This attraction introduction is compiled from historical materials in the "Zhangjiajie Tour Guide Network" (33519.com · Scenic Spots section). Ticket prices, opening hours, transportation, and contact information mentioned in the text may be outdated. Please refer to the latest official announcements from the scenic area before traveling; some content consists of historical background/cultural introductions and is for reference only.
Gaoshiling, also known as Shizi Mountain, is located at the junction of Zhonggao, Qunli, and Gaojiang villages within Songjiang Township, about 1.5 kilometers from the township government. Gaoshiling runs north-south, with an elevation of 234.4 meters, and is the highest peak in the Songbai area. Over thousands of years, through weathering and water erosion, the rocks on the mountain have taken on strange and varied shapes. On both sides of the summit are cliffs more than 150 meters high. By the cliff edge is a stone cave, with an opening about 2 meters wide and about 2 meters high, whose depth is unfathomable. Legend says that inside the cave there is an underground river leading all the way to the Dragon Palace of the East Sea. When travelers walk in the cave or strike the cave walls, a thumping sound can be produced. Inside the cave are stone tables and stone stools, said to be where the Dragon King met with immortals to play chess.
Gaoshiling is like a majestic stone lion, surrounded by mountains on all sides. Looking out, the Xiang River drifts past the mountain like a winding jade belt, and the vast Shuikoushan area and the full panorama of Hengyang City can be taken in at a glance. The mountain is shaded by lush, verdant trees; even under the blazing sun, only dappled spots of light fall on the mountain paths.
On the southern side of the ridge there is a towering stone pillar, called Dingtian Stone, also known as Tongtian Stone. To the lower right of Tongtian Stone is an ancient tomb, said to be the burial place of Ouyang Xiu, a Shangshu of the Song Dynasty.
