《洞天福地嶽瀆名山記》

Preface to the Records of Grotto-Heavens, Blessed Lands, Sacred Peaks and Mountains in Modern Interpretation:

After the separation of heaven and earth, the pure and turbid Qi divided, forming rivers, lakes and seas, while condensing into towering sacred mountains. These divine peaks either correspond to celestial constellations or conceal Grotto-Heavens and Blessed Lands (sacred Daoist cultivation sites), all governed by supreme perfected immortals. Within these sacred realms:

There exist palaces inhabited by divine beings, hidden immortal abodes, and towers constructed of jade and gold. Some are formed through the condensation of heaven and earth's vital energy, others manifest through transformations of immortal mists. The Jade Pool (Queen Mother of the West's immortal pond) and emerald-green immortal springs flow in all directions, while pearl-like trees and jade-like forests flourish abundantly. These are the birthplaces of phoenixes and divine dragons, the dwelling grounds of celestial steeds and mythical beasts.

Some sacred mountains receive the passage of the sun god's chariot, while others align with specific stellar orbits. They contain the essence of wind, rain, clouds and thunder, serving as pivots for cosmic movement and the transformation of Yin-Yang. Some resemble resplendent islands in celestial seas, others pierce the clouds to touch the heavens. Some are encircled by the Weak Waters (legendary liquid that cannot float even a feather), others isolated by towering waves. Certain regions remain untouched by sunlight, inaccessible to mortal footsteps.

These sacred sites are all recorded in secret Daoist texts. The historian Sima Qian once mentioned five thousand famous mountains in the vast wilderness, among which the Five Sacred Peaks (Mount Tai, Mount Hua, etc.) serve as primary mountains with ten others as their supports. The Jade Scripture of Mount Gui records: within the cosmos exist thirty-six Grotto-Heavens, along with celestial palaces corresponding to the sun, moon and stars that govern human fortune, misfortune, life and death.

The dwelling places of supreme perfected beings and domains ruled by immortal kings further include overseas Five Peaks, Three Islands and Ten Continents, thirty-six Pure Hermitages (purified cultivation grounds), seventy-two Blessed Lands, twenty-four Administrative Centers (Daoist jurisdictions), and numerous guardian mountains. This compilation gathers these sacred sites for cultivators' reference. Due to the overwhelming complexity of recording every immortal palace, city, adept's name, grotto-mansion and official position, only brief accounts of each site's geographical location and number of major temples are included.

The main text enumerates the Daoist sacred mountain system:

• The supreme Xuandu Jade Capital Mountain resides within the Great Canopy Heaven (highest celestial realm), above the Jade Pure Realm (one of the Three Pure Realms)
• Yuanjing Mountain and Mount Emei (not the earthly counterpart) stand before the Jade Capital
• Mount Guangxia lies to the Jade Capital's right
• Mount Hongying and Mount Zikong flank its left
• Mount Wujian guards its rear

(This work was compiled by the renowned Tang dynasty Daoist priest Du Guangting in the eighth month of the Tianfu era at the Jade Bureau Temple in Chengdu)

This scripture describes the distribution of sacred mountains and blessed lands in Daoist mythology. According to the Daoist cosmological view, these divine mountains are located in different directions, each corresponding to specific deities and functions:

The highest tier of sacred mountains encircles the "Jade Capital" (Yujing, the supreme celestial realm of Daoism): Three Splendors Mountain stands before the Jade Capital, Golden Flower Mountain to its right, Cold Child Numinous Mountain to its left, Elegant Flower Mountain to another side, while Three Treasures Mountain and Flying Rosy Clouds Mountain are positioned at the rear. Floating Summit Void Mountain resides at the center of the Great Clarity Realm (Taiqing, one of the Three Pure Heavens). These mountains are all formed from primordial Qi (vital energy), adorned with celestial palaces where high-ranking immortals roam, corresponding to the Thirteen Palaces (important energy centers in Daoist cultivation) within the human body.

