Fun amid folklore in C China's Hunan

Jiyuan, Henan province has a link to folklore that is familiar to practically every household across the country. [Photo by Yang Feiyue/China Daily]

Jiyuan, located in the northwest of Central China's Henan province, which got its name for being the origin of the ancient Jishui River, is a charming place with mountainous landscapes and a huge hydraulic project.

Majestic mountains, links with ancient Chinese civilization and a huge hydraulic project give Jiyuan a special charm. The city, which is located in the northwest of central China's Henan province is also relatively less frequented by travelers.

Yet, Jiyuan has a link to folklore that is familiar to practically every household across the country.

"The city got its name for being the origin of the ancient Jishui River," Chang Shiyu, a local guide tells us.

The river used to be on a par with the Yangtze, Yellow and Huaihe rivers, although it has mostly been overshadowed by the Yellow River.

In addition to its name, the city is steeped in the spirit of Yugong, whose story has been told to every Chinese for generations.

Yugong was determined to move the towering mountains standing in his way, stone by stone, and believed that the job would be done if his progeny continued to do the job. His diligence and perseverance ended up moving the gods, who later granted his wish.

Wangwu is one of the two mountains.

Ancient lore has it that the Yellow Emperor, who is regarded as the common ancestor of all Chinese, worshipped the god here after he united ancient China.

The mountain covers an area of 270 square kilometers, with the peak at 1,715 meters.