The Three Heavenly Gates

On the ancient sacred path leading to the Golden Summit of Wudang Mountain, there are three Heavenly Gates, inscribed with the First Heavenly Gate, the Second Heavenly Gate and the Third Heavenly Gate. The three Heavenly Gates were all built by imperial decree on the site of the Yuan Dynasty in the tenth year of Yongle of the Ming Dynasty. They are of brick and stone structure, with a hip-and-gable roof style. The lower level is a stone-carved Sumeru pedestal, and the stone-carved water pan eaves are imitating the wooden structure. The three Heavenly Gates are grand and imposing, standing in sequence among thousands of stone steps with decorative railings. Ancient people praised them as: "Ten thousand steps of cloud ladders, hanging like a rainbow in the sky, seem to reach the heavens within reach." The ancient architects' setting up of three Heavenly gates on the ancient sacred road was quite ingenious and could be said to be a stroke of genius. The Heavenly Gate is a vital passage leading to the celestial palace and divine gates. Its grandeur and stability enhance the sacredness and solemnity of the celestial realm, gradually intensifying the reverence and reverence of the worshippers in their hearts. Meanwhile, although the sacred path to the Golden Summit has stone steps and guardrails, it is still steep and rugged, and the climb is arduous. During the arduous march, the worshippers suddenly noticed the towering Heavenly Gate standing before them, which would stir up passion from the bottom of their hearts and multiply their strength. This experience represents an elevation of aesthetic taste. According to historical records, in the past, whenever believers and pilgrims approached the Heavenly Gate, they would cheer and leap for joy, and the mountains would respond in response, never ceasing.