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In ancient Chinese myths, when Pangu, the god who created the world, died his head transformed into Mount Tai. The traditional Chinese culture consider the direction of east as the place of shifting of everything and the origin of early spring, therefore Mount Tai holds the honor as “No.1 of the top five mountains”. Chinese worshiped Mountain Tai since the ancient history and created the saying as “the nation settles if Mount Tai settles”. Many dynasties carried Fengshan ceremonies and worship ceremonies on Mount Tai in the history of China. There are many temples built on the mountain together with huge stones carved with letters. More than that, refined scholars from different dynasties also showed great admire to Mount Tai and left countless masterpieces about it. There are more than 20 old architecture groups and 2200 carved stones all over the mountain.
The geographical position of Mount Tai and Chinese original religion have worked together to push Mount Tai to the crown. This mountain is in the east of Huabei lowland and faces grand sea, the strong contrast made by height difference has built a visual momentum of “overriding others”. Plus the foundation of Mount Tai is wide and long to generate a stable feeling, phrases in Chinese such as “steady as Mount Tai” or “heavy as Mount Tai” reflect people’s perception both on psychological and physical aspects.
There are many pine trees and cypresses on Mount Tai which accent more the character of the mountain as solemn and lofty. Springs run all over the mountain to additionally embellish the view; besides that changing constantly clouds add even more secret impression to the tourists. In the scenery zone there are 156 peaks, 72 caves, 72 spectacular stones, 130 creek canyons and 72 springs. Human landscapes are also another essential part of Mount Tai as well, for example, 42 ancient relics, 13 ancient tombs, and the old architectures as mentioned above.
In short Mount Tai is not only an astonishing natural view, but also a history book through thousands of years. Taking a tour to Mount Tai is more like taking a tour about the history of China. One can have a chance to explore a concentrated culture journey by experiencing the core essence of Chinese architect, emperors’ handwriting and the very best presentation of Chinese autograph. Climbing Mount Tai is a combination of fun and learning process by which a foreigner should memorize many details for ever.
Shandong’s cuisine is one of the best eight cuisine systems in China, which means to take the journey to Mount Tai will also bring you the pleasure to enjoy the delicious local food at the same time. So be it, it is a journey of multiple joys and Mount Tai welcomes you all the time.