An ancient ginkgo tree and the Huzhu Pagoda stand out on the mountainside. The two have accompanied each other for hundreds of years, and it is said that the ginkgo tree is the giant palm of the god of mountains that holds up the Huzhu Pagoda. [Photo/WeChat ID: sheshanlvyou]
The landscape of Tianmashan Mountain is beautified by a ginkgo tree with a history of more than 700 years that stands on the mountain's side with a towering and golden appearance.
The ginkgo tree is the oldest tree found in Shanghai Sheshan National Tourist Resort, and Tianmashan Mountain has the highest peak in the resort.
It is said that the tree was planted by General Zhou Wenda during the Song Dynasty (960-1279), and despite centuries of ups and downs, the tree has continued to thrive.
Next to the tree is the famous Huzhu Pagoda, which is known for surpassing the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy in terms of age and tilt. The pagoda and the tree have accompanied each other for a long time. Local legend has it that the tree is the giant palm of the god of mountains, which ensures that the pagoda doesn't fall over.
The ancient pagoda was built in 1079 during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127) by a military general and tilts to the southeast at an angle of 7.1 degrees. Italy's Leaning Tower of Pisa was built in 1173 and its tilt is nearly 4 degrees.
With a height of about 18.8 meters, the seven-floor octagonal pagoda is made of wood, mortar and bricks, and is located halfway up Tianmashan Mountain. Currently, the pagoda is a heritage site under the protection of the Shanghai government.
Tianmashan Mountain boasts a pleasant ecological system, beautiful natural scenery, and rich cultural heritages. In ancient times, there were many Buddhist palaces and temples on the mountain. The bamboo groves and diverse plant species on the mountain create fresh and vibrant scenery, which attract crowds of visitors from across the country every year.
Leaves on the ancient ginkgo tree turn bright gold. [Photo/WeChat ID: sheshanlvyou]
A view of the ancient ginkgo tree and the ancient pagoda from the ground. [Photo/WeChat ID: sheshanlvyou]
