Overview

Qihe Tower (企鹤楼) is located within Shiping No.1 Middle School (石屏一中) in Yilong Town (异龙镇), Shiping County (石屏县), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). The site covers an area of approximately 29,805 square meters and is a historic building complex from the Republic of China era.

Architectural Features

The Qihe Tower complex consists of several structures, including the Zhun Ti Pavilion (准提阁), Three Buddhas Hall (三佛殿), a stone arch bridge (石拱桥), a fountain pond (喷珠池), Qihe Tower itself, the main gate (大门), secondary gate (二门), wing rooms (厢房), and a stele pavilion (碑亭). Built upon the Zhun Ti Pavilion, Qihe Tower is flanked by the Zhun Ti Pavilion and Three Buddhas Hall, with additional buildings surrounding it. This layout creates two main courtyards that serve as dormitories and classrooms for students.

The tower was constructed to honor Mr. Chen Heting (陈鹤亭) for his significant contributions to local education. It features both traditional Chinese and Western architectural styles, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship and historical value.

In May 2006, Qihe Tower was recognized as a key cultural heritage site by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.

Historical Development

• In the seventh year of the Tongzhi reign (1868), the Zhun Ti Pavilion was rebuilt.
• Qihe Tower was first constructed in the twelfth year of the Republic of China (1923) and completed in the eighteenth year (1929), initially named Shiping County Middle School (石屏县立中学).
• It was renamed Yunnan Province Shiping Middle School (云南省石屏中学校) in the twenty-second year (1933) and later became Yunnan Provincial Normal School (云南省立师范学校) in the twenty-eighth year (1939).
• In 1952, it was transformed into Shiping County No. 1 Middle School (石屏县第一中学).

In December 2014, the cultural bureau of Shiping County completed various assessments and documentation for the site. By March 2015, renovation plans were finalized, and in April 2015, the plans were approved by the National Cultural Heritage Administration.

Architectural Layout

Qihe Tower occupies an area of about 29,805 square meters, with a building area of around 13,982 square meters. The entire complex consists of the Zhun Ti Pavilion, Three Buddhas Hall, stone arch bridge, fountain pond, Qihe Tower, main and secondary gates, wing rooms, and stele pavilion.

Main Structures

• Main Gate (大门): Built of brick and stone with a symmetrical design featuring a stone arch and iron gates. It displays the inscription “County Middle School” and a stone plaque reading “Jiahui Shilin” by Governor Tang Jiyao (唐继尧).
• Secondary Gate (二门): Similar in structure to the main gate, it features an inscription “Cultivating Talents” and acknowledges donations made for its construction.
• Stele Pavilion (碑坊): This entrance structure includes three stone tablets detailing the school’s history and contributions.
• Qihe Tower: This central structure features a four-tiered roof, with intricately designed eaves and a circular window pattern.
• Fountain Pond (喷珠池): Located north of the tower, it is surrounded by a brick wall and is adorned with a stone bridge.
• Three Buddhas Hall (三佛殿): A traditional hall featuring a combination of architectural styles.

Cultural Significance

Qihe Tower showcases a harmonious blend of traditional Chinese and Western architectural styles, holding significant historical, scientific, and artistic value.

How to Get There

Qihe Tower is approximately 107.6 kilometers from the People’s Government of Shiping County. It takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes to drive there.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather.
• Local Accommodations: Limited options are available; budget hotels range from 100 to 180 RMB, while hostels cost between 10 and 50 RMB.
• Transportation: Public buses run frequently within Shiping County, and taxis are available for local transport.

Location:

Introduction

Wutaishan Wenbi Pagoda (五台山文笔塔, Wǔtáishān Wénbǐ Tǎ) is located in Wenpan Village (文畔村, Wénpàn Cūn) on the west bank of the Mengtong River (勐通河, Méngtōng Hé), approximately 6.5 kilometers northwest of Anban Town (按板镇, Ànbǎn Zhèn) in Zhenyuan County (镇沅县, Zhènyuán Xiàn), Pu’er City (普洱市, Pǔ’ěr Shì), Yunnan Province (云南省, Yúnnán Shěng). The pagoda is a brick structure that stands 13 meters tall and is composed of three parts: the base, body, and top.

