Peak of the First Mountain: Exploring the Taoist Wonders of Kongtong Mountain

The Cradle of Taoist Wisdom

Located 12 kilometers west of Pingliang City in Gansu Province, Kongtong Mountain is historically revered as the "First Mountain of Taoism". It stands at a strategic position, bordering the Liupan Mountains to the west and overlooking the vast Qinlan plains to the east. The mountain reaches an altitude between 1,456 and 2,123.5 meters and is embraced by the Jing and Yazhi rivers. As a National 5A scenic area and a National Geopark, it serves as a premier destination for those seeking spiritual heritage and natural grandeur.

A Legacy of the Yellow Emperor

The mountain’s most significant cultural identity stems from the legend of the Yellow Emperor, who traveled here to seek wisdom. It is said that the Emperor visited the immortal Guangchengzi on these slopes to "ask for the Way" (问道), marking a foundational moment in Chinese intellectual history. This association has transformed the mountain into a site of pilgrimage for millennia, symbolizing the pursuit of longevity and governance through natural harmony.

Architectural Splendor and Religious Harmony

Kongtong Mountain is famous for its complex religious architecture, featuring 8 terraces, 9 palaces, 12 courtyards, and 42 building groups. The most prominent structures include the Imperial City (Huangcheng) and the Zhenwu Hall, which were expanded during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Uniquely, the mountain has served as a sanctuary where Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism co-exist. Visitors can explore 72 stone caves that dot the cliffs, many of which house ancient statues and inscriptions.

Natural Danxia Wonders

Geologically, Kongtong Mountain is a branch of the Liupan Mountains characterized by Danxia landforms. Its rugged terrain is composed of hard, purple-red conglomerate rock that has been sculpted by wind and water into dramatic peaks and deep valleys. The "Twelve Scenes of Kongtong" showcase this natural beauty, with highlights such as the Xiangfeng Peak and the Thunder Peak. The dense vegetation and morning mists often give the mountain an ethereal appearance, often compared to an ink-wash painting.