Next are the Five Sacred Peaks:

• Eastern Peak Vast Mulberry Mountain lies in the Eastern Sea, ruled by the Green Emperor (Celestial Sovereign of the East)
• Southern Peak Long Separation Mountain in the Southern Sea, abode of the Red Emperor
• Western Peak Beautiful Agriculture Mountain in the Western Sea, domain of the White Emperor
• Northern Peak Expansive Wilderness Mountain in the Northern Sea, governed by the Black Emperor
• Central Peak Kunlun Mountain stands at the heart of the Nine Seas, aligned with the North Star as the cosmic axis

Other renowned sacred mountains include:

• Square Pot Mountain: In the Northern Sea, 300,000 li from shore
• Fusang Mountain: In the Eastern Sea, where the sun rises
• Penglai Mountain: In the Eastern Sea, 1,000 li high
• Connected Stone Mountain: In southeastern waters
• Scorched Expanse Mountain: In the Eastern Sea where all rivers converge yet never overflow
• Square Measure Mountain: In the great sea, 497,000 zhang tall
• Bell Mountain: 90,000 li north of the Weak Waters in the Northern Sea
• Round Summit Mountain: In the great sea, reaching the sun and moon
• Daiyu Mountain: In the vast ocean
• Fengdu Mountain: Beneath the nine layers of the underworld, alternatively said to be in the northern Gui region—the administrative center for ghosts and spirits

Finally, the text describes ten major immortal isles:

• Mysterious Isle: In the Northern Sea, 7,000 li in circumference
• Yingzhou (also called Green Hill) and Mu Isle: In the Eastern Sea
• Ancestral Isle: In the Eastern Sea, producing herb of immortality
• Primordial Isle: In the great sea
• Long Isle: In the vast ocean
• Flowing Isle, Phoenix-Unicorn Isle (producing lute-string mending glue), and Gathering Cavern Isle (producing soul-returning incense): In the Western Sea
• Blazing Isle: In the Southern Sea
• Life-Bearing Isle: In the Western Sea

These sacred mountains and immortal isles constitute the idealized abodes of Daoist immortals, reflecting ancient aspirations for longevity and transcendence beyond the mundane world.

The Island of Vast Seas is situated in the great ocean, towering fifty thousand li high.

The aforementioned Ten Continents, Three Isles, and Five Sacred Mountains are all distributed across the vast seas surrounding Mount Kunlun. These places are sacred realms where immortals dwell and the Five Directional Celestial Emperors govern, inaccessible to ordinary mortals.

[China's Five Sacred Mountains]

1. Eastern Sacred Mountain - Mount Tai: Its mountain deity is the Celestial King of Equal Heaven, commanding ninety thousand immortal officials and jade maidens. The mountain range spans two thousand li, located in Fengfu County, Yanzhou. Mount Luofu and Mount Kuocang serve as its supporting peaks, with Mount Meng and Mount Dong assisting in governance.

2. Southern Sacred Mountain - Mount Heng: Its mountain deity is the Celestial King of Governing Heaven, commanding thirty thousand immortal officials and jade maidens. The mountain range spans two thousand li, with Mount Huo and Mount Qian as its subsidiary peaks, assisted by Mount Tiantai and Mount Juqu.

3. Central Sacred Mountain - Mount Song: Its mountain deity is the Celestial King of Central Heaven, commanding one hundred twenty thousand immortal officials and jade maidens, governing the central lands. The mountain range spans one thousand li, located in Gaocheng County, Luozhou. Mount Shaoshi and Mount Wudang of the Eastern Capital serve as its supporting peaks, assisted by Mount Taihe and Mount Luhun.

4. Western Sacred Mountain - Mount Hua: Its mountain deity is the Celestial King of Golden Heaven, commanding seventy thousand immortal officials and jade maidens. The mountain range spans two thousand li, located in Huayin County, Huazhou. Mount Difei and Mount Nüji serve as its supporting peaks, assisted by Mount Xicheng, Mount Qingcheng, Mount Emei, and others.

5. Northern Sacred Mountain - Mount Heng: Its mountain deity is the Celestial King of Peaceful Heaven, commanding fifty thousand immortal officials and jade maidens. The mountain range spans two thousand li, located in Zhenzhou. Mount Hefeng and Mount Baodu serve as its supporting peaks, assisted by Mount Xuanlong, Mount Kongtong, and others.

[Ten Great Grotto-Heavens]

1. Grotto of Royal Roof (Minor Heaven of Clear Emptiness): Extends ten thousand li in circumference, governed by Wang Bao, located in Wangwu County, Luozhou.

2. Grotto of Dropped Feathers (Great Heaven of Luminous Emptiness): Extends ten thousand li in circumference, governed by Sima Ji, located in Wuzhou.

