Shandong, the First Mountain of China -- Mount Tai

Author: Sun Chengzhi, Editor-in-Chief
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-10-17
Features: Famous Mountains in China. Among these, Mount Tai in Shandong Province, Mount Heng in Hunan Province, Mount Hua in Shaanxi Province, Mount Heng in Shanxi Province, and Mount Song in Henan Province are located in the central eastern, southern, western, and northern parts of the country, and have been regarded as guardian gods of the land since ancient times. They are collectively known as the Five Great Mountains. Among the Five Great Mountains, Mount Tai, the Dongyue (Eastern Peak), is rooted in the east and casts its shadow over the sea, with a majestic momentum that pierces the sky. It is rich in resources and has a profound cultural heritage, revered as the foremost of the Five Great Mountains and the guardian mountain of the nation. From ancient times to the late 18th century, it was the preferred site for emperors to conduct sacrifices, perform fengshan (sacred mountain rituals), and embark on tours. This book covers the formation of Mount Tai, the historical facts of emperors' sacrifices and fengshan rituals, the culture, religion, and folk customs of Mount Tai, as well as the traces left by ancient thinkers, politicians, poets, and scholars on the mountain. It is the most comprehensive work available on Mount Tai. The book is accompanied by over 220 illustrations, complementing the text and vividly depicting the magical and elegant peaks, springs, and streams of Mount Tai, as well as the changing scenery of day and night, and the towering temples and monasteries.