Sisters Ponds Introduction
After passing by the Ali Mountain Hotel and walking through a tranquil forest of Chinese cedar, the first sight that catches your eye is a clear small pond on the left — this is the "Sister Pond" within the Sister Ponds. The Sister Ponds consist of two adjacent alpine lakes, which, according to legend, were the site where two mountain sisters took their lives out of love, adding a mysterious and romantic hue to the emerald waters. The Sister Pond is roughly circular, covering an area of about 20 ping, and is surrounded by lush red cypress trees. This forest has a long history, as it was rejuvenated in the 1930s by Japanese scholars using a method called "natural sowing," and is now one of the areas with the densest distribution of red cypress within the Ali Mountain National Scenic Area. Strolling here, visitors can deeply appreciate the serene atmosphere emanating from the cypress forest. Just about 50 meters away, the "Sister Pond" is larger, covering approximately 160 ping. The pond's water remains clear as a mirror all year round, reflecting the verdant surroundings. The most captivating sights are the two "Cynthia Pavilions" that stand on the bases of two giant cypress trees in the middle of the pond; they are connected to the shore by wooden bridges, spanning across the emerald lake, forming one of the most iconic and beautiful landmark compositions in Ali Mountain. The trails surrounding the Sister Ponds are well-planned and easy to walk. Visitors can leisurely stroll along the paths, observing the two interdependent alpine lakes from different angles, enjoying the exquisite scenery created by the interplay of pond and forest, and washing away travel fatigue in the tranquil natural atmosphere.