3. Grotto of Western Citadel (Heaven of Supreme Mystery's Complete Truth): Extends three thousand li in circumference, governed by Wang Fangping, located in Shuzhou.

4. Grotto of Western Mystery (Heaven of Three Mysteries' Ultimate Truth): Extends two thousand li in breadth, governed by Lord Pei, located in Jinzhou.

5. Grotto of Azure Citadel (Heaven of Precious Immortals' Nine Chambers): Extends two thousand li in breadth, governed by Perfected Lord Ning, located in Qingcheng County, Shuzhou.

6. Grotto of Crimson Citadel (to be continued)

The Records of Grotto-Heavens, Blessed Lands, Sacred Peaks and Rivers documents the distribution of key Daoist sacred sites including grotto-heavens, the Five Sacred Mountains, and river deities:

First are the Ten Great Grotto-Heavens (celestial abodes where immortals dwell):

1. The Jade Clarity Level Heaven Grotto (in Tangxing County, Taizhou) spans 800 li, governed by Lord Wang, ranked seventh.

2. The Vermilion Brilliance Illuminated Truth Grotto (in Boluo County) spans 1,000 li, governed by Ge Hong (the renowned Eastern Jin dynasty Daoist), ranked eighth.

3. The Golden Altar Flourishing Yang Grotto (in Jurong County, Runzhou) spans 150 li, governed by Lord Mao, ranked ninth.

4. The Left Mystery Dark Chasm Grotto (in Wu County, Suzhou) spans 400 li, governed by the Elder Dragon Majesty, ranked tenth.

5. The Complete Virtue Hidden Truth Grotto (in Le'an County, Taizhou) spans 300 li, governed by Ping Zhongjie.

These grotto-heavens are collectively administered by high-ranking immortals of the Five Sacred Mountains, responsible for protecting the world and commanding all deities.

Next are the Five Sacred Mountains and their auxiliary peaks:

• Mount Qingcheng (in Shuzhou) governed by the Elder of Five Peaks, the True Lord Xi Yi
• Mount Tianzhu (in Shuzhou) governed by the True Lord of the Nine Heavens' Destiny Bureau
• Mount Lu (in Jiangzhou) governed by the True Lord of the Nine Heavens' Messengers

These auxiliary peaks assist the Five Sacred Mountains in guarding the five directions, serving as abodes for high-ranking immortals.

The Five Guardian Mountains and Four Seas/Five Watercourses:

• Eastern Guardian Mount Yi (Yizhou) governed by Prince Dong'an
• Southern Guardian Mount Kuaiji (Yuezhou) governed by Duke Yongxing
• Central Guardian Mount Huo (Jinzhou) governed by Duke Yingsheng
• Western Guardian Mount Wu (Longzhou) governed by Duke Chengde
• Northern Guardian Mount Yiwulu (Yingzhou) governed by Duke Guangning

Four Sea Dragon Kings:

• East Sea King of Vast Virtue (Laizhou)
• South Sea King of Vast Benefit (Guangzhou)
• West Sea King of Vast Moisture (Tongzhou)
• North Sea King of Vast Marsh (Luozhou)

Five Watercourse Deities:

• Yangtze River's Eastern King of Broad Origins (Yizhou), worshipped at Spring Equinox
• Huai River's Southern King of Long Origins (Tangzhou), worshipped at Summer Solstice
• Yellow River's Western King of Numinous Origins (Tongzhou), worshipped at Autumn Equinox
• Ji River's Northern King of Clear Origins (Luozhou), worshipped at Winter Solstice
• Han River's King of Han Origins (Liangzhou)

(These titles were all conferred in the 10th year of Tianbao era, Tang dynasty)

Finally mentioned are the Thirty-Six Pure Hermitages (Daoist cultivation sites):

• Mianzhu Hermitage (Qilin Mountain, Mianzhu County, Hanzhou)
• Zigai Hermitage (Dangyang County, Jingzhou)
• Lushui Hermitage

These records reflect the complete Daoist cosmological system of "Grotto-Heavens and Blessed Lands," showcasing the ancient sacralization of natural landscapes within their worldview.