Built on the summit of Wutaishan (五台山, Wǔtáishān), the pagoda faces north and was constructed on October 20, 1878, during the Guangxu Era (光绪, Guāngxù) of the Qing Dynasty (清朝, Qīng Cháo) by Li Chunyang (李春阳, Lǐ Chūnyáng). Both Li Chunyang and his father served as deputy generals with the title of Flower Feather (花翎, Huālǐng) during the Qing Dynasty, as documented at the foot of Wutaishan.

Architectural Features

The Wenbi Pagoda is a square, six-tiered hollow structure with a small octagonal door on each side. It has a gradual narrowing design from bottom to top, with the eaves jutting out over the body of the tower. Each tier features an arched small door, supported internally by large, cross-braced wooden beams. The pagoda occupies an area of 100 square meters, showcasing significant historical value. Due to aging, the eaves and structure have suffered from weathering and erosion.

From the top of the pagoda, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view where the Mengtong River winds like a silver snake around Wutaishan, its clear waters sparkling in the sunlight.

Location and Accessibility

The Wenbi Pagoda is situated at the summit of Wutaishan, 16.5 kilometers from the Anban Town government seat, and can be reached via a scenic drive. The area is rich in pine and some broadleaf forests, with wildlife commonly seen nearby. To the east of the pagoda lies the Mengtong River, while mountain ranges stretch on either side.

Cultural Significance

Wenbi Pagoda is a historical structure cherished by the local community, where the villagers, primarily Yi (彝族, Yízú) and Han (汉族, Hànzú), place great importance on its preservation. Even the surrounding pine forests are protected from logging and resin collection.

Protection Status

Recognizing its historical and cultural importance, the Zhenyuan County People’s Government announced the Wenbi Pagoda as a county-level cultural relic protection unit on August 2, 1985.

How to Get There

To visit Wutaishan Wenbi Pagoda, travelers can take a taxi or drive from Zhenyuan County, heading towards Anban Town and following signs to Wenpan Village. The journey offers stunning views of the lush landscapes surrounding the pagoda.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and clear views.
• What to Bring: A camera to capture the beautiful scenery, comfortable shoes for climbing, and water for hydration.
• Local Etiquette: Be respectful of the local culture and traditions, especially around the pagoda.
• Nearby Attractions: Consider exploring other scenic spots in Zhenyuan County for a more comprehensive experience of the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Chinese Name:景谷营盘村文笔塔
English Name:  Yingpan Wenbi Pagoda in Jinggu County, Puer

Puer Yingpan Wenbi Pagoda in Jinggu County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, weather, accommodation, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Yingpan Wenbi Pagoda in Puer.

Chinese Name:景东县南鲸山文笔塔
English Name:  Nanjingshan Wenbi Pagoda in Jingdong County, Puer

Puer Nanjingshan Wenbi Pagoda in Jingdong County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, weather, accommodation, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Nanjingshan Wenbi Pagoda in Puer.

Chinese Name:昌宁县望江楼
English Name: Wangjiang Tower in Changning County, Baoshan

Baoshan Wangjiang Tower in Changning County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, weather, accommodation, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Wangjiang Tower in Baoshan.

Zhizhou Tower (志舟楼) is located in Fengshan Park (凤山公园), at No. 9 Huancheng North Road, Fenglu Town (凤麓镇), Fenglu Street (凤麓街道), Chengjiang City (澄江市), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). Situated in the northern part of Chengjiang, it is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Historical Background

The Wanshou Palace Period

During the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty, Zhang Shengzhi (张圣治), the magistrate of Chengjiang (澄江), built Wanshou Palace (万寿宫) at this site. He constructed pavilions and planted flowers and trees. After several renovations, the site took shape. However, due to historical changes, Wanshou Palace gradually declined and was eventually destroyed by the end of the Qing Dynasty.

