Description:

A massive forest of bamboo that encircles a large mineral-rich lake with a lone gate at its center. It is the biggest bamboo forest known with a staggering population of pandas. In ancient times, it is believed that a volcano erupted in the area - eventually leading to the area’s fertile landscape. Rare animals thrive, many of the species that have adapted to living in such a forest and could quickly die outside of this ecosystem.
The only comfortable way into the forest is a visitor’s trail made by locals. While many did not want the destruction of any bamboo, it was agreed that adding a trail would give less incentive for adventurers to make their own paths and destroy the forest. The area is heavily guarded by locals and you may face serious charges if caught causing any harm to the plants or wildlife. The trail passes by a few interesting areas such as ruins, ponds, before leading straight to the center of the forest where the Jade Pool is housed. The Jade Pool is a large body of water with pristine, clear water. In it, the aquatic plant life thrives and gives it a jade hue, the source of the name. Koi fish are commonly seen swimming in the pool, giving the pool pops of vibrant oranges, reds, yellows, and whites from the fish. Additionally, duckweed floats on the top of the surface. There is an old bridge that leads to a tiny circle of land in the center. On this small land is a worn gate. The origins of both structures are unknown but are regarded as spiritual.

Landmarks:

• The Jade Pool - The round lake at the center of the bamboo forest. In the center of it is a small landmass that holds an ancient gate.
• Anigku's Gate - A masterfully crafted but worn torii gate lies at the center of a large and relatively shallow lake, surrounded on all sides by thick vegetation. While traditionally the gate would have signified the entrance to a temple, no one is quite sure where this gate once led, causing rumors to abound. It is fairly sun-bleached but was most likely once a vibrant red; the base of the gate where the water laps is the most worn and has long grown algae.
• Bridge of the Spirits - On the south side of the lake there is a mysterious bridge arching over the river that feeds into the lake. The path on the far side is only clear for a short distance before it disappears into the jungle indicating it was used at one point but has been abandoned for some years. Much like the gate, it is a sun-faded red color, but has retained its brightness much better. The far end has been somewhat taken over by vegetation.
• Visitor’s Trail - A dirt hiking trail lined by bamboo fencing through the forest that visits the area’s best landmarks, passing by a large crystal-clear lake, several ancient temples, and groves of rare-colored bamboo. Passing by a stalk of brightly colored purple bamboo is often a highlight for tourists and is considered a must-see, though black, gold, and white bamboo is also present throughout. Giant Pandas can sometimes be seen eating or sleeping near the trail.

Lore:

There is an old legend that says the pools were created by Anigku by accident as they flew overhead one day. As the dragon flew, a few of their jade-colored scales were loosened and fell from their sides to the ground below. Where the scales touched the valley, the pools grew and filled with the crystal clear waters that are today called the Jade Pools. It is said that the dragon was filled with such joy and peace at the sight of the pools that they made their home among them.

Passing through The Gate is said to set one on the path to spiritual enlightenment - or at the very least draw the attention of a spirit. Others believe that it is a gateway to the spirit world, prompting many to leave offerings and gifts here for a variety of spirits, even ones that reside in other regions of Tokotna. As a result, the lake is often dotted with tiny boats filled with treats, flowers, candles, and other goodies.

It is said that all of the bamboo in the forest was naturally green, and only changed hues when Sikrinerk passed by while chasing spirits. The purple bamboo in the forest is seen as sacred for this reason.

Original location inspiration by aitaica, sapphiresquire and the-nerd01
Location art by Keartricity