This scripture primarily documents renowned Daoist cultivation sites and sacred grotto-heavens (dongtian). Here's a modern interpretation:

The text first enumerates the dwelling places of several Daoist immortals:

• Zhongli Quan's (Master Zhong) "Shou Xuan Hut" on Zhongnan Mountain
• The former residence of Yin Xi (Laozi's disciple) at Hongzhou's Western Mountain
• Wei Huacun's (Lady Wei) altar at Yuanzhou's Wuping Temple
• Yan Junping's (Han dynasty recluse) "Junping Hut" in Mianzhu County, Hanzhou
• Zhang Daoling's (Zhang Daoyu) "Yuanyang Hut" in Changshu County, Suzhou

These cultivation sites, mostly named "hut" (lu), are distributed across present-day Jiangxi, Hunan, Shaanxi, and Sichuan—all historically significant Daoist sacred locations.

The text then records several key grotto-heavens from the Daoist "Thirty-Six Grotto-Heavens":

1. Huolin Grotto-Heaven at Huotong Mountain (Changxi County, Fuzhou), spanning 3,000 li

2. Pengxuan Grotto-Heaven at Mount Tai (Qianfeng County, Yanzhou), spanning 1,000 li

3. Zhuling Grotto-Heaven at Mount Heng (Hengshan County, Hengzhou), spanning 700 li

4. Zongzhen Grotto-Heaven at Mount Hua, spanning 300 li

5. Sizhen Grotto-Heaven at Mount Song (Central Peak), spanning 3,000 li

6. Xuling Taomiao Grotto-Heaven at Mount Emei, spanning 300 li

These grotto-heavens were considered concentrations of spiritual energy (Qi) and ideal locations for achieving immortality. Each had defined boundaries and resident immortals, holding significant importance in Daoist cultivation systems.

Note that these locations reflect Tang-Song dynasty Daoist geographical concepts, with some place names differing from modern administrative divisions.

This scripture documents important Daoist Grotto-Heavens and Blessed Lands (sacred abodes of immortals and cultivation sites) along with their geographical locations:

1. The Dongxu Yongzhen Grotto-Heaven on Mount Emei (Emei County, Sichuan) spans three hundred li, located in Xunyang County, Jiangzhou. It serves as the dwelling of the Nine Celestial Messengers (high-ranking Daoist immortals).

2. The Danshan Chishui Grotto-Heaven on Mount Siming (Yuyao County, Zhejiang) covers one hundred eighty li, where legends say Liu Fan attained the Dao here.

3. The Jixuan Yangming Grotto-Heaven on Mount Kuaiji (Shaoxing, Zhejiang) extends three hundred li. Tradition holds that Emperor Yu of Xia sought celestial texts on flood control here.

4. The Dexuan Grotto-Heaven on Mount Taibai (Zhouzhi County, Shaanxi) encompasses five hundred li, a site where Lord Lao (the supreme Daoist deity) manifested his sacred presence.

5. The Tianbao Jixuan Grotto-Heaven on Western Mountain (Nanchang, Jiangxi) spans three hundred li, home to the immortal Hong Ya.

6. The Haosheng Shangyuan Grotto-Heaven on Mount Dawei (Liling, Hunan) covers three hundred li, said to contain the stone chamber where Celestial Master Zhang Daoling (founder of Daoism) practiced cultivation.

7. The Tianzhu Sixuan Grotto-Heaven on Mount Qianshan (Tongcheng, Anhui) stretches thirteen hundred li, residence of the Nine Heavens Destiny Officer (immortal governing fate).

8. The Shengzhen Huaxuan Grotto-Heaven on Mount Wuyi (Jianyang, Fujian) extends one hundred twenty li, associated with legends of bamboo groves and Lord Wuyi.

9. The Guixuan Sizhen Grotto-Heaven on Mount Guigu (Guixi, Jiangxi) spans seventy li.

10. The Rongcheng Taiyu Grotto-Heaven on Mount Huagai (Yongjia, Zhejiang) covers four thousand li.

11. The Taixiu Fale Grotto-Heaven on Mount Yusi (Xingan, Jiangxi) extends one hundred twenty li.

12. The Changyao Baoguang Grotto-Heaven on Mount Gaizhu (Huangyan, Zhejiang) spans eighty li, the cultivation site of Immortal Lord Ge (the renowned Daoist Ge Xuan).

13. The Taishang Baoxuan Grotto-Heaven on Mount Duqiao (Rong County, Guangxi) covers eighty li.

14. The Xiule Changzhen Grotto-Heaven on Mount Baishi (Rong County, Guangxi) extends seventy li.

15. The Yuque Baogui Grotto-Heaven on Mount Goulou (Guangxi) spans thirty li, featuring stone chambers and alchemical wells.

