Jinshan Ecological Scenic Area is situated in the mountainous southern part of Jingxing County, 80 kilometers away from Shijiazhuang, the provincial capital. Renowned for its lush woods, extraordinary peaks, graceful waters and emerald lakes, it covers a total area of 160 square kilometers.
Relying on the Nansizhang natural secondary forest and Gantao Lake, known as the Pearl of North China, Jinshan enjoys the reputations of a natural oxygen bar and the Three Gorges of the North. Just as the line goes, "Hidden deep in remote mountains, unknown to the world; revealed at last, it unfolds boundless charm", it has emerged as a rising star for landscape and eco-tourism, and is hailed as Hebei’s No.1 Ecological Mountain.
The area is home to more than 180 plant species, with a forest coverage rate of 98.5% and a woodland area of 88 square kilometers. In spring and summer, azaleas send forth delicate fragrance and wild blossoms brighten the hills. Lush meadows stretch far and dense canopies block the sunlight, presenting a world of greenery, poetic charm and vibrant hues everywhere. After autumn frosts, smoke tree leaves blaze like fire and rosy clouds, dyeing valleys and hillsides red, perfectly embodying the poetic line "A thousand mountains clad in crimson, layer upon layer of forests dyed red". In the depth of winter, icicles adorn pine trees and the land is wrapped in a vast expanse of silvery white. The scenery transforms with the seasons, always delightful to behold.
At 1,274 meters above sea level, Imperial Brush Peak is the highest summit in Jingxing. Hiking up the stone steps, you will climb cloud ladders, pass thundering waterfalls, traverse perilous cliffs, walk along plank roads and wander through dense forests. Every step brings a new view and a pleasant delight, refreshing the mind and lifting the spirits. Standing atop the peak and looking down, you see rolling green mountains like surging waves, shrouded in swirling mist, while the rustle of pines echoes all around. A surge of heroic spirit arises spontaneously, echoing the sentiment: "Heaven has endowed me with talents for eventual use; I shall command rivers and mountains for ages to come."
South of Imperial Brush Peak lies an alpine meadow spanning nearly 100 mu.
As far as the eye can see, green grass spreads like soft carpets dotted with blooming wild flowers, and birds sing melodiously among the ridges. You may sit on the grass, chat freely or breathe in the fresh air, bathing in pure joy.
As an old poem puts it, "Viewed sideways, it forms a range; viewed head-on, a peak. Its looks vary from near, far, high and low." Every angle of Jinshan offers brand-new insights and enjoyment. Don’t miss the 200-meter-tall Gantao Buddha facing south, the exquisite Beauty Peak shaped by nature’s craftsmanship amid mist, as well as Split Blade Gorge, Cloud-crossing Bridge, Hibiscus Stockade and Immortal Archer. These scenic spots broaden your mind and purify your soul, letting you marvel at the wonders of nature in quiet reflection.
Mountains prevail while waters are scarce in northern China, especially in Jingxing. What makes Jinshan truly extraordinary is not only its striking mountains, but also its graceful and serene springs.
Green Dragon Lake is like a jade pearl inlaid among the mountains. As the verse describes, "Rippling waters mirror mountain views; mist veils the lake, where immortals seem to linger." Countless springs feed the lake, whose clear water runs gently. The pristine waters nurture Jinshan river crabs, freshwater shrimps and ecological fish. A sip of the spring water is crisp, cool and soothing to the heart.
Green Dragon Lake is also famous for the under-construction Zhanghewan Reservoir. The upper reservoir of the pumped storage power station has a water storage capacity of 8 million cubic meters, earning it the name Heavenly Lake of the Taihang Mountains. In the future, roaring waterfalls plunging down will create a spectacular scene like a silver river falling at sunset. Additionally, the scenic area features a 6,000-mu natural bathing beach, a 10-kilometer mountain stream drifting route and a four-star lakeside resort, making Jinshan a genuine water park.
Jinshan boasts top-tier reception capacity and service facilities, including a star-rated hotel. It provides standard double rooms, luxury suites, meeting rooms of various specifications, thoughtful hospitality and delicious cuisine, making every visitor feel right at home. Moreover, various farmhouse experiences, such as staying in local courtyards and tasting home-cooked meals, allow tourists to relax and embrace rural tranquility.
Jinshan earns its name Jin (Splendid) for its magnificent mountains and Xiu (Graceful) for its limpid waters. It embodies the beauty of natural ecology and blends profound humanity and poetry. You will surely be captivated by its pure charm and abundant scenery.