Introduction of the Welcoming Pine
The Welcoming Pine is the most famous landmark of the Yellow Mountain, located just outside the Yupinlou Hotel. Facing it is the most challenging hiking route, leading to the Tiandu Peak, a rewarding spot for watching the sunrise. Not far from the pine, there's also a perfect place for enjoying the sunset.
Huangshan Pine - The Essence of Chinese Pine
The Guest-Greeting Pine ranks first among the Four Wonders of Huangshan (the other three are oddly-shaped rocks, seas of clouds, and hot springs). Pine trees are dotted all over the seventy-two peaks of Mount Huangshan, like a magic brush, adding color to the mountain. Huangshan pines are famous for their bizarre shapes. When it comes to pine trees, what comes to your mind? Is it usually upright? Huangshan pine will give you more options. During your trip to Mount Huangshan, you can not only see the towering and straight pine trees, but also see the crouching black tigers, elegant harps, and vigorous dragons. No wonder the ancients said: "The beauty of Huangshan begins with pine trees."
Why are the Huangshan Pines Twisted and Knotted?
The Huangshan pine is a variety of Masson pine formed by the unique topography and climate of the Yellow Mountain. The seeds of Huangshan pine can be carried by the wind to the crevices of granite, where they germinate, take root, and grow. Due to the lack of soil, the roots of pine trees constantly secrete an organic acid, which can slowly dissolve rocks and decompose mineral salts for their own use. Therefore, their roots usually penetrate deep into the granite, sometimes dozens of times longer than the trunk, and only in this way can they stand upright on the sloping rock. Due to the rugged terrain and harsh climate, some pine trees cannot grow vertically, but grow curvedly, even downwards, with branches growing on one side only. To withstand wind, rain and frost, Huangshan pine has developed short, thick leaves, flat crowns and tough trunks. All these difficulties have made the Huangshan pine more tenacious, beautiful and peculiar.
This is why Chinese people love Huangshan pine so much. It is more than a tree, but a spiritual symbol. The mountains didn't give them much to grow, but they made the mountains more attractive and vibrant. They show a spirit of self-reliance and dedication. It is an indomitable spirit for them to survive and multiply under such natural conditions.
Location: 300 Meters from the Upper Station of Yuping Cable Car, Front Mountain
On the east side of Yuping Peak stands the Welcoming Pine, which is over 800 years old. It is about 10 meters high. Two large lateral branches of 7.6 meters grow forward from the middle of the trunk, like a hospitable host waving his arms to warmly welcome guests from home and abroad to visit Huangshan. It stands firm, humble and courteous, yet neither servile nor overbearing. This lovely welcoming pine is representative of the pines in Huangshan and even Anhui Province. The huge iron painting "Welcoming Pine" displayed in the Anhui Hall of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing was created based on its image. Today, the Welcoming Pine has become a famous symbol of the Chinese nation's hospitality and love for peace.
FAQ
What is the significance of the Welcoming Pine?
The Welcoming Pine is more than just a tree; it's a symbol of hospitality, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Chinese people. It embodies the ability to thrive in challenging conditions and extend a welcoming hand to all.
Why is the Welcoming Pine so famous?
Its unique shape, resembling a host welcoming guests with open arms, combined with its location at the Yellow Mountain, a site of natural beauty and cultural significance, has made it an iconic landmark of China.
Are there other notable pine trees on Yellow Mountain?
Yes, the Yellow Mountain is renowned for its uniquely shaped pines. While the Welcoming Pine is the most famous, there are numerous other pines with evocative names and appearances, each adding to the mountain's charm.
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