The Birth of Zhizhou Tower

In 1943, Liu Chenggong (刘承功), then county magistrate of Chengjiang (澄江), saw the potential of this location. Over the course of two years, he oversaw the construction of a three-story wooden tower on the site of the former Wanshou Palace. When it was completed, coinciding with the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japan, he named it “Zhizhou Tower (志舟楼)” using the courtesy name of Long Yun (龙云), then Chairman of Yunnan Province.

Cultural Legacy

After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the local government expanded and restored Zhizhou Tower, turning it into the central feature of what is now the largest park in Chengjiang. In recent years, it has also become an exhibition venue for local cultural works including calligraphy, painting, photography, and embroidery.

Folk Customs

Chengjiang (澄江) features a rich variety of folk activities, including traditional festivals such as Spring Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival. Fengshan Park (凤山公园), where Zhizhou Tower is located, is also a key recreational space for locals, regularly hosting morning exercises and public square dancing.

Weather and Best Travel Time

Chengjiang enjoys a subtropical highland monsoon climate with distinct seasons and a mild average annual temperature of around 15°C. It experiences neither extreme cold in winter nor intense heat in summer. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the climate is most pleasant and the scenery is at its best.

Recommended Attractions and Duration

Zhizhou Tower (志舟楼): Approx. 1 hour. The three-story wooden structure features a hip-and-gable roof and is built entirely with mortise and tenon joints on a one-foot stone foundation, showcasing a unique architectural style.

Fengshan Park (凤山公园): Approx. 2 hours. The park offers attractions such as a koi pond, cultural corridor, and wellness trails amid beautiful natural surroundings.

General’s Tomb (将军坟): Approx. 10 minutes. Located within the park, this is the resting place of General Luo Peijin (罗佩金), with an engraved tombstone commemorating his life achievements.

Entrance Fee

Zhizhou Tower (志舟楼) and Fengshan Park (凤山公园) are open to the public free of charge.

Transportation

• By Car: From Kunming (昆明), drive along the Kunming–Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速), approximately 100 kilometers or 1.5 hours.
• By Public Transport: Take a bus from Kunming to Chengjiang (澄江), then walk or transfer to a local bus.

Local Food

Chengjiang (澄江) is known for its local specialties such as copper pot fish (铜锅鱼), Chengjiang lotus root starch (澄江藕粉), and wild fish from Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖). These dishes can be enjoyed at local restaurants.

Shopping

Popular souvenirs include Chengjiang lotus root starch (澄江藕粉) and seasonings for copper pot fish (铜锅鱼调料), which are available in the city center.

Accommodation

• City Hotels: Chengjiang (澄江) offers several hotels with reasonable prices.
• Guesthouses: Unique guesthouses are available around Fengshan Park (凤山公园) for a more local experience.

Travel Tips

• Environmental Protection: Do not litter in scenic areas; help preserve the natural surroundings.
• Safety: Follow safety guidelines, especially when exploring elevated areas.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Chengjiang (澄江) in the morning. Visit Fengshan Park (凤山公园) and explore Zhizhou Tower (志舟楼). In the afternoon, visit General’s Tomb (将军坟) and learn about local historical figures.
Day 2: In the morning, explore Chengjiang city center, enjoy local cuisine, and shop for souvenirs. Return in the afternoon.

Zhizhou Tower (志舟楼) stands as a prominent historical and cultural landmark in Chengjiang (澄江), offering both rich heritage and beautiful scenery. May your journey to Chengjiang leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for this cultural treasure.

Chinese Name: 昭通昭阳区望海公园
English Name: Wanghailou Tower Park in Zhaoyang District, Zhaotong

Overview

Wanghai Park is built around Enbo Tower, which stands at the foot of Phoenix Mountain. Originally constructed in the 25th year of the Qianlong era of the Qing Dynasty (1760 AD), the tower was known as “Wanghai Tower” or “Sea Viewing Tower.” At that time, the surrounding area was covered by vast waters with rippling waves. The Governor of Yunnan, Ai Xing’a, visited the tower and was impressed by the reflection of willows in the sunlight and the shimmering water. He renamed the tower “Enbo Tower,” which means the Emperor’s Grace is boundless. During the Xianfeng period, the tower was destroyed by fire. In the late Guangxu period, Yang Luxian raised substantial funds to rebuild it and added houses, corridors, pavilions, and gardens. In 2010, Wanghai Park was officially completed, including the renovation of Enbo Tower and the creation of an artificial lake. The park has since become a major attraction in Zhaotong City.

