Tracing the Historical and Cultural Origins of Jiuhuashan — Field Report of Day Three of the Science Popularization Training Camp

Tracing the Historical and Cultural Origins of Jiuhuashan — Field Report of Day Three of the Science Popularization Training Camp

On August 21, 2025, the Jiuhuashan  Global Geopark Science Popularization Volunteer Training Camp entered its third day. Under the guidance of cultural expert Mr. Fei Yechao, the volunteers visited the Jiuhua Street Scenic Area, following the footsteps of historical figures to explore the cultural context carried by this mountain.

At daybreak, the volunteers arrived at Huacheng Temple, the founding temple of Jiuhuashan. Quoting Record of Huacheng Temple by Fei Guanqing, Mr. Fei introduced the historical origins and cultural significance of the temple. As he noted, the landscape not only shapes a unique natural pattern but also provides fertile ground for the development of culture. The group then ascended to Baisui Palace. Having undergone multiple destructions and reconstructions, the ancient architectural complex silently records the rise and fall of history. Gazing into the distance, the natural “Sleeping Buddha” mountain formation came into view, where unique geomorphology and historical memory intertwine, allowing participants to truly महसूस the integration of geological landscapes and cultural meaning.

At the site known as “Dwelling in Cliffs and Drawing from Streams,” the volunteers entered ancient caves to trace the story of Kim Qiaojue’s seclusion. Legends of mountain spirits intertwined with historical records, adding a sense of mystery to Jiuhuashan. In front of Dongya Chan Temple, Professor Wu Weiping from the Anhui Institute of Geological Survey guided the volunteers from a geological perspective, linking mountain formations with cultural inheritance and interpreting the scenery as a scroll where nature and history converge.

Mr. Fei also mentioned that the Ming-dynasty philosopher Wang Yangming once traveled to Jiuhuashan and praised it as embodying the “three forms of immortality,” while the great Tang poet Li Bai immortalized it with the line, “Subtle forces divide into two energies, giving rise to the sacred Jiuhuashan,” endowing the place with poetic spirit. It is through the writings and footsteps of these historical figures that Jiuhuashan reveals a distinctive cultural depth beyond its natural beauty.