Located approximately 450 km from the bustling Chongqing urban area, the Goddess Peak Scenic Area is renowned for its collection of twelve distinctive peaks that grace the Wu Gorge. Among these natural wonders, the Goddess Peak, also known as Shennu Peak, stands out as the most majestic. Its name derives from its striking resemblance to a graceful and virtuous maiden poised on the northern bank. As the tallest of the twelve peaks, Goddess Peak holds the distinction of being the first to bask in the morning sun and the last to bid farewell to the sunset, earning it the alternate title of Wangxia Peak, or Looking Sunglow Peak.
Throughout the ages, the Goddess Peak has been shrouded in captivating legends and folklore. One of the most beloved tales recounts the story of Yao Ji, a clever and beautiful fairy who dwelled in the celestial palace during prehistoric times. Feeling a sense of loneliness during the Mid-Autumn Festival, Yao Ji invited her eleven sisters to descend to the mortal realm. Their journey led them to the Wu Gorge, where they encountered Yu the Great, the legendary figure who tamed the raging floods of the region. Touched by Yu's noble spirit, Yao Ji decided to aid him by entrusting a sacred book containing water control secrets.
However, before Yao Ji could deliver the book to Yu the Great, heavenly soldiers intervened, capturing her and her sisters. In a daring act of defiance, they broke free from their celestial captors and returned to Earth to assist Yu the Great in overcoming the devastating floods. Through their combined efforts, the waters were finally tamed. As a result, Yao Ji and her sisters chose to remain in the Three Gorges area, transforming into the twelve graceful peaks that adorn the Wu Gorge, with Shennu Peak embodying the spirit of Yao Ji.
