Fengshan Water Gate

Fengshan Water Gate

Fengshan Water Gate is a cultural relic protection unit of Zhejiang Province.

Fengshan Water Gate, located east of Fengshan Gate and spanning Zhong River, was also built by Zhang Shicheng. Later generations, due to its close connection to Fengshan Gate, called it Fengshan Water Gate. It is the only well-preserved ancient city gate in downtown Hangzhou that has stood for over 600 years.

The Fengshan Water Gate is formed by two stone arches with different spans connected together. The southern span is more than one zhang and three chi, while the northern span is one zhang and seven chi. Between them is a square stone sluice gate, behind which there are carved stone gate pivots that allow the gate to be opened and closed. At the center of the top of each arch is a carved keystone featuring a coiled dragon, used to secure the gate. A tower was built atop the gate, which could house over a hundred soldiers. It served both to defend against surprise attacks and to operate the gate for water regulation. Unfortunately, due to years of neglect, the gate tower has collapsed, the walls are damaged, and the sluice gate is now difficult to find. During the 1980s when Zhong River was renovated, the water gate was restored to its original appearance, and a park was created nearby. In the park stands a stone tablet inscribed with the words “Galaxy Twin Falls” (银河双落), written by General Zhang Aiping, who was then Vice Premier of the State Council and Minister of National Defense.

Further Reading:

· Sixth Batch of Cultural Relic Protection Units of Zhejiang Province