How would you feel standing before the majestic Sanhuang Shan? It is also known as the Three Emperors Peaks. Sanhuang Shan is located southwest of Shaoshi Mountain in Dengfeng City. This natural scenery spot opens its doors to visitors from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Sanhuang Shan offers a recommended sightseeing time of about 3 to 4 hours. The mountain holds a unique charm. It is a place where nature’s beauty intertwines with tales of ancient times.
Song Mountain is where Sanhuang Shan is located. It is considered the most important of China’s five sacred mountains. Buddhist monks came from India in 87 AD. They carried the first Buddhist texts. About 500 years later, Bodhidarma came to Shaolin Temple. He sat in a cave on Wuru Peak for 9 years. Then he introduced a new Zen form of Buddhism.
Song Mountain is dotted with temples of different beliefs. You will find Taoist and Confucian temples alongside Buddhist ones. UNESCO recognizes the mountain for its geological importance. It is a protected World Heritage site.
To truly experience its magnificence, traverse the peaks. An 8-kilometer walk reveals breathtaking vistas. The path passes through a newly-built monastery. It is still under construction. Its relative obscurity ensures that not many people visit.
The climb to Sanhuang Zhai Monastery is almost vertical. It stretches for 2 kilometers. Master Dejin inspired this monastery. He is a friend and kung fu brother of Master Wu Nanfang. The monastery has close ties with Wugulun Kung fu.
Master Dejian used to climb the mountain while living in Shaolin Temple. He visited a small temple near where two old nuns lived. About 70 years ago, the older nun escaped her wealthy family. She sought refuge with her companion on Song Mountain. They established the tiny temple. Now 92 and 89 years old, they have lived their lives on the mountainside.
Master Dejian had the vision to build a larger temple. With the nuns’ blessings, he embarked on this extraordinary project about 6 years ago. The younger nun smiled sweetly when asked about the construction noise. She said they were happy to be taken care of and provided with a comfortable place to stay and food to eat.
Passing through the monastery, continue on the path cut into the mountainside. Cross the suspension bridge. Delve deep into the mountain. Finally, arrive at a cable car. It descends into the Shaolin Temple complex.
Other places to visit on the Song Mountain range include the Taoist temple. Explore Zhongue Temple. Discover the Songyue Pagoda. It is the oldest of its kind in China. Visit the beautiful Fa Weng Temple. The first Buddhist monks from India came here nearly 2000 years ago.
Near the Wugulun Academy in Shi Li Pu village, wander up into the foothills. Explore the abandoned village. It is a reminder of a more gracious past. Discover a magical valley reaching into the depths of the mountain.
Sanhuang Shan is more than just a mountain. It is a journey through time. It is a testament to faith and perseverance. As you stand here, remember the monks. Remember the nuns. Remember the masters who shaped this sacred place. Let the spirit of Sanhuang Shan inspire you on your own journey.