Baitayu Pagoda

Baitayu Pagoda

Baitayu Pagoda is a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

Era: Liao Dynasty

Address: On a hill south of Jiulong Mountain, Tagou Village, Baita Township, Xingcheng City, Huludao, Liaoning Province

This pagoda is commonly known as the Octagonal Exquisite Pagoda, also called the Nine Dragons Mist Pagoda, and is one of the ancient Eight Scenic Spots of Xingcheng. Originally named the "Kongtong Mountain Wujì Temple Relic Pagoda," it belonged to the Kongtong Mountain Wujì Monastery of Haiyun Temple on Guanyin Island. Construction began in the eighth year of the Da’an era (1092 AD) during the reign of Emperor Daozong (Yelü Hongji) of the Liao Dynasty.

The area features uniquely shaped peaks surrounding the site, with streams converging here. On rainy days, mist and clouds drift mysteriously over Jiulong Mountain, creating an otherworldly atmosphere as if entering a fairyland. Hence the name "Nine Dragons Mist Pagoda." This Liao Dynasty brick pagoda boasts a unique design and exquisite structure.

The pagoda stands tall and majestic, piercing the sky. A poem by Ma Chang of the Qing Dynasty titled "Jiulong Ancient Pagoda" reads: “Lofty on the mountainside, standing through a thousand years of slopes; celestial dragons guard the relic, cloud-tigers shield the fierce realm; peak stones flow with glacial whispers, the heavens bless with abundant rain; the eastern campaign’s legacy remains, inscribed in the annals of arms.” The Ningyuan Prefecture Records state: “Jiulong’s rugged peaks are the most exquisite of all mountains, with springs flowing even in midsummer where ice often gleams. The pagoda lies to its south, eight-sided and thirteen stories high, towering beyond the mundane world.” The Xingcheng County Records note: “The Exquisite Pagoda is located about five li west of the city on Jiulong Mountain, eight-sided, with four Buddhas and four steles.”

In May 2013, Baitayu Pagoda was announced as part of the seventh batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units.

Further Reading:

· Seventh Batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units