Weishi Xingguo Temple Pagoda

Weishi Xingguo Temple Pagoda

Weishi Xingguo Temple Pagoda is a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

Xingguo Temple Pagoda has a long history. Built during the Taiping Xingguo era of the Northern Song Dynasty (976–984 AD), it has a history of over 1,000 years. In 1963, the ancient pagoda was listed among the first batch of key cultural relics protection units in Henan Province. The height of each tier of the pagoda decreases progressively from the bottom up, and the width of the balconies also gradually tapers. A vase-shaped bronze finial crowns the top. The overall appearance of the pagoda is solemn, dignified, sturdy, and upright. The pagoda is constructed of brick, with both its interior and exterior built using green bricks laid in a horizontal technique, ensuring a tight interlock between bricks, which contributes to its solid and stable structure. Each tier consists of a balcony, the main body of the pagoda, and projecting eaves. The bracket sets (dougong) under the eaves and on the balconies are built in brick but mimic wooden construction. The dougong components are proportionally large, meticulously crafted, and come in two types—four and five tiers—which exemplify the refined architectural artistry of the Song Dynasty.

Another notable feature of Xingguo Temple Pagoda is the presence of brick-carved niches inset into both the inner and outer walls. These niches are square-shaped, stone-like in texture, and recessed in a circular form. The relief carvings inside the niches mainly fall into two types: one depicts Buddhas seated cross-legged with exposed chests, and the other shows Bodhisattvas sitting cross-legged with one leg bent. There are also various other forms, including standing and seated figures. All the niches were carved using the round chisel technique, resulting in smooth lines, exquisite craftsmanship, and vividly lifelike images. Currently, there are 410 niches remaining—288 on the outer wall and 122 on the inner wall. Due to severe damage during the Cultural Revolution and the burial of one layer underground, it is now impossible to determine the exact number of Buddha and Bodhisattva figures. Except for the ground floor, where salt and moisture erosion have taken a toll, the niches are distributed across every tier in an orderly fashion, adorning the entire pagoda beautifully. Experts note that these niches hold significant value for the study of Buddhist culture and sculpture art.

Entering through the doorway at the base, you will find a brick-built central pillar and a spiral corridor. The corridor is extremely narrow, allowing only one person to pass through at a time. The brick stairs are also very steep. Spiraling upwards around the central pillar to reach the top, the central pillar is integrated with the surrounding walls. Inside the brick core pillar, wooden pillars and balance beams are used for structural support. The architectural design inside the pagoda is ingenious—both airy and solid. At the top, there are five door openings, allowing ample light into the interior. On the southern brick pillar is embedded a stone tablet inscribed with the record of the pagoda and its top three tiers being renovated in the 25th year of the Jiajing reign (1546 AD), though unfortunately, the inscriptions have become blurred. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the scenery of Weishi County.

The ancient pagoda has endured a thousand years of wind and rain erosion, floods, and wars. Particularly in 1938, when the Japanese invaded Weishi, shelling and flooding caused severe damage to the pagoda. Despite this, the pagoda still stands firmly today, fully demonstrating the wisdom and exceptional architectural skill of ancient Chinese builders.

Further Reading:

· First Batch of Henan Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Units

· Sixth Batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units