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Enjoy the picturesque Crescent Moon Pond, known for its crescent shape, surrounded by lush greenery. Take a boat ride to appreciate the scenic views, walk along the pond's edge, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s also a great spot for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset when the reflections on the water are stunning.
Crescent Moon Pond is located over 10 meters northeast of Jiuzi Temple. Built in the 1960s by Monk Kongyou while digging for medicinal herbs and storing firewood, the pond ingeniously utilized valley rocks and springs to create a scenic beauty for the world to admire, hoping that future generations will carry on this legacy and beautify the region.
Several blue lotuses rise gracefully from the surface of the Crescent Moon Pond, their beauty extraordinary. The crescent pond, a world beyond the water, offers a unique experience. A small stone arch bridge spans north and south at the pond's entrance. In the center, a three-story stone pagoda stands on the back of a golden turtle (a duck-shaped water turtle), housing a statue of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. Nearby, a reclining ox stone gazes westward at the moon on the opposite bank, earning it the name "Rhinoceros Looking at the Moon." At the turn of spring and summer, weeping willows sway along the pond's banks, and lotus leaves flutter within. At night, "the bright moon shines through the pines, and clear springs flow over the rocks."
Fifty meters northeast of the pond stand two towering, thousand-year-old trees: a red maple and a fragrant elm. With a trunk diameter of 2 meters, a massive crown, and lush foliage, the maple trees are the symbol of Jiuzi Rock, hence the name Jiuzi Maple. A stele of poems by monk Kongyou stands beside the pond. One of his poems captures the unique artistic conception of the Crescent Moon Pond: "Divine frogs gather by the pond's edge, ripples swirl in the clear spring water. A rhinoceros turns back to gaze at the bright moon, a golden tortoise seeks enlightenment while diving. A stone bridge glistens like a rainbow, ancient maples and cypresses reach the clouds. Waterfalls cascade like pythons playing in the deep valley; only by visiting here can one truly experience the bliss of paradise." The poem, imbued with Zen, is truly thought-provoking.
Subtropical monsoon climate; Crescent Moon Pond is located in the Jiuziyan Scenic Area with pleasant climate, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural relics, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
The Crescent Moon Pond is located in the Jiuziyan Scenic Area. In addition to the Crescent Moon Pond, you can also visit the Jiuzi Temple, Jiuzi Peak, and Daxing Flesh Hall.
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
No tickets are required, it is included in the ticket for Jiuziyan Scenic Area
8:00-17:00
Crescent Moon Pond is a famous natural landmark in Chizhou, Anhui. Its unique crescent shape has made it a symbol of beauty and tranquility in the region. The pond holds cultural significance as a site of natural beauty and is often associated with local legends and stories. It attracts both tourists and locals for its peaceful environment and picturesque views.
Crescent Moon Pond is located in Chizhou, Anhui. You can reach it by taxi or private car from the city center. Public buses are also available, though they might take longer. Walking around the pond is a delightful experience, as it offers a scenic route to explore the surrounding area.
The pond is open all day, with no specific opening or closing hours. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the surroundings are more peaceful. Sunrise and sunset offer the best opportunities for photography.
There is no entrance fee for Crescent Moon Pond. It is open to the public for free. However, some activities like boat rides may have a small fee, which can be paid on-site.
No advance booking is required. Visitors can simply show up and enjoy the attraction, with boat rides and other services available on-site.
It takes about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore Crescent Moon Pond, depending on your pace. You can walk around the pond, enjoy the views, and take a boat ride to explore the area from the water.
The main highlight is the crescent-shaped pond itself, surrounded by beautiful nature. The best areas for photos include the water's edge and the viewpoints overlooking the pond. The boat ride also provides stunning views of the entire area.
Guided tours may be available through local operators, though they are not always guaranteed. Audio guides are not typically offered, so it’s a good idea to bring a guidebook or research the area beforehand.
The best viewpoints are from the walking paths around the pond, especially at the north and south ends. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best lighting for photography, with the reflection of the crescent-shaped pond creating beautiful photos.
Start at the main entrance and walk along the pond’s edge, enjoying the scenery. Take a boat ride if available, and explore the surrounding nature trails. Spend some time at the best viewpoints for photography, and then enjoy a peaceful moment by the water before leaving.
There are no light shows or special tours at Crescent Moon Pond, but the pond looks beautiful in the evening as the sun sets. A night visit is peaceful and offers a unique experience of the area under the stars.
Crescent Moon Pond is not typically crowded, but weekends and holidays can see an increase in visitors. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays or during off-peak seasons.
There are basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas around the pond. However, there are no large shops or food stalls at the pond itself, so it’s recommended to bring your own snacks or drinks. Nearby Chizhou offers various food options.
The main paths around the pond are relatively accessible, though some areas may have uneven terrain. It’s a suitable destination for elderly visitors and children, but wheelchair access may be limited in certain areas.
Cash is typically accepted for boat rides and small purchases. Mobile payments and cards may be accepted in some areas nearby, but it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand just in case.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly at Crescent Moon Pond, but nearby Chizhou has many local restaurants offering Anhui cuisine. You can find both casual dining and more formal options in the city.
Vegetarian food is commonly available in the region, especially at local restaurants. Halal food options are available in some restaurants in Chizhou, but it may be less common near the pond.
There are several hotels in Chizhou city center, ranging from budget to mid-range. Many visitors prefer staying in the city for easy access to other attractions and dining options.
Nearby attractions include Jiuhua Mountain, known for its Buddhist significance, and the Tongling Scenic Area. These can be easily combined into a day trip from Crescent Moon Pond.
There are no souvenir shops directly at Crescent Moon Pond, but you can find local crafts, Buddhist-related items, and Anhui souvenirs in nearby Chizhou markets and shops.
After visiting Crescent Moon Pond, you can take a taxi, bus, or private car to continue your journey. Chizhou Railway Station offers convenient access for train travel to other cities in Anhui or beyond.
