Mingxiang Tower

Mingxiang Tower

“Layer upon layer of mist veils the mountain realm,” where the twin peaks of Zhishan Mountain stand tall in competition for beauty, and the crenellated city walls and watchtowers rise majestically. Ascending the mountain path, passing by “Huiquan” (the Spring of Wisdom), and walking through the arched gate of the pass tower, you’ll see lush woods and slender bamboos in the mountain hollows, framing the scene on both sides — and there stands Mingxiang Tower.

The quaint and elegant Mingxiang Tower is a building with upturned eaves and a hip-and-gable roof. Nestled amidst green trees and emerald bamboos, it faces east and backs onto the mountain, with water before it, connected to a small pavilion and side rooms to the south. Mingxiang Tower uses the mountain as its backdrop, seemingly merging with and yet distinct from the clear pool nearby. The surrounding landscape of mountains, waters, flowers, and trees becomes an integral part of its scenery.

In front of Mingxiang Tower lies a winding bridge over a clear pool, surrounded by intricately carved railings. Shade trees grow densely along the pond, while fish swim gracefully in the water, offering a scene perfect for lingering. To the south, Caixiu Mountain House is half in the water and half on the shore, serving as an ideal spot for literati to spread out their paper and paintbrushes, exchanging artistic skills. To the north of the tower runs a covered walkway, its roof entwined with wisteria vines. Within the corridor, an ancient well is preserved — according to research, it was dug by monks during the Northern Song Dynasty. Now restored, the well water is clear, sweet, and never runs dry all year round. At the end of the corridor stands a Diecui Pavilion (Pavilion of Layered Greenery), surrounded by pines, bamboos, and tea bushes, all in vibrant green harmony. Deep within the bamboo grove, a secluded path winds its way up to the Xiaofeng Pavilion (Pavilion of Whistling Wind) atop the hill, creating a uniquely charming atmosphere.

Mingxiang Tower is built on the former site of the Ruyi Lecture Temple from the Song Dynasty, and today it is exclusively dedicated to being a teahouse, often filled with visitors. Stepping into Mingxiang Tower, one finds latticed windows covered with paper and lined with gauze, through which the shadows of bamboos filter in, casting the room in a cool, verdant hue, and bringing a refreshing chill to the tables and chairs. “The precious tripod emits lingering green smoke even when the tea is done brewing; by the quiet window, the fingers still feel cool after finishing a game of chess.” Drawing water from the ancient well and channeling the flow from “Huiquan,” the tea is brewed with simmering water, steam curling above the purple clay teapot. One may enjoy solitude here, savoring tea slowly and mindfully; or gather with good friends, sitting close together in mutual greeting. With the tower like a painting and the fragrance of tea filling the room, what greater joy is there than to let your eyes roam and your spirit wander?