Happy TravellerWelcome to Zhaobao Mountain, a picturesque scenic area located on the north bank near the mouth of the Yong River at the east end of the town of Zhenhai, 12 miles (19 km) northeast of the city of Ningbo. Zhaobao Mountain (simplified Chinese: 招宝山; traditional Chinese: 招寶山; pinyin: Zhāobǎo Shān; Wu: Cio-Pau Sae) is also known as Zhaobao Mount or Zhaobao Hill. The mountain is named after the sea god Zhāobǎo Qīláng, a forerunner of the more recent sea deity Qianliyan, a subordinate of the goddess Mazu.
The Zhaobao Mount Scenic Area is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The walking trails on and around the hill offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and there are numerous sites to explore during a visit. One of the oldest features of the hill is the Sanskrit rock carvings, including a Buddhist prayer chant. Visitors can also marvel at the 57.6-metre-tall (189 ft) seven-story Aozhu Pagoda, which offers stunning panoramic views of the area.
Another highlight of the Zhaobao Mount Scenic Area is the Weiyuan City Wall, which was built during the Ming Dynasty. The wall is 2,000-foot-long (610 m) and 10-foot-thick (3.0 m), and it is a testament to the engineering prowess of the ancient Chinese. The even older Zhenhai Seawall, originally built in 897 CE during the Tang Dynasty, is also worth a visit.
For those interested in Chinese mythology, the Tianhou Temple is dedicated to the Heavenly Empress (see also Mazu), while the Guanyin Pavilion is dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy (see also Guan Yin). Both temples are beautifully decorated and offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of China.
At the foot of the hill is the Zhenhai Coastal Defense Museum, which is a must-visit for history buffs. Exhibits include the war against Japanese pirates during the Ming Dynasty, the Battle of Zhenhai in 1885 (see also Sino-French War), and the modern Chinese navy.
Getting to the Zhaobao Mount Scenic Area is easy. Visitors can take bus 541 from Ningbo city, and the ride takes approximately 50 minutes. Standard tickets are 60 yuan per person, and they offer access to all the major attractions in the area.
In conclusion, Zhaobao Mountain is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Zhaobao Mountain is the perfect destination for you. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to one of China’s most enchanting destinations.