Park Features

Wanghai Park features picturesque scenery, including a central pavilion, suspension bridges, arch bridges, and a small sandy beach. The park is compact and free to enter. The main attraction is its lake, which is home to many fish. Wanghai Tower, constructed in 1760 by Shen Shenglin, a magistrate of En’an County, was designated as a city-level cultural heritage site in 1983. After its destruction during the Xianfeng period, it was rebuilt in the Guangxu era and renovated again in 2010. The park is now part of the “Eight Scenic Views of Zhaoyang” and showcases a renewed appearance.

Tourism and Attractions

The park’s highlights include:

• A man-made island with trees.
• A white arch bridge that resembles a dragon gliding over the water.
• A small artificial beach, ideal for children.
• The Wanghai Tower, a historical and scenic landmark, offering a space for relaxation and exercise.

Travel Tips

1. Plan your visit in advance to ensure ample time for exploration.
2. Prepare for changing weather conditions by bringing rain gear and sun protection.
3. Be respectful and adhere to local customs while in the park.

Nearby Attractions

• Shenggong Cultural Park
  ? Location: Intersection of Zhaotong Avenue and East Ring Road, 50 meters north
  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5
  Hours: Open all day
  Shenggong Cultural Park offers an ecological lakeside environment, blending urban and agricultural culture, perfect for leisure and cultural experiences.
• Dongdasi Temple
  ? Location: 198 Jianshe South Road, Zhaoyang District
  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5
  Hours: Open all day
  The temple provides a pleasant visit during early winter with its unique cultural atmosphere and a local halal dumpling shop.

Overall Experience

Wanghai Park is a beautiful destination for both sightseeing and relaxation, also serving as a venue for public events and cultural activities. It is a must-visit spot in Zhaotong, combining natural beauty with historical significance.

How to Get There

Wanghai Park is located at the foot of Phoenix Mountain in Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province, China. To reach the park from the ancient city of Zhaotong, take bus number 11 directly to Wanghai Tower Station. The park is conveniently situated by the roadside and does not require an entrance fee.

Chinese Name: 丘北县多宝座和尚塔
English Name: Duobaozuo Monk Pagoda in Qiubei County, Wenshan

Overview

The Duobaozuo Monk Pagoda is an ancient stone pagoda located just 5 meters behind the teaching building of Yuezhe Middle School in Yuezhe Town, Qiubei County, Wenshan Prefecture, Yunnan Province. The pagoda was constructed in the 30th year of the Daoguang Emperor’s reign during the Qing Dynasty, which corresponds to the year 1850.

Description

The pagoda is a five-tiered, conical structure built in the traditional Chinese “密檐式” (multi-eaved) style. It is made of bluestone and stands at a height of 3.53 meters. The base of the pagoda is designed in the “须弥座” (Sumeru pedestal) style, which is a common feature in Buddhist architecture. As the structure ascends, each level gradually tapers towards the top.

The remains of Monk Liao Changshan are interred beneath the base of the pagoda. The front of the pagoda features an inscription engraved in the stone, reading “多宝座” (Duobaozuo), meaning “Treasure Seat.” Additionally, a memorial tablet at the site is inscribed with “仁亮禅师号善长廖公老师爷墓” (The Tomb of Master Renliang, Chan Master Shanzhang, Liao Gong, the Teacher).

The Duobaozuo Monk Pagoda is recognized as a county-level cultural relic protection unit in Qiubei County, reflecting its historical and cultural significance.

