Wuyi Mountains

KITLV - 110104 - Landscape in China - circa 1871

Wuyi Yulu

Wuyishan naturereserve

punting 9bends

Wuyi Shan Fengjing Mingsheng Qu 2012.08.23 17-21-52

大红袍祖庭 - Place of Worship for Dahongpao(Big Red Robe Tea) - 2010.09 - panoramio

Wuyi Mountains (Wuyishan) are a significant range of mountains located in the northern part of Fujian Province, China. The area is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, stunning scenic beauty, and cultural significance. It has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompassing both natural and cultural heritage.

Geography

The Wuyi Mountains stretch over an area of approximately 60,000 hectares. The landscape is characterized by its dramatic gorges, with the Nine Bend River (Jiuqu Xi) winding its way through the mountainous terrain. The highest peak in the range is Mount Huanggang, standing at 2,158 meters above sea level, making it the highest point in southeastern China.

Biodiversity

The region is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. It is recognized as one of the world's most significant temperate zones for plant diversity. The mountains harbor a large number of endemic species and rare species, including the ancient Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides), which was thought to be extinct until it was rediscovered here. The area also supports diverse animal life, including many species that are considered to be rare and endangered.

Cultural Heritage

The Wuyi Mountains have been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Neolithic period. The area is notable for its historical connection to Taoism and the development of Neo-Confucianism, two major Chinese philosophical traditions. Several ancient temples and monasteries, nestled within the mountains, serve as a testament to the region's rich spiritual heritage.

The mountains are also famous for the production of Wuyi tea, particularly the highly prized Da Hong Pao tea, which has a history of cultivation in the area that spans centuries. The traditional methods of tea production in the Wuyi Mountains have been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.

Tourism

The Wuyi Mountains attract tourists from around the world, drawn by its natural beauty, cultural sites, and tea culture. Key attractions include the Nine Bend River, offering scenic rafting experiences, and the Heavenly Tour Peak (Tianyou Feng), providing panoramic views of the mountains. The area's accessibility has been improved with the development of the Wuyi Mountain Airport and high-speed rail connections.

Conservation

The Wuyi Mountains are part of the China Danxia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its unique Danxia landform. Efforts have been made to protect the area's natural and cultural heritage, with regulations in place to manage tourism and preserve the environment. Conservation projects focus on habitat restoration, pollution control, and the protection of endangered species.

See Also

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites in China
• Chinese tea culture
• Environmental conservation in China