The Guest-Greeting Pine, a 1,000-year-old pine tree in China's Yellow Mountain, is a symbol of hospitality and friendship, growing out of solid granite rock at the peak of the mountain. Hu Xiaosong, the tree's 19th-generation 'bodyguard', is tasked with protecting it from severe weather, climate change, and overzealous tourists. Hu has been in this role for 16 years, conducting patrols every two hours to inspect and safeguard the tree. His dedication is evident as he takes on the challenge of monitoring the tree from monkeys, squirrels, and tourists, ensuring its well-being.
The tree's iconic status has attracted a growing number of visitors to Huangshan, surpassing 5 million last year. However, Hu notes an improvement in tourist behavior over the years, and technology has played a crucial role in keeping them at bay. An intrusion prevention alarm system, installed in 2020, alerts Hu when tourists get too close to the pine, allowing him to respond promptly. This high-tech approach has been effective in maintaining the tree's serenity.
Despite these efforts, the Guest-Greeting Pine faces a significant threat from changing weather patterns, particularly freezing rain, which can damage the branches if not handled properly. Eastern China has experienced more extensive areas of severe freezing rain in 2024 and 2025 compared to historical averages, attributed to climate change. Hu's dedication to inspecting the tree every 30 to 40 minutes during severe weather and staying up all night during strong winds or flooding showcases his commitment to preserving this natural wonder.
The article highlights the broader concern of climate change in China and beyond. Mayors from 10 countries, including Italy, Germany, and Thailand, gathered in Huangshan to discuss building more resilient cities. The Guest-Greeting Pine's story resonates with other cities facing similar challenges, such as Pokhara, Nepal, which is located within a fragile mountain ecosystem. The dialogue among mayors emphasizes the need for innovative solutions to manage overtourism and the impact of climate change.
China's commitment to green cities is evident, but experts caution that the country still has a long way to go as the world's biggest emitter of greenhouse gases. The IQAir World Air Quality Report reveals that microscopic air pollutant levels, known as PM2.5, are still significantly above World Health Organization guidelines. However, China is actively reaching out to state and local officials worldwide, promoting climate cooperation and green initiatives.
The article concludes by highlighting the personal connection Hu has with the Guest-Greeting Pine, comparing it to an elder member of his family. His dedication and commitment to protecting the tree from various threats showcase the importance of individual efforts in preserving natural wonders, even in the face of global challenges.
