Chunqiu Tower in Yuncheng

Chunqiu Tower in Yuncheng

Located in the northern part of the rear courtyard of the Guan Di Temple in Xiezhou. It stands vertically aligned with structures such as the Wumen (Meridian Gate), the Imperial Calligraphy Tower, and the Chongning Hall, separated by low walls to form its own distinct layout. The overall design follows the ancient principle of “front court for administration, rear chambers for residence.” Inside the tower is a statue of Guan Yu reading the “Spring and Autumn Annals,” hence the name. As the “Spring and Autumn Annals” is also known as the “Linzijing” (Book of the Unicorn Scripture), the tower is also called the Linjing Tower. The existing structure was rebuilt in the ninth year of the Tongzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty (１８７０).

Seven bays wide and six bays deep, the two-story, triple-eaved building features a hip-and-gable roof and stands 30 meters tall, presenting a majestic and magnificent sight. Both upper and lower floors are surrounded by corridors, with railings connecting all sides for visitors to lean on. The eaves are adorned with exquisitely carved wooden reliefs depicting dragons, phoenixes, floating clouds, flowers, figures, and animals, showcasing fine craftsmanship and delicate transparency. The roof is covered with colorful glazed tiles...

...that shimmer brilliantly. Inside the tower stands a statue of Guan Yu reading the “Spring and Autumn Annals” from the side, his right hand resting on the desk and left hand holding his beard, with a lifelike expression. On the east and west sides of the tower, there are staircases with 36 steps each for ascending and descending. The tower’s structure is ingeniously unique: the corridor pillars on the upper floor stand on the hanging lotus pillars of the lower floor, with the hanging pillars appearing suspended and supported internally by diagonal bracing, giving the visual impression that the upper structure is floating. From the top, you can enjoy a distant view of the salt lake, white as a silver expanse, and the Zhongtiao Mountain, lush as a green screen. Within the temple, ancient cypresses tower above, vines cling to the trees, and rare flowers and plants compete in beauty. When the wind blows, the bells on the tower chime harmoniously, creating a delightful temple atmosphere.

Suggested Duration

2 hours

Admission Fee

25.00 CNY

Opening Hours

Summer: 08:00–18:30

Winter: 08:00–17:30

Location

Guan Di Temple, Jiezhou Town, Yanhu District, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province