In Chinese mythology, Peng Lai is the home of the Eight Immortals from Taoism. It is said to be a very beautiful island which is unreachable by mere mortals. Such is the beauty and splendor of this ethereal place that the trees grow from coral and bear fruit of precious gems, and the ground is decorated with jewels and gold. The palaces of the Immortals are grand beyond measure, being constructed from gold, platinum and silver. Illness and disease are unknown here, and with a mere thought majestic and delicious food is conjured for joyous consumption.

There are eight peaks on this majestic mountain, and each one of the Immortals resides on each particular peak. The immortals congregate at the mountain to make merriment and enjoy themselves. The fruits that grow on the fabled trees here are said to be able to cure any disease, prolong life and even raise a person back from the dead. The weather is always tranquil, calm and sunny, with no extremities. Only the most beautiful fairies reside here, dancing gracefully and making enchanting music.

Peng Lai has been much sought after throughout history. The Shan Hai Jing, an ancient Chinese text that details the whereabouts of many mythology places, places Peng Lai on the far eastern end of the Bohai Sea. The stories of its vast riches and fruits that give eternal youth have prompted high ranking personages to seek its whereabouts. In particular, the Emperor Qin Shi Huang Di launched many expeditions to find the ever elusive island to seek the elixir of youth. None of the expeditions ever found the island, but according to legend, one of his servants discovered Japan instead. Therefore, Yichu of the Later Zhou dynasty instead places Peng Lai as Mount Fuji, and the island on which it resides as Japan.

The description of Peng Lai bears a few similarities with the Buddhist concept of Pure Land. The avenues of gold and platinum, trees that bear pearls and jewels, and pagodas of lapis lazuli are only the surface similarities. Like the Pure Land, it is a place of great joy that experiences no suffering. The people that reside here experience eternal youth and can carry on their personal pursuits without hindrance. Their hearts are already pure and there is no evil committed on the mountain.

Peng Lai is a place of many mysteries and wonders. What is mentioned here only briefly touches what is truly experienced by the Immortals there. Perhaps it is right here on Earth, but due to our limited senses we cannot see, touch, smell, hear nor feel it. Perhaps it never existed, but is an ideal state of utopia for which we can strive for. Either way, it is an intriguing and inspiring place.