16. The Xiangzhen Taixu Grotto-Heaven on Mount Jiuyi (Dao County, Hunan) covers thirty li.

17. The Dongyang Yinguan Grotto-Heaven on Mount Dongyang (Changsha, Hunan) extends one hundred fifty li.

18. The Xuanzhen Taiyuan Grotto-Heaven on Mount Mufu (Hunan).

These Grotto-Heavens and Blessed Lands all serve as vital Daoist cultivation sites, each possessing unique immortal legends and historical significance.

This scripture records the legendary Grotto Heavens and Blessed Lands (sacred abodes of immortals and cultivation sites in Daoist tradition) along with their specific locations:

Grotto Heavens section:

1. Great You Mountain: Located in Tangjun County, Ezhou, this is where Wu Meng (a Daoist immortal) ascended to heaven. Known as the "Great You Hua Miao Grotto Heaven," it spans approximately 200 li.

2. Golden Court Mountain: Within Chenzhou territory, called the "Golden Court Chong Miao Grotto Heaven," covering 100 li.

3. Magu Mountain: Situated in Nancheng County, Fuzhou, where the female immortal Magu ascended. Named "Cinnabar Radiance Grotto Heaven," extending 150 li.

4. Immortal Capital Mountain: In Jinyun County, Chuzhou, where the Yellow Emperor ascended. Called "Prayer to Immortals Grotto Heaven," encompassing 300 li.

5. Qingtian Mountain: In Qingtian County, Chuzhou, known as "Great Crane Grotto Heaven" spanning 40 li, where Celestial Master Ye once resided.

6. Heavenly Pillar Mountain: In Yuhang County, Hangzhou, titled "Great Purification Mystical Canopy Grotto Heaven," covering 100 li.

7. Liangchang Mountain: Northeast of Maoshan, called "Assembly of Methods Grotto Heaven" spanning 30 li, residence of Middle Mao Lord (one of Maoshan sect founders).

8. Peach Blossom Spring Mountain: In Wuling County, Langzhou, named "White Horse Mystical Light Grotto Heaven," extending 70 li.

9. Golden Flower Mountain: In Jinhua County, Wuzhou, titled "Golden Flower Primordial Grotto Heaven" spanning 50 li, housing Huang Chuping's Red Pine Temple.

10. Purple Canopy Mountain: In Qujiang County, Shaozhou, called "Purple Mystical Covenant Grotto Heaven," covering 80 li.

Seventy-Two Blessed Lands section:

1. Earth Lung Mountain: At Maoshan, containing the Purple Sun Temple, former residence of Chief Minister Xu (Xu Xun, founder of the Pure Brightness school).

2. Stone Strike Source: In Huangyan County, Taizhou.

3. Eastern Immortal Source at Qiaoling: In Baixi, Wenzhou.

4. Southern Field: In Qingtian, Chuzhou.

5. Jade Glass Mountain: In the Wenzhou sea.

6. Green Islet Mountain: At the mouth of the Eastern Sea.

7. Mount Kongtong: In Xiazhou, visited by the Yellow Emperor.

8. Verdant Wood Hollow: In Jizhou.

These locations are all considered by Daoism to be convergence points of spiritual energy (Qi), suitable for practitioners to dwell in seclusion for cultivation or conduct religious activities. Each Grotto Heaven has specific jurisdictional boundaries and guardian immortals.

This scripture primarily documents the famous grotto-heavens (Dongtian), blessed lands (Fudi), and sacred mountains within Daoism, along with the cultivation sites of eminent perfected beings (gaozhen):

The Jade Beam Temple on Mount Yusi was the former residence of Xiao Ziyun (a Southern Dynasties Daoist priest). Mount Wudang in Junzhou contains seventy-one grotto-heavens. Mount Jun floats within Qingcao Lake of Yuezhou. The Guiyuan area of Baofu Mountain in Lianzhou served as the hermitage of Master Liao (a recluse). The Lingxu site on Mount Tiantai in Taizhou was where Celestial Master Sima (Sima Chengzhen) practiced cultivation. The Wozhou area of Shany County in Yuezhou and the Tianmu Ridge south of Mount Tiantai mark where Liu Chen and Ruan Zhao became lost while encountering immortals.

