It turns out, this “mountain” is not as small as many might think.
When people think of mountains, they often envision grandeur, as mountains give us an impression of size and stability. Tall, towering peaks often evoke the human desire to conquer them, such as Mount Everest. Each year, hundreds of people flock to the world’s highest peak, Everest, leading to long queues just to reach the “roof of the world.”
However, there are also mountains that do not fit the common perception. They are neither tall nor majestic as we might imagine. The smallest mountain in China, located in Shouguang City, Shandong Province, is one such mountain.
Mount Jing in China. (Photo: Sohu).
According to Sohu, this mountain is named Mount Jing, measuring 1.24 meters in length from east to west, with its widest point at 0.7 meters and its highest point at 0.6 meters. Its lowest point is only 0.1 meters, making it look like a very ordinary rock.
This has led many to express surprise upon seeing it. Nevertheless, Mount Jing has been officially recognized as a real mountain by the Shouguang County records for over 100 years. This has sparked curiosity among many, raising questions about the unique nature of this mountain and why it is recognized as a mountain rather than just a large stone.
What is visible is just the peak of Mount Jing; its body remains deep underground. (Illustrative photo).
According to local residents, this mountain has existed for a very long time, with an estimated age of over a hundred years. Additionally, the actual size of Mount Jing differs from what people commonly perceive. The visible part is merely the peak of Mount Jing, while its body is still buried deep underground.
Historical records indicate that many have dug around this mountain to prove it is just a stone. However, this exploration led to the discovery that Mount Jing is indeed a mountain. Reports suggest that the base of the mountain is actually buried 48 meters underground, although this information has yet to be specifically verified.
This mountain has become a symbol attracting tourists. (Illustrative photo).
Regarding the reason for this mountain being deep underground, geologists have surveyed and explained that due to various natural factors and tectonic movements, much of the mountain is buried beneath dense topsoil, with only the uppermost part exposed.
Despite its unremarkable features, Mount Jing has become a symbol attracting tourists as it is the only mountain within Shandong Province, China. Local authorities have paid significant attention to it, considering it a vital conservation target in Shouguang City. This mountain has become a key conservation site, with several preservation measures implemented, prohibiting residents from excavating, constructing around it, or blasting the mountain for stone. Consequently, even though this mountain is quite “small,” no one dares to climb it.
