The mountains of Taining hold many caves, and in ancient times the ancestors of the locals lived and worked here. In a mountain valley about eight kilometers from the county seat, there is a place known as Li’s Rock, named after the Ming Minister of War Li Chunye. Li and his father constructed a study tower upon the rock, and this later became a temple. Today, the temple is still frequented by locals and tourists, and the passage leading to this revered place is formed by a plank road erected along the cliff. Below is a deep abyss. After a thrilling trek along the plank road, you will come to a small gate at the end of the path. Opening the gate, you will see a large rock cave. This is Li Chunye’s legendary place of study.

A narrow lane bordered by the courtyard wall of the Ming Dynasty Minister of War, Li Chunye.

Danxia landforms provide abundant resources to the people living on this land. Thanks to the idyllic scenery and pristine folk customs, the countryside of Taining is highly praised by visitors; described by many as a sort of Xanadu. During my visit, I was warmly welcomed by local farmers, who gifted me with freshly brewed tea and a spacious room to rest. One drizzling day, to photograph the blooming azaleas carpeting the mountain, I scaled Emei Peak. While taking a break on the hillside, a tiny woman approached. She carried a shoulder-pole fully loaded with bamboo shoots. I requested that she pause, then asked if I could have a try at the pole. So allowed, I put all my strength into lifting the pole – and failed. She laughed. Then she invited me to her home workshop, where she demonstrated the entire process of preparing and preserving the bamboo shoots. According to her, the preserved bamboo will remain good until winter, or even spring of the next year. When I departed, she cut off the most tender tips of the shoots for me, and those added much flavor to my supper that night.