Cailing Crossing--the thirteenth scene in the 36 scenes of Qianlong

2019.4.18

Sunny, Thursday

On the north side of Huanbi Island in the Summer Resort, there is a circular grass pavilion, like a bamboo hat, which Qianlong inscribed as " Cailingdu" means Cailing's ferry. It is the thirteenth scene in the 36 scenes of Qianlong.

The lake here is very clear. In addition to lotus and lotus leaves, there are also many green water chestnuts growing on the lake. When summer comes, lotus flowers and water chestnut flowers bloom in the lake, and the fragrance is fragrant.

In those days, the emperor, concubines and maids often entered the lake to collect water chestnuts from here. They rowed boats across the lake, picking water chestnuts and playing among water chestnut flowers and lotus leaves.

Every Hungry Ghost Festival on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, the "Obon Festival" is held on Huanbi Island. This is a Buddhist ceremony held in memory of deceased relatives. On this day, colorful tents were set up on Huanbi Island, boats were arranged, incense and candles were burned, sutras were chanted, and Buddhas were worshiped. It was very lively. At night, amidst the chanting of sutras, the Dharma boat was launched into the water, and lanterns were lit on the bow, stern, and on the lake. The stars were dotted, adding another spectacle to Cailing Ferry.

Qianlong liked to appreciate the beautiful scenery here very much, and the accompanying princes often came here to study.

Cailingdu is still one of people’s favorite attractions. Many people like to come here to play flute, sing, recite poetry and paint. The beautiful scenery of the four seasons here - tender willows in spring, lotus flowers in summer, residual lotuses in autumn and winter, and white snow, attract countless photography enthusiasts to take photos.