The Ruoye Stream lies south of Yuezhou, while the Qiaofeng Path and Mount Wu contain the Great Immortal Altar in Kuizhou. Mount Dongbai in Puyang County (Wuzhou) and Mount An in Jiaozhou were the retreats of Master Anqi (a Qin dynasty fangshi). Mount Maling in Chenzhou was where Su Dan (a Han dynasty transcendent) ascended to heaven. Mount Eyang in Changsha County witnessed True Lord Xu (Xu Xun) slaying flood dragons. The Peak of Zhurong in the Southern Marchmount (Nanyue) holds the Grotto Perfection Altar, while north of Changsha lies the Jade Clarity Altar and the Grotto Numinous Spring.

The Summit of Zhaoxian Temple on the Southern Marchmount (Hengzhou), along with Mount Tao in Angu County (Wenzhou), were where Master Zhenbai (Tao Hongjing) practiced alchemy (Waidan). Mount Lanke in Xin'an County (Quzhou) and Mount Longhu (ancestral seat of Celestial Master Zhang) in Guixi County (Xinzhou). The Le Stream in Jianyang County (Jianzhou) and Mount Lingying north of Raozhou were the cultivation grounds of Master Shi. The White Water Source in Longzhou and Mount Jinjing in Qianhua County (Qianzhou) witnessed the cultivation of Female Perfected Zhang.

Mount Gezao in Xingan County (Jizhou) marks the starting point of Celestial Master Zhang's teachings. Mount Shifeng in Fengcheng County (Hongzhou) and Mount Xiaoyao west of Lianxi were where True Lord Xu practiced cultivation. The eastern Baiyuan area of Xinwu County (Hongzhou) housed Master Zhong. Mount Bochi north of Chuzhou was where Master Wang cultivated the Dao. Mount Lun in Dantu County and Mao Gong's Altar (where Mao Chang lectured on scriptures) within Baoshan of Dongting Lake (Suzhou) collectively form seventy-two blessed lands.

This passage documents numerous sacred mountains and retreats where ancient Daoist practitioners secluded themselves for cultivation. Essentially serving as a "guide to immortal abodes," it catalogs various celestial peaks along with their associated accomplished masters:

Mount Jiuhua in Qingyang County, Chizhou was where Master Liu Gen practiced the Dao; Mount Tongbai in Tongbai County, Tangzhou (source of the Huai River) witnessed the ascension of Immortal Dou; while Mount Pingdu in Fengdu County, Zhongzhou was the site where Yin Changsheng achieved flight to immortality.

Other notable cultivation sites include: Zhangguan Mountain in Liyang County, Lizhou; Mount Baodu in Shangdang, Luzhou (where Zhuangzi secluded himself); Mount Qingcheng in Shuzhou (abode of Immortal Luo); and Tiger Stream in Anji County, Huzhou (where Immortal Fang practiced cultivation).

The text also mentions historical hermitages: Shang Valley in Shangtong County, Shangzhou housed the "Four Elders of Shang Mountain"; Mount Goushi in Gou County, Luozhou marked Prince Jin's ascension; White Crane Mountain in Linqiong County, Qiongzhou was Sima Xiangru's former residence; while Mount Shaoshi in Henan Prefecture forms part of the Central Sacred Peak, Songshan.

Zhejiang region's prominent cultivation sites feature: Dayan Cliff in Yongjia County, Wenzhou (where Tao Hongjing composed the Zhen'gao); Western White Mountain in Shan County, Yuezhou (ascension site of Zhao Guangxin); and the Three Sovereigns Well at Xianyan Mountain in Wenzhou. Most locations hosted Daoist temples, like the Taiyi Abbey at Zhongnan Mountain or Tianbao Abbey in Cixi County, Mingzhou.

This inventory reveals the distribution pattern of Daoism's "Grotto Heavens and Blessed Lands," chronicling cultivation footprints from Warring States' Zhuangzi through Han dynasty's Yin Changsheng to Wei-Jin period's Tao Hongjing, reflecting Daoism's enduring tradition of "cultivating the Dao in famous mountains."

This scripture records information about some of the famous "Twenty-Four Parishes" (early Celestial Master Daoism's twenty-four important sacred sites). Each parish corresponds to one of the Five Phases, a solar term, a lunar mansion, and specific dates:

1. Yangping Parish belongs to the Metal phase, corresponds to the Cold Dew solar term, and aligns with the Jiao lunar mansion. Located forty li within Jiulong County of Pengzhou, it borders Xindu County by four li. Here, the immortals Zhai Xianye and Zhang Heng achieved daytime ascension.

