The Ancestral Pulse: Journeying to the Weihe River Source

The Cradle of Ancient Civilization

1.The Weihe River: Source is a significant sanctuary where the roots of the Huaxia civilization and the majesty of the West Qinling Mountains converge. Located in Weiyuan County, Dingxi City, Gansu Province, the site serves as the primary birthplace of the Wei River, the largest tributary of the Yellow River. Spanning an elevation of 2,000 to 3,000 meters, the source represents a critical node in the cultural and geographical landscape of Northwest China.

The Legend of Niaoshu Mountain

The heart of the scenic area is defined by Niaoshu Mountain (Bird and Rat Mountain), a peak recorded in ancient classics such as the Classic of Mountains and Seas and the Book of Documents. The mountain is famous for the curious legend of "Bird and Rat in the Same Hole," a phenomenon where birds and rats were said to share burrows in the high-altitude terrain, symbolizing a mystical harmony with nature. This landmark has served as a cultural beacon for thousands of years, drawing scholars and explorers to witness the "Bird and Rat Cave".

Dayu’s Legacy and the Sanyuan Springs

Culturally, the site is anchored by the Dayu Temple, which commemorates the legendary Yu the Great and his monumental efforts in flood control and river management. The physical source itself consists of the Sanyuan Springs (Three Source Springs), where clear, potable water bubbles up from the mountain depths to begin a nearly 800-kilometer journey through the Guanzhong Plain. This interaction between the physical springs and the ancient shrines creates a unique atmosphere of spiritual reverence and historical depth.

Vertical Ecosystems and Highland Beauty

Ecologically, the Weihe River Source offers a spectacular display of vertical ecosystems. Visitors can witness the landscape transition from dense alpine forests and shrublands to expansive high-altitude meadows filled with seasonal wildflowers. This environment remains one of the most pristine parts of the Loess Plateau transition zone, offering travelers a rare look at the unblemished natural beauty that has sustained Chinese civilization since its inception.