Yuezhe Town

Yuezhe Town, where the pagoda is located, lies in the northwest part of Qiubei County at a latitude of 24º48’N and a longitude of 103º19’E, approximately 28 kilometers from the county seat. The town is bordered by Shuanglongying’s Puzhehei Village Committee to the east, Badoushao’s Lijiazhuang and Dabuhong Village Committees to the south, Shedexiang’s Xiqueluo Village Committee to the west, and Guanzhaixiang’s Shuitou Village Committee to the north.

Yuezhe Town governs six village committees: Yuezhe, Xinzha, Damushan, Honghuashan, Chushuizhai, and Puke. These committees oversee 97 natural villages and 99 village groups, home to a diverse population of 33,171 people from six ethnic groups, including Han, Zhuang, Miao, Yi, Hui, and Bai, across 7,137 households.

Chinese Name: 广南县文笔塔
English Name: Wenbi Tower in Guangnan County, Wenshan

Overview

Wenbi Tower is an 11-tiered hollow pagoda located on the summit of Santai Slope, 13 kilometers south of Guangnan County’s town center, near Basha Village. The tower faces the ancient city of Liantang, creating a picturesque and historic landscape. This architectural masterpiece, known as a Yunjiao (cloud angle) pagoda, stands as a significant cultural relic from the Qing Dynasty, embodying the aspirations for local cultural development and the cultivation of talents.

Architectural Features

• Height and Structure: The tower stands 36.8 meters tall, with a base height of 1.8 meters and a main tower height of 35 meters. The base is hexagonal, built with stone blocks, each side measuring 4.8 meters in width. The tower is constructed from blue bricks and tapers naturally as it ascends, culminating in a pen-shaped pinnacle.
• Design: Each level of the tower features decorative arched windows on the front and rear, with the seventh and tenth levels having notably deeper recesses. The meticulous design and solid construction have earned Wenbi Tower the title “The Tallest Pagoda in Southern Yunnan.”

Historical Significance and Restoration

The tower was originally built in the 30th year of the Daoguang Emperor’s reign (1850) during the Qing Dynasty. However, it suffered significant damage over time, particularly after being struck by lightning, which caused the partial collapse of the pinnacle and the expansion of cracks throughout the structure. The base also experienced extensive vandalism, with thousands of bricks removed, leading to concerns about the tower’s potential collapse.

From February to May 1982, a major restoration project was undertaken to preserve this important historical monument. During the restoration, a bronze statue of “Wenchang Dijun,” the deity of culture and literature, was discovered in a window of the seventh level, and a bronze statue of “Kuixing Bodhisattva” was found in the tenth-level window. These statues, standing 51 centimeters tall and weighing between 8.4 and 10.9 kilograms, were skillfully crafted and are now integral to the tower’s historical narrative.

Additional artifacts discovered during the restoration included five crystal crown jewels in red, yellow, blue, white, and black, as well as a broken wooden box containing a fragmented book, 100 deteriorated writing brushes, and an intricately carved circular stone inkstone. The inkstone, with a diameter of 8 centimeters, bore the inscription “Yan Tower Name Inscription” dated to the first year of the Xianfeng Emperor’s reign (1851), confirming the construction date of the tower.

To prevent further deterioration, glass bricks were installed in the windows to protect the interior artifacts from weather damage. A lightning rod was also added to protect the tower from future strikes, and semicircular concrete steps were built at the entrance to facilitate visitor access. A protective railing was erected around the tower, enhancing its grandeur and accessibility.

Cultural and Scenic Value

Wenbi Tower occupies the highest point of Santai Slope, offering expansive views of the surrounding mountainous terrain, lush with ancient pines and cypresses. The picturesque scenery of the Lianhua region unfolds to the north, with the distant view of Liantang City broadening the viewer’s perspective and evoking a sense of tranquility.

To enhance the cultural ambiance of the site, a three-bay, antique-style concrete archway inscribed with the words “Lianjun Scenic Spot” was constructed at the entrance of Santai Slope during the tower’s restoration. Additionally, two traditional-style pavilions named “Qingfeng Pavilion” and “Wanglian Pavilion” were built on either side of the hilltop, adding to the area’s scenic charm and making Wenbi Tower a more captivating destination.