2. Lutang Parish belongs to the Wood phase, corresponds to the Frost Descent solar term, and aligns with the Kang lunar mansion. Situated twenty li northwest of Mianzhu in Hanzhou, it's where Lord Lao (the deified Laozi) and Celestial Master Zhang made covenants with ten thousand spirits, and where the Heavenly Sovereign Immortal (a Daoist deity) resides.

3. Heming Parish belongs to the Metal phase, corresponds to the Beginning of Winter solar term, and aligns with the Di, Fang, and Xin lunar mansions. Located thirty li northwest of Dayi County in Qiongzhou, this is where Lord Lao bestowed Fulu (talismanic registers) upon Celestial Master Zhang. Xu Xiaodao, He Danyang, and Ma Chengzi all achieved ascension here.

4. Lihang Parish belongs to the Earth phase, corresponds to the Minor Snow solar term, and aligns with the Wei lunar mansion. Situated seventy li northwest of Jiulong County in Pengzhou, here Lord Lao transmitted Daoist methods to the Perfected Fan Li, enabling his daytime ascension.

5. Geguai Parish belongs to the Fire phase, corresponds to the Major Snow solar term, and aligns with the Ji lunar mansion. Located sixty li northwest of Jiulong County in Pengzhou, this was the dwelling of the Shangqing Perfected (high-ranking immortals). Yang Xianxian, Pu Gaoyuan, and Ge Yonggui achieved ascension here. Originally called Shangqing Parish.

6. Gengchu Parish belongs to the Water phase, corresponds to the Winter Solstice solar term, and aligns with the Dou lunar mansion. Situated thirty li east of Mianzhu County in Hanzhou, it corresponds to the celestial Gengchu Mansion. Zhang Lizi achieved daytime ascension here.

7. Qinzhong Parish belongs to the Water phase, corresponds to the Minor Cold solar term, and aligns with the Niu lunar mansion. Located twenty li north of Deyang County in Hanzhou, here the Heavenly Sovereign Immortal bestowed the Golden Book of Celestial Patterns (a Daoist secret text) upon Han Zhong, enabling his ascension.

8. Zhenduo Parish belongs to the Metal phase, corresponds to the Major Cold solar term, and aligns with the Nü lunar mansion. Situated twenty-five li northwest of Jintang County in Hanzhou, this was where Lord Lao and Celestial Master Zhang convened to transmit the Dao. Wang Fangping and Li Zhenduo achieved ascension here. Also known as Shangzhen Parish.

9. Changli Parish belongs to the Earth phase, corresponds to the Beginning of Spring solar term, and aligns with the Xu lunar mansion. Located twenty li east of Jintang County in Hanzhou, Li Babo twice practiced alchemy here before finally achieving immortal ascension.

These records reflect early Daoism's cosmology that integrated geographical locations with astronomical calendars and Five Phases theory. Each parish served as sacred space connecting heaven and earth, where numerous famous Daoists attained enlightenment and immortality.

This scripture records several important Grotto-Heavens and Blissful Realms (sacred sites of Daoist cultivation) along with their associated legends:

1. The Yongquan Grotto (aligned with the Wood phase, corresponding to the Awakening of Insects solar term, and associated with the Encampment and Wall lunar mansions) is located seventy li northwest of Deyang County in Hanzhou. Legend states that Lord Lao (Laojun) transmitted the Mysterious Truth Register (Daoist Fulu) to Ma Mingsheng here, who later achieved ascension to immortality at this site.

2. The Choujing Grotto (Water phase, Spring Equinox, corresponding to the Legs lunar mansion) lies ten li south of Xinjin County in Shuzhou. Tradition holds that the Yellow Emperor refined elixirs in these mountains, where remnants of a celestial pond, stone steles, and alchemical furnaces can still be found.

3. The Beiping Grotto (Metal phase, Clear and Bright solar term, corresponding to the Bond lunar mansion), also called Wealth Mountain, stands twenty-five li northwest of Pengshan County in Meizhou. Numerous perfected beings visited this site, including Prince Qiao (heir of King Ling of Zhou) who attained ascension here.

