Miaodao Temple Twin Pagodas

Miaodao Temple Twin Pagodas

The Miaodao Temple Twin Pagodas are a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

The Linji Twin Pagodas, also known as the "Wild Goose Pagodas," are located in the northern part of Linji County, standing opposite each other to the east and west. These pagodas were originally built during the Sui and Tang dynasties. The site was once a temple, but the temple has since been destroyed, leaving only the twin pagodas.

The "Twin Pagodas’ Shadow Intersection," also called the "Twin Pagodas’ Slanted Shadows," refers to the phenomenon where, on the evening of the 15th day of the first and ninth lunar months, and the morning of the 16th day of the third and seventh lunar months, the sun and moon are simultaneously located on the eastern and western horizons (or vice versa). The light from the sun and moon shines on the twin pagodas from opposite directions, causing their shadows—standing east and west—to slowly move toward each other from different directions and merge together.

Historically, many poets and scholars have described the "Twin Pagodas’ Shadow Intersection." Unfortunately, there are no written records explaining why such a unique pagoda arrangement was created. However, we might find some clues from related legends.

Legend has it that the story of Xu Xian and the White Snake originally took place in Linji. Out of jealousy over the love between Xu Xian and the White Snake, Fahai trapped them inside two pagodas using a "net-and-bowl" trap.

The White Snake was hidden in the western pagoda, hence called the "White Snake Pagoda"; Xu Xian was concealed in the eastern pagoda, hence called the "Xu Xian Pagoda." The seventh floor of the Xu Xian Pagoda also houses a painting of the two lovers, while the third floor features an iron statue of Xu Xian’s head, facing the western pagoda, gazing at it day and night. Moved by the sincere love between Xu Xian and the White Snake, the Jade Emperor ordered the Heavenly Official of Great Clarity to place a treasure in each pagoda, allowing the couple to meet once a year on Qixi (Chinese Valentine’s Day). Since then, on every Qixi evening, the shadows of the twin pagodas slowly merge under the moonlight, leaning close to each other as if the loving couple has been reunited.

Another legend says that on the evening of the 15th day of the first lunar month, when lanterns are displayed across the city and countryside, two beautiful women emerge gracefully from the pagodas—one dressed in pink and the other in apple green. They stand not far from the crowds, smiling as they watch the lanterns.

Although these legendary stories are myths, the times described in them largely match the times of the "Twin Pagodas’ Shadow Intersection" as determined through research and verification. From this, it can be inferred that the "Twin Pagodas’ Shadow Intersection" phenomenon is not accidental but rather a scientific marvel created by ancient Chinese craftsmen. The architecture embodies profound science, and science is expressed through mythology—this is indeed an important and common form of showcasing ancient Chinese technological wisdom.

Further Reading:

· Sixth Batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units