Dengfeng is rich in history and splendid in culture. The geological wonders of Mount Song, the Central Peak of the Five Sacred Mountains, span five different geological periods, creating a spectacular landscape with over 1,500 scenic spots and historic sites that vividly depict the ancient history of China.

The richness of history is a rare treasure, and Dengfeng’s historical legacy, spanning over three millennia, is an even rarer gem. The Historic Monuments in "The Centre of Heaven and Earth" at the foot of Mount Song have been enriched by the passage of time, endowing them with a unique charm.

Dengfeng carries forward a diverse culture, creating the vibrant story of today.

With a history of 3.6 billion years, Mount Song is rightfully known as the “ancestor of all mountains”. Amidst the land of Mount Song, the Xia Dynasty’s capital witnessed tumultuous times. In the flourishing age of Emperor Wu during the Han Dynasty, this region earned the distinguished title of “Chonggao”. Empress Wu Zetian of the Tang Dynasty “ascended (Deng)” Mount Song and “bestowed (Feng)” the title of Central Peak, giving rise to the name Dengfeng. It has been more than 1,300 years since.

In the 11th century BC, Duke Zhou established the capital Luoyi at the ancient Yangcheng (now Gaocheng in Dengfeng), where he “measured the sun’s shadow and determined the center of the land.” The concept of “The Centre of Heaven and Earth” thus became a traditional cosmological perspective that influenced the Chinese people for over 3,000 years.

Star Observation Platform

The “Three Eastern Han Archways” record history for centuries through stone carvings, while the Songyang Academy bears witness to centuries of scholarly debates.

The History of Dengfeng Is Long

The virtuous stories of Yao and Shun’s abdication are celebrated here. The descendants of Emperors Yan and Huang established the Xia and Shang civilizations in this place. The wisdom of Yu the Great in managing floods, his ability to adapt and guide, the enterprising spirit of putting the public interest above personal matters, and the tragic transformation of Emperor Qi’s mother into a massive stone are all remembered in this place.

Inside the Songyang Academy’s library stands the General Cypress Tree, a title personally granted by Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty. Beside a clear pond, lotus flowers and playful fish create a tranquil and ancient ambiance. Walking within, one can’t help but feel a deep reverence for the heroic spirit of the ancient sages and virtuous predecessors. Cheng Hao and Cheng Yi, who stood in the snow to wait upon Master Cheng respectfully, have become exemplars of the ancient Chinese tradition of respecting and honoring teachers.

The historical battles and narratives from the literary realm have bestowed upon this city a profound cultural legacy that endures to the present day.

The Stories of Dengfeng Are Countless

Dengfeng, a wonderful place with mountains and water, is where time, along with the steps of travelers, gradually slows down. Each mountain, each body of water, and every scene here requires careful appreciation.

The Mount Song range stretches endlessly and is vast and majestic. The main peak, standing at an elevation of 1,492 meters, along with its towering peaks, paints a variety of awe-inspiring landscapes, creating a truly magnificent spectacle.

Mount Song transforms with different colors throughout the four seasons—the tender green of sprouting buds in spring, the vibrant sunshine and white clouds of summer, the frosty days adorned with red leaves in autumn, and the silver-clad winter. Each season unveils a captivating scene.

Endless Charm of Dengfeng

Dengfeng, steeped in ancient charm, boasts a profound cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes dating back several millennia. For countless centuries, this city has left behind innumerable historical relics and stories.