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22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
Dragon Palace ancient village

Longgong Village, located in Ninghai County, Zhejiang, CHINA is named after a legend in which a dragon is said to dwell in the village's western Shidou Pond. The pond is bottomless, with crystal-clear water that never dries up, surrounded by mountains where water flows mysteriously through a hidden cave, giving the area an aura of mystery. According to the legend, the dragon stirs in the pond, flying through the clouds and bringing rain to ensure a good harvest for the villagers. The village has a history dating back over a thousand years, founded during the Northern Song Dynasty's Xuanhe era, and is predominantly inhabited by the Chen family. Longgong Village is situated at the northern foot of Tian Tai’s Huating Mountain, surrounded by mountains and flowing streams, benefiting from a unique geographical position. The village preserves traditional architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties, including the "Three Chuan Tang" (three connected buildings), a courtyard-style "Five Generations Under One Roof," and the ancestral hall, which symbolizes prosperity and good fortune. The village reflects a deep connection between its people and nature, with mountains, waters, and architecture blending harmoniously. The village's atmosphere truly embodies the saying, "With immortals, it is famous; with dragons, it is blessed," making Longgong Village a culturally rich and myth-infused heritage site in Ninghai.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 10.2024
Date Uploaded: 12.2024
Photo Location: Ningbo City, China
Camera: Canon EOS R5
Copyright: © Zheng Ye