Cherry Valley Sign Sculpture

Tucked away in the western outskirts of Beijing, the Cherry Valley Sign Sculpture awaits discovery. The Cherry Valley itself is a place of tranquil beauty. It lies within the Beijing Botanical Garden. Once known as the “End of Water” during the Ming Dynasty and later as “Retreat Valley” in the Qing Dynasty, it’s the name “Cherry Valley” that truly captured the imagination. A poem once described the valley: “With thousands of cherry blossomed in spring; People want to see the beautiful view eagerly.” Although the cherry blossoms may not be as numerous today, the poetic name persists. The Cherry Valley Sign Sculpture stands as a testament to this enduring name. The valley itself is a haven for nature lovers. A small artificial reservoir feeds brooks and cascades. Strange rock formations line a rushing brook. Pools along the stream offer spots for swimming and fish rearing. Wildflowers and fragrant grasses flourish. A bubbling spring trickles through rocky crevices. The Cherry Valley is more than just a beautiful landscape. It holds remnants of history. A stone cliff bears the inscription “Lu Shu Xian Ji, Tui Gu You Qi”. A small white marble bridge, relocated from Prince Duan’s mansion, graces the valley. The bridge is named “Red Star Bridge” by Guo Moruo. The valley also houses the “Deer Crag Lodge”. Visitors can ascend a stone stairway, pass through a small gate, and explore the Cherry Valley Garden. Cabins and bowers nestle among the trees. Earthen terraces mark the stony slopes. Bamboos sway in the wind, and wildflowers abound. The scene resembles a finely drawn Chinese painting. The Cherry Valley Sign Sculpture serves as a marker for this hidden gem. It invites visitors to explore the valley’s natural beauty and historical whispers.