Elephant Trunk Hill, Natural hill in Xiangshan District, China
Elephant Trunk Hill is a limestone formation about 200 meters tall where the Li River and Taohua River meet, shaped like an elephant bending down to drink water. A natural arch separates the trunk from the body, creating a distinctive visual feature you notice from different angles around the hill.
This hill became important during the Tang Dynasty, when travelers and Buddhist monks made it a destination for their journeys. The stone carvings left behind show how the site drew people seeking spiritual and cultural meaning over the centuries.
The Water Moon Cave holds stone inscriptions from centuries past, showing how scholars and travelers left their marks on this sacred site. You can still see these carved characters today, revealing the personal connections people felt to this place.
You can reach the hill easily by bus, with several lines stopping directly at Xiangshan Park station near the site. The paths to the top and main viewing spots are well-marked, making it simple to explore the arch and water views at your own pace.
When water conditions align during certain lunar phases, the natural arch creates a double moon reflection instead of just one. This rare optical effect has made the spot a special destination for observers and artists throughout history.
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