Historical Recognition

Wenbi Tower is a relic from the Qing Dynasty. According to the “Gazetteer of Guangnan,” the tower was originally constructed during the Jiaqing Emperor’s reign by Governor He Yu and local residents. The discovery of the inkstone in 1982, however, accurately dates the tower to the early Xianfeng period (1851).

In 1993, Wenbi Tower was designated as a key cultural relic under provincial protection, underscoring its significance in Yunnan’s historical and cultural heritage.

Name (Chinese): 景谷勐卧总佛寺
Name (English): Mengwo Temple in Jinggu County, Puer

Mengwo Temple is located in Weiyuan Town, Jinggu County, Puer City, Yunnan Province. The temple is renowned for its “Tree Wrapped Pagoda” and “Pagoda Wrapped Tree” phenomena, which make it a unique and culturally significant site. The temple complex features two ancient pagodas, each topped with a centuries-old Bodhi tree that intertwines with the pagoda, creating a mesmerizing natural and architectural wonder.

Key Attractions:

1. Tree-Wrapped Stupa (塔包树) and Stupa-Wrapped Tree (树包塔):
   The temple’s highlight is its two ancient pagodas, each featuring a remarkable natural phenomenon.
   • Stupa-Wrapped Tree (树包塔): A Bodhi tree growing from the top of a pagoda, its roots not yet fully visible, creating a striking image of nature enveloping the structure.
   • Tree-Wrapped Stupa (塔包树): A Bodhi tree growing around the pagoda, intertwining with it and forming a seamless blend of tree and tower.
2. Ancient Pagodas:
   Built in 1644, these pagodas are constructed from red sandstone with detailed carvings of the twelve zodiac signs and lotus patterns. They stand 10.74 meters tall with six tiers, showcasing intricate local craftsmanship.
3. Bodhi Trees:
   Two Bodhi trees, one on each pagoda, symbolize spiritual growth and enlightenment. The trees’ intertwined roots and branches create a unique visual harmony.

Historical Context: The twin pagodas were constructed during the late Ming and early Qing Dynasties (1628-1661) by the local Dai chieftain, Dao Han. They reflect traditional Dai architecture and religious significance, representing an important site for studying Dai Buddhist culture and history. In 1983, the site was designated as a county-level cultural relic protection unit, and in 1993, it was elevated to a provincial-level protection unit.

Nearby Attractions:

1. Xiaohei River Forest Park (小黑江森林公园):
   • Location: National Highway 323, Jinggu County, Pu’er
   • Opening Hours: 08:00 – 18:00
   • Highlights: A lush green area perfect for relaxation and nature walks.
2. Pu’er Tea Horse Road Tourist Area (普洱茶马古道旅游景区):
   • Location: Pu’er Avenue, Simao District, Pu’er City
   • Opening Hours: 08:00 – 18:00
   • Highlights: Experience the historical trade route of tea and horses, offering insights into ancient trade and culture.

Itinerary Suggestion:

1. Mengwo Temple – Explore the historical pagodas and unique natural phenomena.
2. Xiaohei River Forest Park – Enjoy the serene natural environment and fresh air.
3. Pu’er Tea Horse Road Tourist Area – Dive into the rich history of tea trading and local culture.

Entrance Tickets

• Price: Tickets are generally inexpensive. Check local travel agencies or the temple’s official website for current pricing.
• Booking: Tickets can often be purchased on-site, but it’s advisable to check for any booking requirements or restrictions in advance.

Best Time to Visit

• Season: The best time to visit is during the dry season from October to April. The weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring the outdoor sites.
• Weather: Avoid the rainy season (May to September) due to potential flooding and slippery paths.

How to Get There

• From Puer City: Travel by car or bus from Puer City to Weiyuan Town. The temple is approximately 80 kilometers away and the journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Public Transport: Buses from Puer City to Weiyuan Town are available. From the bus station, you may need to take a taxi or local transport to the temple.

