Xianshan Lingdong Palace Introduction
The main deity worshipped here is Guan Yu, and the place is bustling with devotees, often shrouded in a light mist throughout the year. The clouds frequently drift among the mountains, creating an ethereal atmosphere reminiscent of a fairyland. Lingdong Palace features splendid architecture with golden decorations and intricately carved beams. The fairy mountain is located at the junction of Shitan and Nanzhuang Townships, with an altitude of 967 meters. Originally named Hongmaoguan Mountain, it was renamed Xianshan because of a legend about a spring water in the mountain that can cure all ailments, known as "Xianshui." Lingdong Palace is situated halfway up Xianshan, divided into two levels: the upper level enshrines the Jade Emperor, while the lower level honors the Eastern Emperor and various deities of the Three Doctrines. Xianshui can be found beside Xieling Palace behind Lingdong Palace; by ascending the small steps next to Xieling Palace, one can reach a small pavilion where the "Xianshui" can be collected. The trailhead for climbing Xianshan is located on the left side of Xieling Palace, and it takes about half an hour to reach the base. Xianshan stands at nearly one thousand meters above sea level, nestled between Hongwei Mountain and Bagua Ridge, renowned for its water that can cure diseases. There are many legends about the miraculous effects of Xianshui, and Lingdong Palace atop Xianshan is quite elegant, cloaked in a gentle mist throughout the year, with clouds often hovering among the peaks, creating a scene rich in fairyland vibes. Lingdong Palace is a palace-style temple located in the mountain, surrounded year-round by mist, creating a picturesque scenery with favorable feng shui. Since the discovery of spring water in the mountain, said to cure a hundred diseases, the fame of Lingdong Palace has spread widely, attracting pilgrims from various places who form groups to come for worship, taking the Xianshui home for consumption. From the platform in front of Lingdong Palace, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the lush mountains of Xianshan, making for excellent sightseeing.
