Five Springs Mountain Park (Wuquanshan)

Five Springs Mountain Park, or Wuquanshan, occupies the slope of Wuquan Mountain south of the city centre in Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu province, China. The park is named for five springs that, according to legend, were struck from the rock by the Han general Huo Qubing, who thrust his sword into the ground to water his thirsty army while campaigning against the Xiongnu. Today the hillside is covered with a cluster of temples, pavilions, courtyards, gardens and rock formations, among them the Chongqing Temple and several Buddhist and Taoist halls dating from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Paths and stairways rise through the grounds, passing the springs themselves, a bronze bell and small shrines. Visitors can wander at a relaxed pace, climb to the upper terraces for views over the city and Yellow River valley, and rest in tea gardens beside the water. A typical visit lasts two to three hours. There is a modest entry fee, quoted at about ¥6 in older guides, while some temples and the small amusement area charge extra. The park opens from about 06:30 to 18:30 and is popular with locals who exercise there early in the morning. The best photo angles are from the upper pavilions looking across the city and from the temple courtyards framed by old trees. Spring blossom and autumn colour are the prettiest seasons. Crowds peak on weekends and holidays, particularly around the temples; early mornings are quiet. Bus 8 and taxis from Dongfanghong Square reach the entrance in about ten minutes.