Windy Shao

windysjf@hotmail.com

VENTURING from the bustling city of Shenzhen, I found myself captivated by the allure of snowy landscapes, a longing that led me to the enchanting snowscapes of Mangshan Mountain in Chenzhou, Hunan Province.

With whispers of an approaching cold wave, I closely tracked the weather, waiting for the perfect moment. When Chenzhou’s temperature dropped to a crisp 2-3 degrees Celcuis, I knew it was time. The mountain air surely held the promise of -2 to -3 degrees, setting the stage for an unforgettable encounter with snow and frost.

Eager and brimming with excitement, my family embarked on a predawn journey by car on Jan. 27. After a five-hour drive, Mangshan’s foothills finally welcomed us.

Mangshan Mountain, initially appearing as a challenging climb with a height of more than 1,900 meters, surprised me with a thoughtful approach to mountain exploration.

We boarded a cable car after several minutes’ drive of a shuttle bus. The ascent was nothing short of magical. As we ascended, the mountain transitioned through the seasons, painting a picture of lush greenery turning into a winter wonderland of frost and snow.

Reaching an altitude of more than 1,000 meters, a breathtaking spectacle of rime ice unfolded before us, resembling a masterpiece of ice and snow.

Disembarking from the cable car, we stepped into a snowy world reminiscent of Northeast China, surrounded by a fantastical winter realm. A meandering walkway stretched for kilometers, offering a smooth and delightful path. The picturesque beauty of ice and snow compelled me to pause frequently, savoring each moment through admiring glances and souvenir photographs. With thoughtful handrails and elevators strategically placed for any challenging inclines, the journey remained enjoyable, very friendly to those who are not good at climbing mountains.

The landscape transformed into a winter wonderland, where every tree branch was adorned with delicate rime, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty.

Strolling along the walkway, the mesmerizing rime ice captivated me. Tree branches cloaked in frost resembled glistening jade, shimmering under the sunlight like scenes from a dream. Inhaling the crisp, invigorating air, I embraced the serenity and beauty of this icy domain, overwhelmed by nature’s exquisite artistry.

Convenient elevators and escalators facilitated seamless exploration of the diverse scenic wonders. Each step along the trail revealed captivating rime ice vistas, where nature’s meticulous craftsmanship adorned every tree branch with delicate ice crystals, casting a spellbinding gleam under the sun’s embrace,  a sight truly beyond words.

Mangshan National Forest Park

Mangshan National Forest Park, named after the presence of pythons and expansive forest cover, is situated in the Nanling Mountains at the border of Hunan and Guangdong provinces. Located in Yizhang County, Chenzhou City, this park boasts pristine subtropical primeval secondary forest and evergreen broad-leaf forest. Encompassing 6,000 hectares, the park hosts plant species from both northern and southern regions, with over 1,700 plant varieties, including some national first-class protective rarity. The park is also a habitat to around 300 animal species, among them the yellow-bellied tragopan, golden cat, and python, all receiving first-class State protection. Renowned for its lush biodiversity and copious rainfall, the park is revered as a “Gene Bank of Biology” by experts worldwide.

Nearby, the indigenous Yao minority resides, showcasing exquisite dwellings with intricately designed roofs, finished wood windows, and ornate picture plaques adorning the main gates, reflecting a distinctive blend of primitive charm and elegance. Their attire, adorned with intricate embroidery, exudes a simple yet beautiful aesthetic. The annual King Pan Festival, marked by fasting and singing competitions in honor of King Pan, embodies rich folk traditions.

Motianling Elevator

Mangshan features two entrances, the East Gate and the West Gate, equipped with escalators and elevators, notably including the renowned Motianling Elevator.

Reaching a towering height of 150 meters, roughly equivalent to 50 stories, the elevator operates at a speed of around 3 meters per second, propelling riders to the mountaintop within approximately 50 seconds.

Featuring a transparent glass design, the elevator offers a visually captivating experience, seemingly gliding above a sea of clouds. Passenger journeys provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding natural beauty, transporting them through an enchanting ascent reminiscent of a dreamlike paradise.

Tips for ice splendor

The period from November to February of the succeeding year marks the prime season for the mesmerizing rime ice spectacle at Mangshan, with December to February offering the most spectacular displays.