Ningxiang Fragrant Hills National Forest Park (), formerly known as Phoenix Mountain National Forest Park, is a national forest park located in the town of Xiaduopu, Ningxiang, Hunan, China.
History Ningxiang Fragrant Hills National Forest Park was officially established in December 2009, when it successfully applied for and was designated as a National Forest Park. Prior to this, it had been incorporated into the development plans of the Changsha Dahexi Pilot Zone as a key construction project, aiming to build it into a core green space and a renowned eco-tourism resort.
The region has been home to many notable figures throughout history. It is the birthplace of several prominent individuals, including Tao Runai, a talented scholar of the late Ming and early Qing dynasties renowned for his poetry, calligraphy, and writing, who was later known as one of the "Three Wonders of Chu". His son, Tao Zhidian, was a poet, medical scientist, and a secretary in the Grand Secretariat of the Qing dynasty (1644–1911). The area also boasts the unique distinction in Ningxiang's history of a "family of two Jinshi" (successful candidates in the imperial examination), namely Tong Hui () and his son Tóng Xiùchūn (), with the latter being a teacher to the influential official Zhang Zhidong. Additionally, several military leaders such as Huang Wanpeng, Huang Yue, Hong Zhaolin, and Hong Xing were born here.
Geography Geology Ningxiang Fragrant Hills National Forest Park is part of the Heng Mountains remnant range. It begins at Huangmao Ridge and winds along the borders of several counties, featuring a series of hills including Lion Mountain (), Fairy Maiden Ridge (), Small Fish Ridge (), and Big Boundary Ridge ().
Climate Ningxiang Fragrant Hills National Forest Park is located in the mid-subtropical humid climate zone, characterized by abundant rainfall year-round and a pleasant climate.
Flora and fauna Ningxiang Fragrant Hills National Forest Park has been confirmed to host 23 species of national key protected plants. The forest landscape changes dramatically with the seasons. One of the famous scenic spots is the "Bamboo Forest and Sea of Clouds" (竹林云海), indicating extensive bamboo growth.
Ningxiang Fragrant Hills National Forest Park is home to 14 species of national key protected animals.
Scenic spots Ningxiang Fragrant Hills National Forest Park is divided into three main scenic areas: Xiangshanchong Reservoir (), Dragon Phoenix Gorge (), and Jijia Hill ().
Some of the most renowned sights include:
Bamboo Forest and Clouds Sea (): a picturesque area known for its bamboo groves and cloud formations.
Fragrant Hills Misty Rain (): a scenic spot likely named for its atmospheric conditions.
Chessboard Giant Rock (): a notable large rock formation.
Pagoda Sacred Tree (): a revered tree, often associated with local lore.
Xianggu Pond Waterfall (): a waterfall, contributing to the park's dynamic hydrology.
Lying Horse Trough (): a site associated with ancient battlefield legends.
Other historically significant sites include the Han dynasty stone carvings, Jingma Bridge, and the ancient post road.
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