There was an opening ceremony on Oct 23 celebrating Mianshan Mountain scenic area becoming the fourth National 5A-level Tourism Spot in Shanxi province along with Mount Wutai, Yungang Grottoes, and House of the Huangcheng Chancellor.

Work was under way for Mianshan Mountain, preparing it for the 5A-level tourism spot since 2011, by improving the facilities in the scenic area and the level of service for tourists by improving visitor satisfaction.

The 5A level is the highest grade for tourism scenic spots in China, and it serves as a Chinese benchmark for the world-class tourism standard, with the construction work consisting of quite strict procedures and careful evaluation systems.

Mianshan Mountain also has the name Jieshan Mountain, because Jie Zhitui, a famous hermit of the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476BC), had lived here. The range crosses three areas - Jiexiu, Lingshi and Qinyuan, south of the Fenhe River and 20 miles from the city of Jiexiu, south of Shanxi province. Its highest point is 2,566 meters above sea level, and the average height of the range is 1000 meters. Mianshan Mountain is on the north extension of Taiyue Mountain and is rich in nature, scenery, and history, and is a key scenic area for Shanxi province. It’s also the cradle for the Chinese Tomb Sweeping Day.

Eidted by Nigel Moffiet