NANJINGNOW

We’ve made it! You’ll know you’ve arrived at Purple Cloud Lake after the steep descent from the mountain when you see the red structure sitting behind these blokes…

Take the steps down, under the pavillion and you see the lake in its majestic glory. You can choose to go around from the left (clockwise) or right (anticlockwise). We went from the right this time round.

We found a spot to rest our tired feet. A group of about ten people were hanging out there, going in for the occasional dip. Yes, people swim, and even dive here! Other know better than that, and bring a hammock to keep them rocking on…

As one local recounted, the lake is very cold, especially below the surface. There’s a sign telling people about the hazards of swimming in a purple cloud…

They say that many of the people who swim to the center of the lake get cramps because you may not feel so cold near the surface, but your legs are deeper in. When you get a cramp in the middle of the lake, it’s actually dangerous, because your leg muscles are impaired from helping you get back to shore. That said, people are still fine swimming at the edges…

If you’d taken the left path, there will be area of green grass for you to place your picnic mat on. Several great spots to sit and stone and waste the day away. From the other side of the lake, you get a gorgeous view of the mountain…

So, for those who’ve come down from over the mountain, it really is a great feeling isn’t it? From this side of the lake where you can see the mountain, try to find the path leading to 明孝东 [ming2xiao4dong1] to continue the journey…And if you walk down this path, you’ll soon see a red wall on your right side.

This is the wall containing the Ming Emperor’s Tomb, or rather, this is his tomb. Start making your way right until you reach the outer wall of the tomb…