Plum Blossom Hall

Plum Blossom Hall in Xiangshan is located near the parking lot at the top of Xiangshan Scenic Area. It consists of two rows of single-story buildings connected by a long corridor, featuring dark tile roofs and gray walls, exuding a simple and dignified charm. The great Song Dynasty literary master Su Dongpo once stopped and stayed here. In the center of the front hall, slightly towards the back, there is a folding screen with a plaque above it inscribed with "Fragrance Gives Birth to a Cluster of Jade." On the dark red pillars on both sides, a couplet is carved: "Spring follows the fragrant grass, blooming for a thousand years; people are as pure as plum blossoms." In front of the screen is a portrait of Xu Xiake, with an inscription on the base explaining Xu Xiake's connection to Xiangshan. The folding screen in the rear hall features a large relief depicting the main scenic spots of Xiangshan. Under the eaves behind Plum Blossom Hall, there is also a plaque featuring calligraphy by Emperor Qianlong, recording his words: "The river and sky are of one color." On both sides, there is another couplet: "The old poet does not know the style of plum blossoms, but looks instead at the green leaves and branches." Behind the building is a pond with clear rippling water, said to be the pool where Su Dongpo washed his inkstone and brushes after writing poetry and painting, known as the "Inkstone Washing Pool."

Post by ElizabethMcDermott | Oct 23, 2025