4. The Benzhu Grotto (Wood phase, Grain Rain solar term, corresponding to the Stomach lunar mansion) is situated twenty-five li northwest of Xinjin County. The Yellow Emperor traveled through this area, and Guo Shengzi achieved immortality here. The mountain derives its name "Bamboo Altar" from the sweeping bamboo groves atop its summit.

5. The Mengqin Grotto (Fire phase, Beginning of Summer solar term, corresponding to the Hairy Head lunar mansion) lies fifteen li from Taideng County in Xizhou. Historical figures including Yi Yin, Zhao Gui, Zhao Sheng, and Prince Zhao all attained ascension at this site.

6. The Pinggai Grotto (Earth phase, Grain Full solar term, corresponding to the Net lunar mansion) is located thirty li north of Xinjin County. Legends speak of three-zhang-tall "Royal Persons" appearing in these mountains as omens of universal peace. The immortal Cui Xiaotong achieved ascension here.

7. The Yuntai Grotto (Fire phase, Grain in Ear solar term, corresponding to the Turtle Beak and Triaster lunar mansions) stands thirty-five li southeast of Cangxi County in Langzhou. Records state that Celestial Master Zhang Daoling achieved ascension here on the ninth day of the ninth month during the second year of the Yongshou era.

8. The Jinkou Grotto (Wood phase, Summer Solstice solar term, corresponding to the Well lunar mansion) lies five li west of Xingyuan Prefecture. Chen Anshi and the woman of the Bao clan both attained immortality at this site.

These records integrate geographical locations, seasonal cycles, Five Phase correspondences, and astrological configurations with immortal lore, exemplifying the Daoist concept of cosmic resonance between heaven and humanity in the Grotto-Heavens tradition. Each sacred site corresponds to specific temporal cycles and celestial phenomena while being intimately connected with the cultivation achievements of renowned perfected beings.

This scripture records several sacred Daoist sites (grotto-heavens and blessed lands), their geographical locations, corresponding solar terms and constellations, along with associated accounts of attaining the Dao and ascending to immortality:

Houcheng Sanctuary (aligned with the Earth phase) corresponds to the Minor Heat solar term, with its celestial counterpart in the Ghost constellation (Xinyou and Guiyou days). Located 65 li northwest of Shifang County in Hanzhou, this is where the Celestial Master (Zhang Daoling) taught Xia Ziran the "Guarding the One" (Shouyi) cultivation method, after which Xia achieved daylight ascension here.

Gongmu Sanctuary (aligned with the Metal phase) corresponds to the Major Heat solar term, with its celestial counterpart in the Willow constellation (Jiashen, Renshen, and Gengshen days). Situated 50 li northwest of Zhufang County in Hanzhou, this is where the Celestial Master transmitted the Qiongwen Zizi Daoist scripture to Su Ziyu, who later ascended to heaven in broad daylight at this site.

Pinggang Sanctuary (aligned with the Water phase) corresponds to the Beginning of Autumn solar term, with its celestial counterpart in the Star constellation (Wuxu and Dinghai days). Located 4 li southwest of Xinjin County in Shuzhou, it's also known as Lingquan Sanctuary. Immortals Li A and Zhai Jun both ascended from this location.

Zhubu Sanctuary (aligned with the Metal phase) corresponds to the End of Heat solar term, with its celestial counterpart in the Extended Net constellation (Yiwei, Jiwei, and Guiwei days). Situated 30 li northeast of Pujiang County in Qiongzhou, it's alternatively called Qiuchang Sanctuary. Here, the registrar Wang Xing and female immortal Yang Zhengjian achieved ascension.

Yuju Sanctuary (aligned with the Water phase) corresponds to the White Dew solar term, with its celestial counterpart in the Wings constellation (Dingwei and Xinwei days). Located 1 li south of Chengdu Prefecture, it's also called Yunü Sanctuary. In the first year of Yongshou reign (155 CE), the Supreme Elder Lord (Taishang Laojun) and Celestial Master Zhang Daoling descended here, causing a jade altar (Yuju) to emerge from the ground—hence its name.

Beimang Sanctuary (aligned with the Earth phase) corresponds to the Autumn Equinox solar term, with its celestial counterpart in the Chariot constellation (Wuzi and Jiawu days). Situated north of the Eastern Capital (Luoyang), this site witnessed the ascensions of immortals including Wuchengzi, Bo He, Prince Jin, Lü Gong, and Lü Wenqi. In the second year of Longshuo reign (662 CE), the Supreme Elder Lord manifested his sacred presence here.