aeeble

Carp Mountain, as its name suggests, derives its name from a carp-shaped silhouette; in earlier days, because springs once gushed from its summit, it was also called Boiling-Water Mountain. The first recorded mud eruption occurred during the Qing dynasty more than a century ago, and since then the activity has been intermittent. From 1988 onward, eruptions have occurred almost annually, with vents shifting from the peak down to the adjacent plain. Geologically, layers of natural gas, oil, water, and mud lie beneath the surface; when subterranean pressure builds sufficiently, it forces its way up through crustal fractures. Carp Mountain happens to sit on an unstable fault zone, creating the spectacle of erupting mud. Because the expelled mud is rich in natural gas, workers often ignite it to hasten combustion; roaring flames then accompany the surging slurry, and columns of fire can shoot several meters into the air, producing an awesome scene. In recent years the eruptions have clustered near Huangyuan Temple. According to local belief, the shrine was built at divine command; in its main hall hangs a photograph taken during an eruption entitled “The Golden Dragon Revealed,” showing how legend now colors this natural wonder. Remarkably, the active vent lies only a short distance from the temple, and although past flows have surrounded the building, the structure itself has emerged unscathed. The mud volcano remains unpredictable, but even if you miss an eruption, the resulting craters and cooled mudfields make a visit worthwhile.