Highlights

• Unique Natural Wonders: The “Tree Wrapped Pagoda” and “Pagoda Wrapped Tree” offer a rare natural spectacle.
• Cultural and Historical Significance: The temple and pagodas provide insight into the local Dai culture and architectural history.

Facts

• Established: The pagodas were built in 1644 during the Qing Dynasty.
• Cultural Significance: The temple is a significant site for local Dai Buddhists and attracts numerous pilgrims and tourists.

History

• Construction: The pagodas were constructed by the local Dai rulers and are examples of South Asian Theravada Buddhist architecture.
• Cultural Relevance: The intertwining of trees and pagodas is a symbol of harmony between nature and religion, and is a celebrated phenomenon in local folklore.

Photos

• Pagodas and Trees: Captivating photos of the pagodas with Bodhi trees growing from the tops.
• Temple Grounds: Images of the serene surroundings and the intricate carvings on the pagodas.

Weather

• Temperature: Mild temperatures throughout the year, with cooler weather in the winter months and warmer temperatures during the summer.
• Precipitation: Minimal rain during the dry season; heavier rainfall during the wet season.

Accommodation

• Nearby Options: There are various accommodation options in Weiyuan Town and Puer City, ranging from budget hotels to more comfortable stays.
• Recommendations: Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Visiting Routes

1. Mengwo Temple: Explore the pagodas and the unique natural features.
2. Xiaohei River Forest Park: A nearby park ideal for nature walks and relaxation.
3. Puer Tea Horse Road Scenic Area: Experience the historical tea trade route and its cultural significance.

Travel Tips

• Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking.
• Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local religious practices and traditions.
• Prepare for the Weather: Check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.

Chinese Name: 孟连县大金塔
English Name: Menglian Golden Pagoda in Puer

Address: Menglian County, Pu’er City

Introduction: The Dajin Tower, a striking golden pagoda, reflects typical South Asian cultural influences and Theravada Buddhism. Completed in April 1997, it consists of a central tower surrounded by 24 smaller pagodas. The main tower stands 31.6 meters tall, with each pagoda adorned with wind chimes. The chimes produce a melodious sound when the wind blows, believed by the Dai people to be celestial music, evoking a sense of a divine realm.

The Dajin Tower faces the Menglian Xuanfu Office Gate and symbolizes unity and progress among the people of Menglian. The Xuanfu Office, known in Dai as “He Han” meaning “Golden Palace,” complements the Dajin Tower, making it a prominent landmark in the region. It is the largest gilded pagoda in the province and adds a distinctive charm to Menglian.

Origin: The Dajin Tower’s creation is closely tied to the Menglian Xuanfu Office. Legend has it that the local people believed a pagoda should complement the “Golden Palace,” leading to the construction of the Dajin Tower. Upon completion, it harmoniously enhanced the grandeur of the “Golden Palace.”

Architectural Features:

• Construction Date: The pagoda, completed in April 1997, exhibits some Han cultural influences due to its relatively recent construction.
• Dragons and Cranes: The pagoda is surrounded by dragon sculptures in Han style, which is unusual for Dai culture. Additionally, cranes, symbolic of good fortune in Daoism, are included, though the peacock is the traditional auspicious bird in Dai culture.
• Buddha Statues: Inside the pagoda’s inner sanctum is a statue of Maitreya Buddha, a future Buddha in Mahayana Buddhism, indicating an integration of Mahayana concepts into the Theravada tradition.
• Wall Paintings: The inner walls feature scenes from Journey to the West, reflecting the influence of modern media and popular taste on traditional Buddhist iconography.

Auxiliary Structures: The pagoda is surrounded by four square pavilions, known in Dai as “Chi Ola,” meaning “pavilion for guidance.” Positioned at the four cardinal directions, these pavilions each house one of the Four Heavenly Kings:

• South: King of Growth, controlling the wind.
• East: King of Protection, managing order.
• North: King of Abundance, overseeing rain.
• West: King of Vision, ensuring harmony.

These guardians represent stability and prosperity, symbolizing favorable weather conditions and peace.

