Plum Blossom Hall

Plum Blossom Hall in Xiangshan is located near the parking lot at the top of Xiangshan Scenic Area. It consists of two rows of single-story buildings connected by a long corridor, featuring dark tile roofs and gray walls, exuding a simple and dignified charm. The great Song Dynasty literary master Su Dongpo once stopped and stayed here. In the center of the front hall, slightly towards the back, there is a folding screen with a plaque above it inscribed with "Fragrance Gives Birth to a Cluster of Jade." On the dark red pillars on both sides, a couplet is carved: "Spring follows the fragrant grass, blooming for a thousand years; people are as pure as plum blossoms." In front of the screen is a portrait of Xu Xiake, with an inscription on the base explaining Xu Xiake's connection to Xiangshan. The folding screen in the rear hall features a large relief depicting the main scenic spots of Xiangshan. Under the eaves behind Plum Blossom Hall, there is also a plaque featuring calligraphy by Emperor Qianlong, recording his words: "The river and sky are of one color." On both sides, there is another couplet: "The old poet does not know the style of plum blossoms, but looks instead at the green leaves and branches." Behind the building is a pond with clear rippling water, said to be the pool where Su Dongpo washed his inkstone and brushes after writing poetry and painting, known as the "Inkstone Washing Pool."