The renamed scenic spot

A scenic region in Hunan has announced the change of its name to "Iron Hammer" in what many people take as a nod to the spirit of Chinese women's volleyball. The spot used to be named "Standing Upright Between Heaven and Earth."

Located in a forest park, the scenic area features an irregular rock leaning by a cliff. On the afternoon of Aug. 22, the company that maintains the site released a notice announcing its renaming. As the scenic spot is shaped similarly to a hammer, the company decided to give it a name that also references the Chinese women's volleyball coach, Lang Ping. "Iron Hammer" is Lang's sobriquet. The notice also explained that the spot's previous name was drawn from folklore, since the rock is believed to be Nüwa's stepping stone, according to Chinese mythology.

Some netizens pointed out that renaming the scenic spot seemed unnecessary, speculating that site operators were simply trying to capitalize on the recent volleyball victory to improve the site's popularity.

Lang Ping, head coach and previous player of Chinese women's volleyball team

Peng Weiwei, an executive officer for the scenic region, explained that the operating company values the cultural meaning behind the new name, but is not trying to take advantage of the hype.

"Our intention is to put forward positive energy, and the online buzz is an unexpected bonus," Peng remarked.

Peng also said the operating company took over this scenic region in April. "Standing Upright Between Heaven and Earth" was not the official name of the spot, but rather an informal title. Some workers thought the shape of the rock resembled an iron hammer; after the Chinese team's victory, a worker proposed renaming it.

"The spiritual meaning can help to motivate us," Peng added.

The plaque for the site will be updated soon. Peng said the company wouldn't change its mind about the renaming just because some people were questioning their motives.

"We won't change the name unless netizens can provide a better one," Peng said.