Green Zen Rhymes: A Poetic Journey Through Xiqiao Mountain—A Famous Mountain in Lingnan

❤When morning mist drapes the seventy-two peaks in cicada-wing-like veils, I climb the ancient Qiao Mountain path, stepping on moss-covered stones. Osmanthus trees shake off dewdrops, and suddenly a mountain bird flies by, awakening the sleeping Yuyan Academy. The upturned eaves and corners appear and disappear among the dappled tree shadows, like amber crystallized from a thousand years of time. ❤Arriving at the Leafless Well, a moss-covered stone tablet is inscribed with the characters "Cleanse the Heart." Drawing water to wash my hands, the cool freshness penetrates to my bones. Suddenly, I hear Buddhist bells drifting from the depths of Tianhu Lake, interweaving with mountain streams to create natural chimes. The stone-cutting traces at Shiyan Rock are like Buddha's handprints branded on the cliff, and the chiseling sounds of stonemasons from six hundred years ago seem to still echo in the empty valley. ❤The sandalwood fragrance of Baofeng Temple makes me pause. At the temple gate, kapok petals and ancient banyan roots hang like bead curtains, filtering worldly noise into wisps of blue smoke. The swishing sound of an old monk's bamboo broom blends perfectly with the sound of wind through pine needles. In this moment, even breathing becomes a Zen practice. ❤When I reach the Cloud Sea Lotus Platform, mist is flowing over the golden robes of the Guanyin statue. Looking down, the Pearl River Delta plain spreads out like a chessboard, with Qiao Mountain like a jade paperweight holding down the vast misty landscape. Suddenly I realize that Lingnan's Zen spirit isn't found in isolated steep peaks, but in the green-infused daily practice—stone steps are piano keys, pine waves are sutras, and even rolling beads of sweat become bodhi seeds of enlightenment. Travel Guide: I. Transportation Self-driving Navigate to "Xiqiao Mountain Scenic Area South Gate/North Gate" (South Gate parking is more convenient). About 1 hour drive from Guangzhou/Foshan city center, parking fee approximately 10-20 yuan/day. Public Transportation From Guangzhou: Take the metro to "Guangzhou South Station," transfer to Guangfo Line to "Kuiqi Road Station," then take the "Chancheng—Xiqiao" special bus line to Xiqiao Mountain North Gate. From Foshan City: Take "Qiao 01/Qiao 16" bus directly to Xiqiao Mountain North Gate. High-speed Rail: From Foshan West Station, a taxi to the scenic area takes about 30 minutes, costing around 50 yuan. II. Must-Visit Attractions Nanhai Guanyin Cultural Park Iconic attraction with a 61.9-meter-tall seated Guanyin statue; climb to the top for a panoramic view. Tips: Requires climbing hundreds of steps; comfortable athletic shoes recommended. Baofeng Temple Ming Dynasty ancient temple with strong incense offerings, ideal for quiet prayer. Tianhu Park Lake and mountain scenery perfect for photography; often features dragon and lion dance performances (on holidays). Square Bamboo Garden Rare square-jointed bamboo; quiet garden suitable for strolling. Shiyan Rock Quarry Site Ancient quarry ruins, explore underground rivers and cave wonders. Baiyun Cave Scenic Area Ancient architectural complex blending Confucian, Buddhist, and Taoist cultures; spectacular thousand-foot waterfall. III. Classic Route Planning One-day Tour (Compact Version): North Gate → Shuttle bus to Baofeng Temple → Nanhai Guanyin → Tianhu Park → Square Bamboo Garden → Baiyun Cave → Exit from South Gate. Two-day Tour (In-depth): Day 1: North Gate - Baofeng Temple - Nanhai Guanyin - Shiyan Rock - Stay at guesthouse at the foot of the mountain; Day 2: Baiyun Cave - Wong Fei-hung Lion Dance and Martial Arts Hall - National Arts Film Studio (optional). IV. Food Recommendations Xiqiao Cake Local specialty, soft and sweet, available both inside and outside the scenic area. Mountain Spring Tofu Pudding Freshly made at mountain-top stalls, cool and refreshing. Jiujiang Fried Dumplings Foshan intangible cultural heritage snack, crispy and fragrant. Recommended Farm Restaurants: Wangge Fishing Village: At the foot of Xiqiao Mountain, signature dishes include raw fish and roast goose. Qiaoshun Mountain Villa: Authentic Cantonese cuisine, recommended dish is steamed Xijiang fish. V. Tickets and Opening Hours Admission: 55 yuan/person (including shuttle bus), 5-10 yuan discount for online advance purchase. Opening hours: 7:30-17:30 (last entry at 16:30). Shuttle bus: 20 yuan/person (unlimited rides all day), recommended to save energy. VI. Accommodation Suggestions At the Foot of Xiqiao Mountain Biyun Mountain Cottage (guesthouse, Zen style, 200+ yuan per person). Xiqiao Mountain Hotel (four-star, complete facilities, about 400 yuan/night). Tingyin Lake Area Guanxin Living Lodge (near Tingyin Lake, beautiful night view, about 500 yuan/night). VII. Important Notes Wear non-slip athletic shoes as some mountain paths are steep and damp. In summer, bring mosquito repellent and sun hats, and drink plenty of water. Keep quiet around the Guanyin statue, respect Buddhist customs. Some caves may be closed during rainy days; check the weather forecast before your trip. VIII. Nearby Attractions National Arts Film Studio: Replica ancient buildings, great for traditional-style photos (admission 80 yuan). Fishing and Farming Cantonese Rhymes Cultural Tourism Park: Experience mulberry-dike-fish-pond system, good for family trips. Wong Fei-hung Lion Dance and Martial Arts Hall: Watch lion dance performances (admission 15 yuan).