The Rooster Crest Peaks

Jiguan Lazi, also known as Rooster Crest Peaks, is located in Jiguanlazi Village, Shisidaogou Town, Changbai County. It is merely 50 kilometres from the county seat and 5 kilometres from the entrance of the Wangtian'e Scenic Area. The site gets its name from a row of jagged rock peaks along and in the Yalu River that closely resemble the comb of a rooster.

Originally part of the Shisidaogou Ridge, the southern section was severed from the main range, forming the Rooster Crest Rock Island. The terrain slopes gently downward from north to south until it reaches the riverbank of the Yalu River.

The rock formation stretches into an oblong shape, with its highest point reaching 725 metres above sea level. The mountain ridge tapers upward, and the jagged peak tops line up in an irregular sawtooth pattern, standing by the river just like a giant rooster’s comb. The Yalu River winds its way from east to west, then turns south and continues westward past the rocks. Viewed from a distance, the whole formation looks exactly like a rooster bending down to drink water. The mountain casts its reflection on the smooth river surface, merging mountains and water into an ethereal fairyland, earning it the laudatory title "Little Guilin of Changbai".

In spring and summer, the brown rocky cliffs are half-hidden by blooming azaleas, mountain roses and other wildflowers in full blossom, making the ridge look even more like a huge rooster comb. When September arrives, autumn paints the mountain red with blood-red maple leaves, turning the rock crest into that of a laying hen. In winter, the formation presents a striking two-toned landscape full of wit and charm. The sunlit slope is completely free of snow, while the shaded side is buried under knee-deep drifts. Ancient pines stand tall against the snow on the crest, showcasing the imposing vigour of the peaks.

The scenery perfectly unites mountains and rivers. Strolling along the Yalu River beneath the peaks, you will enjoy an open view that harmonizes beautifully with the idyllic rural scenery of Jiguanlazi Village on the bank. Countless submerged reefs dot the river like inlaid gemstones on a green carpet, shimmering amid thin mist. Strange peaks, grotesque rocks, blue skies, white clouds, blooming flowers and green pines all cast vivid reflections in the water. The whole landscape is filled with poetic and picturesque beauty.

Rafting is another wonderful way to appreciate the scenery. As the rubber boat glides gently through Jiguan Gorge, you cannot help recalling the famous poetic line: While monkeys cry along both banks,

the light boat has sailed past ten thousand mountains