Yunzhou Wenbi Pagoda in Yunxian County, Lincang

Introduction

The Yunzhou Wenbi Pagoda (云州文笔塔) is located on the summit of Huoshishan Mountain (火石山) about 1 kilometer north of Yunxian County (云县), Lincang (临沧), Yunnan Province (云南省). Constructed in the 48th year of the Qianlong reign (乾隆壬寅年) during the Qing Dynasty (清朝), this historical structure stands as a testament to the region's cultural heritage.

General Information

• Chinese Name: 文笔塔
• Location: Yunxian County (云县), Yunnan Province (云南省)
• Opening Hours: 24 hours (全天)
• Admission Fee: Free (0元)
• Construction Year: Qianlong Year of the Renyin (乾隆壬寅年)
• Height of the Pagoda: 20 meters (20米)

Scenic Overview

The Yunzhou Wenbi Pagoda stands approximately 20 meters tall and is structured in nine tiers. It features a solid brick construction with a traditional eave design. The pagoda was struck by lightning during the Guangxu period (光绪年间), causing damage to one corner of the top tier.

Above the second tier, each of the four sides has a shallow recess that once housed a Buddhist statue (未设佛像). The base of the pagoda is made of red sandstone (红砂岩条石), and the top is adorned with a copper gourd-shaped vase (铜质葫芦形宝瓶). Each of the four corners below the vase is suspended with a copper bell (铜铃).

The west wall of the first tier features a piece of marble (大理石) with inscriptions that describe the construction and significance of the pagoda. The inscription reads:

"Newly built Wenbi, between the old and new towns. As the summit of the new town, it corresponds to the star of the Southern Dipper, signifying longevity, wealth, and honor for its inhabitants; as the summit of the old town, it corresponds to the heavenly market, signifying childhood success and mastery of fortune. By guarding the meeting place of the two rivers, it becomes a pillar of strength for officials, citizens, and travelers alike, allowing for peace and prosperity. Its auspiciousness is inevitable."

Notable individuals mentioned in the inscription include:

• Xiong Kongrong (熊孔荣): Former Governor of Yunzhou (云州知州)
• Li Fayuan (李发源): Current Acting Governor
• Luo Jijing (罗次李九茎): Confucian scholar
• Peng Shangli (彭尚礼): Clerk
• Yang Hengwei (杨恒蔚): Recommended scholar
• Li Weizeng (李维增): National student
• Chen Xueshi, Li Tailai, Yang Bin: Supervisors of the construction
• Li Erdun (李尔敦) and Yang Tingwang (杨廷望): Stone workers
• Contributions were made by local gentry and merchants as a collective effort.

Historical Development

In 1983, the Wenbi Pagoda was designated as a county-level cultural relic protection unit by the Yunxian County People's Government. It was reaffirmed as a county-level cultural relic protection unit in 1992. The pagoda is considered one of the more valuable ancient structures in Yunxian County and is a rare historical and cultural heritage site for the region.

How to Get There

To reach the Yunzhou Wenbi Pagoda, consider the following options:

• By Bus: Local buses frequently travel from the center of Yunxian County to Huoshishan Mountain.
• By Taxi: Taxis are available for direct transport to the mountain.
• On Foot: If you enjoy hiking, you can walk from Yunxian County to the pagoda, enjoying the natural scenery along the way.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is during spring and autumn for pleasant weather and clear views.
• Safety: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking and be cautious on steep paths.
• Photography: The pagoda and its surroundings provide excellent photo opportunities, so bring a camera.
• Cultural Respect: Be respectful of local customs, especially if you encounter any religious practices at the site.
• Local Snacks: Try local specialties in Yunxian County after your visit; the area is known for its unique cuisine.
• Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the pagoda.