San Toi Leng

Deep within the Pat Sin Leng Country Park, San Toi Leng rises. This mountain, with its eight distinct peaks, holds a mystical air. San Toi Leng translates to “Ridge of the Eight Immortals.” Each peak is named after one of these legendary figures from Chinese folklore. The shortest peak, Choi Wo Fung, is named after Lan Caihe, the patron saint of florists. Lan Caihe was a wandering musician, sharing unconventional songs and philosophical ideas. Their carefree nature, unburdened by worldly possessions, allowed them to embrace Taoist energies. One night, amidst a drunken revelry, Lan Caihe ascended to heaven, carried by a cloud or a crane. Tsao Kau Fung peak honors Cao Guojiu, the patron of acting and theatre. Cao Guojiu was a “Royal Uncle,” connected to the imperial court. However, he felt trapped by his noble origins and fled into hermithood. Embracing nature’s harmony, he achieved immortality, showing that true fulfillment lies within. Hsien Ku Fung is named after He Xiangu, the patron saint for women seeking religious fulfillment in Taoism. She was a peasant girl who, in a dream, was instructed to eat powdered mica. This granted her the ability to travel great distances and survive on little food. She used her powers to care for her parents and later ascended to heaven, defying the Empress’s attempts to exploit her abilities. Sheung Tsz Fung is named after Han Xiang Zi, the patron deity of flute artists. He defied his family’s scholarly expectations to pursue Taoism. His flute is central to a famous love story involving the Dragon Girl, showcasing the power of music and forbidden love. Kuai Li Fung is named after Iron-Crutch Li, the comic and patron of healers. Known for his unpredictable temper, he carries a gourd flask, his source of power. Once a handsome man, he lost his original body and inhabits that of a beggar, symbolizing his dedication to the marginalized. Chung Li Fung honors Zhongli Quan, a multi-talented immortal. Born with a holy countenance, he began reciting ethereal admonitions as a newborn. He trained in alchemy and used his powers to serve the people, ultimately crafting a recipe for ascension. Kao Lao Fung is named after Zhang Guo Lao, protector of families, harbinger of male heirs, and representative of the elderly. He rides backward on a white donkey, sometimes with a fish drum. After consuming a mystical stew, he gained immortality and later defied the emperor’s demands, demonstrating his rejection of political hierarchy. Finally, the highest peak, Chung Li Fung, is dedicated to Lu Dongbin, the de facto leader of the immortals. He was born amidst heavenly scents and celestial music. Meeting Zhongli Quan at an inn, he dreamt of a future filled with betrayal and death. This led him to embrace Taoism, valuing service to the people and authentic honesty above worldly pursuits. San Toi Leng embodies these stories, reminding us of the pursuit of immortality and the virtues celebrated in Chinese folklore.