Visitors’ Experience:

• Outer Space: The pagoda’s structure is “solid outside and empty inside,” with the inner sanctum restricted to male visitors only.
• Spiritual Offerings: Outside the pagoda, visitors can tie strings to various Buddha statues, believed to prevent illness and bring good fortune.

The Dajin Tower is not only a place of spiritual significance but also a unique cultural landmark reflecting the blend of various influences and traditions.

Chinese Name:景谷县树包塔塔包树
English Name: Tree-wrapped Pagoda and Tower-wraped Tree in Jinggu County, Puer

The Tree-wrapped Pagoda and Tower-wrapped Tree, located within the Dai Buddhist temple known as Guan Mian Temple in Jinggu County, Puer City, Yunnan, are two extraordinary and unique cultural landmarks. This iconic site, featuring two pagodas each intertwined with banyan trees, is renowned for its fusion of natural and architectural beauty. Below is a detailed guide about this attraction.

Location and Features

• Tree-wrapped Pagoda (树包塔): Located on the east side of the temple, this pagoda features a gourd-shaped structure with a square base of over 4 meters. It stands about 10 meters tall. A massive banyan tree, over two girths wide, grows from the center of the pagoda’s top, with its canopy spreading wide like an umbrella. The tree’s roots tightly embrace the stone structure, creating a beautiful and harmonious blend of nature and architecture.
• Tower-wrapped Tree (塔包树): Positioned on the west side of the temple, this structure also resembles a gourd-shaped pagoda. Here, a smaller banyan tree, about one girth thick, grows from the tower’s center. The white pagoda firmly wraps around the tree, creating a fascinating contrast of the ancient stone tower encasing the living tree within its structure.

Historical Background and Significance

• Both pagodas were constructed in 1644. Due to the humid climate of Jinggu, birds deposited banyan seeds into the crevices of the pagoda bricks. Over centuries, these seeds germinated, with roots intertwining and wrapping around the pagodas, leading to the current breathtaking sight. This unique combination of natural growth and human-made structure has made the site a cultural and spiritual symbol in the region.
• The site is part of the Mengwo Zong Temple (勐卧总佛寺), the largest temple complex in Jinggu, historically serving as a central place of worship for the local Dai community. The name “Mengwo” refers to Jinggu’s ancient name, meaning “a place with salt wells.”

Best Time to Visit

• The ideal time to visit the Tree-wrapped Pagoda and Tower-wrapped Tree is during the dry season, between November and April. The weather is generally pleasant, making it easier to explore the temple grounds. During this time, the banyan trees are in full foliage, providing a vibrant green contrast against the stone pagodas.

How to Get There

1. From Jinggu County Center: The temple is located within the town, so visitors can easily reach it on foot, by bicycle, or by local transport. The route is well-signposted with red-brown tourist signs.
2. From Puer City: Puer is about 170 km from Jinggu County. Travelers can take a long-distance bus from Puer to Jinggu, which typically takes about 3-4 hours. Upon arrival in Jinggu, visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.
3. By Private Vehicle: Renting a car is a convenient option for those traveling from Puer or other nearby cities. The roads are well-maintained, and signage to the temple is clear.

Useful Travel Tips

• Admission: The temple and pagoda complex are open to the public free of charge. Donations are often welcomed for temple maintenance.
• Dress Code: As a religious site, visitors should dress modestly. Wearing long pants or skirts and avoiding sleeveless tops is advisable.
• Photography: While photography is generally allowed, be respectful of the local culture and any worshippers present. Some inner temple areas might restrict photography.
• Local Culture: Jinggu County is predominantly inhabited by the Dai ethnic group, who practice Theravada Buddhism. Understanding and respecting local customs and practices will enhance your visit.
• Amenities: There are basic amenities near the temple, including small shops and stalls selling snacks, beverages, and local handicrafts. However, it’s a good idea to bring water and some snacks, especially if planning to spend a significant amount of time exploring.

Conclusion

The Tree-wrapped Pagoda and Tower-wrapped Tree are must-see attractions for anyone visiting Jinggu County or Puer City. These sites offer a unique glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of nature and architecture over centuries.

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