) entice visitors. During summer and autumn, various mushrooms flourish in the woods. The gentle sounds of spring water and birds create a symphony of nature, while fish in the stone pools bask peacefully. Xianglu Temple (香炉寺) was founded during the Shu Han period, enduring various historical changes and repairs, and today it thrives with visitors.

Films such as "The Flower Necklace Under the Mountain" (高山下的花环) and "Wild Man" (野人) have chosen this mountain as a filming location.

Accessibility

Xianglu Mountain is located in the southwestern part of Malong County, approximately 20 kilometers from the county seat, 40 kilometers from Qujing (曲靖), and 93 kilometers from the provincial capital, Kunming (昆明). The Kunming-Qujing Expressway (昆曲高速公路) and Yima Road (宜马公路) pass nearby, making it easily accessible.

Covering over 400 hectares, with an elevation of 2010 meters and a forest coverage rate of 98%, Xianglu Mountain features steep cliffs and a center resembling Tai Chi. The landscape offers a blend of mountains and waters, with the S-shaped mountains connecting harmoniously. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty, it connects to nearby attractions like Jiulong Lake (九龙湖) and the Golden Coast Development Zone (黄金海岸开发区), earning the nickname “Xianglu Li Kong Qi, Jiulong Lianyi Xiu” (香炉倚空奇，九龙涟漪秀).

Travel Information for Hiking and Camping Enthusiasts

Nestled between the mountains in the southwestern part of Malong District, Xianglu Mountain (香炉山) is an excellent hiking and camping destination. The mountain’s name comes from its incense burner-like shape, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.

Xianglu Mountain is 20 kilometers from Malong Town and 93 kilometers from Kunming City. The Kunming-Qujing Expressway (昆曲高速公路) and Yima Road (宜马公路) provide convenient access, covering an area of over 400 hectares, with an elevation of 2010 meters and a forest coverage rate of 98%, offering an ideal environment for hiking and camping.

Hikers can ascend along the stream, experiencing the mountain's pristine nature. The steep cliffs and dense forests, coupled with fresh air, create an enjoyable exploration. Along the path, directional signs enhance the adventure, while crossing stones, small bridges, and embankments adds excitement to the journey.

For camping enthusiasts, Xianglu Mountain is a rare gem. Escape the city's noise, and enjoy the outdoors with friends by the lakeside. With fresh air and a clear sky, you can brew tea, make coffee, or barbecue while enjoying the tranquility of nature. You can either share stories under the stars or simply relax, enjoying the soothing sounds of nature.

Due to limited access, few people visit Xianglu Mountain, ensuring a relatively quiet experience with low human impact, while the scenery rivals that of other popular attractions. However, the mountain’s steepness requires caution during climbs.

Time Required

Approximately 3-4 hours for hiking.

Transportation

• From Qujing, a bus to Malong costs around 10 yuan per person (available at Gaokai or Nanchengmen bus stations).
• Once in Malong, take a bus to Jiuxian (旧县), which costs around 13 yuan per person (via expressway).
• From Jiuxian, an electric tricycle ride into the mountain costs around 20 yuan per trip, regardless of the number of passengers.

Admission Fee

10 yuan per person.

Location of the Attraction

Xianglu Mountain is located in Jiuxian Town (旧县镇), Malong County (马龙县), Qujing City (曲靖市), Yunnan Province (云南省).