A sacred land of kind people and uplifting sights

My hometown Xinzhou, in Shanxi province, is located in the Loess Plateau through which flows the Yellow River. The highland not only nurtures people known for being kind and diligent, but is also famous for its unique natural beauty and unparalleled cultural heritage.

One of its top attractions is Wutai Mountain, a popular summer resort and a Buddhist holy mountain, home to many of the country's most famous temples. The mountain draws huge crowds in the summer, the peak season for visitors.

Though I'm not a devout Buddhist, I love the atmosphere in the mountain. When I hear the sounds of drums and bells from the monasteries and watch the monks in prayer, I feel a great peace in this sacred place.