Huanglong's Five-Color Pools, a Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter

Today, our group set off for Huanglong Scenic Area. Unable to endure the 8-hour bumpy bus ride, we opted for the high-speed train and, by chance, experienced first-class seats for the first time. Upon arrival, we learned that the bus group was stranded midway due to flood-damaged roads. We decided to proceed to Huanglong first. After taking the cable car, we ascended along the wooden walkway, strolling under blue skies and white clouds, through dense forests, listening to babbling streams and birdsong, breathing in the mountain breeze and the scent of fresh grass. Unknowingly, we arrived at a temple with four large characters inscribed: "Huanglong Ancient Temple," said to be the meditation site of the Taoist immortal Huanglong. A fascinating detail of the plaque is that viewed from the left, it reads "Mountain Emptiness, Blue Waters," and from the right, "Flying Pavilion, Flowing Red," showcasing ingenious design—a highlight of Huanglong. As altitude sickness slowly set in—dizziness, headache, and a racing heart—we rested briefly at the service center before continuing. At around 3,500 meters above sea level, the Five-Color Pools finally came into view. These tiered pools and cascading waterfalls, resembling terraced fields, varied in shape: some like lotus flowers, others like lotus leaves. Due to the interplay of sunlight with the whitish travertine and algae on the lakebeds, the pools shimmered in a dazzling array of colors. The clear weather made it the perfect time to admire them. Though fed by the same source, each pool displayed unique hues, a testament to nature's artistry in sculpting this "Jade Pool on Earth." Surrounded by emerald peaks, verdant slopes, dark forests, and snow-capped mountains, I stood transfixed, gazing as if transported to a celestial realm, lost in an ethereal illusion. This golden autumn encounter, fleeting as morning dew, could not grant me endless days together. I know in the years ahead, I’ll visit many places and behold countless sights—yet even if I traverse all the world’s wonders, none will ever quite compare to you.