Huang Chang · Nanjing

Author: Han Mo Lin Editor
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-03-01
Features: Nanjing, a renowned area of mountains and waters, and an ancient land of cultural heritage, was originally known for the "Forty-Eight Scenic Spots of Jinling." Along the shores of Xuanwu Lake, on the Mochou Pavilion, atop Purple Mountain, and beneath the Rain Flower Terrace, one reflects on the elegant deeds of past scholars, surrounded by the beauty of water and mountains. The ancient capital of Nanjing always evokes a sense of longing and nostalgia, stirring thoughts of antiquity. This city with nearly two and a half thousand years of history was once a splendid destination for the Six Dynasties and a famous capital for ten dynasties. Zhuge Liang described Nanjing as "dragon-reclining and tiger-crouching," a strategic stronghold in the southeast. Countless moving historical tales are recorded in literature through the ages. Li Bai's "Climbing Phoenix Terrace on Jinling," Wang Anshi's "Osmanthus Fragrance," depict the magnificent and majestic landscapes; the rise and fall of past dynasties leave one in awe. The literary giant Wu Jingzi wrote the immortal masterpiece "The Story of the Scholars" by the Qinhuai River. Nanjing, a renowned area of mountains and waters, and an ancient land of cultural heritage, was originally known for the "Forty-Eight Scenic Spots of Jinling." Along the shores of Xuanwu Lake, on the Mochou Pavilion, atop Purple Mountain, and beneath the Rain Flower Terrace, one reflects on the elegant deeds of past scholars, surrounded by the beauty of water and mountains. Nanjing was also the capital where Sun Yat-sen, the pioneer of revolution, took office as the provisional president and where his mausoleum is located. During the twenty-two years as the capital of the Republic of China, Nanjing witnessed political fluctuations, leaving behind many legends and anecdotes. The purple mist of Zhongshan Mountain, the green waves of the Qinhuai River, and the eternal green of Sun's, this ancient city still radiates dazzling brilliance.