Sōngyuè Literature Series. Issue 3

Author: (Qing) Jing Ri Xiao, compiled by the Documentation Editing Committee of Zhengzhou Library
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2003-10-01
Features: Songshan, anciently known as Wai Fang, is also called Songgao. Located in the central plains of China, it stands at the heart of the Five Great Mountains. To the north, it overlooks the Yellow River; to the south, it borders the Ji and Ying rivers. With its layered peaks and towering cliffs, it exudes a majestic aura. It has served as a destination for imperial visits and a gathering place for the three teachings (Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism). Its long history, beautiful scenery, rich historical sites, and fascinating legends have captivated generations of scholars and poets, who have left behind many immortal works. Records of Songshan can be found as early as various historical texts from the pre-Qin period. The earliest specialized work on Songshan is generally considered to be Lu Yuanming's Record of Songgao Mountain from the Northern Wei Dynasty, though the original text is now lost. Professor Luan Xing's Chronicle of Songshan Literature provides a detailed account of the compilation, publication, and preservation of Songshan-related records throughout history, which need not be elaborated upon here. It should be particularly noted that On Songshan is the most comprehensive among them. Written in the 55th year of the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty, On Songshan is divided into thirty-two volumes covering geography, astronomy, history, topography, water sources, boundaries, imperial inspections, historical sites, inscriptions, notable figures, local products, the two teachings (Buddhism and Taoism), strange tales, literary circles, and poetic verses. It introduces over 760 place names, 218 historical sites, and 268 inscriptions in the Songshan region, collects 744 poems and 156 articles from various dynasties.