Western Hills--Dragon Gate

Dragon Gate is the steepest spot in the Western Hills and well worth climbing up the winding old stone stairs because the view is spectacular. In 1781, a pious Taoist monk named Wu Laiqing started to carve the steps leading to the top of the mountain where he could build a shrine. After his death, two gentlemen and the local villagers carried on this incredible labor of love. In 1853 after so many years of hard work, the stone steps leading to the natural cliff-top platform were completed. Just before the cliff platform, you pass through an archway on which is inscribed 'Longmen' (Dragon's Gate). Touching the center of the arch is considered good luck and many people have their pictures taken at this point. When standing at Dragon Gate and seeing the splendid views, you cannot but feel awe-inspired by the vision, dedication, and reverence for nature and the people who created this walkway. One's first view from here is one of those special moments in life when you feel as if you have almost reached the top of the world.