Yibin White Tower

Yibin White Tower

On Denggao Mountain (also known as East Mountain) to the east of Yibin City stands an imposing ancient tower called the White Tower, also known as the East Wild Goose Pagoda. It is located on the eastern mountain (also called Denggao Mountain) on the north bank of the city’s river. Constructed during the Longqing era of the Ming Dynasty (1567–1572 AD), the tower features a hollow, dense-eave, hexagonal, conical brick-and-stone structure with eight levels, standing 35.8 meters tall with sides measuring 4.45 meters and a base diameter of 11.2 meters. The tower gate is adorned with dragon carvings wrapped around pillars; the base is sculpted with Atlas figures. Inside, a spiral staircase leads to the top. At the summit, there is a platform of about six to seven square meters, offering a panoramic view of Yibin City and the surrounding landscape, making it an excellent spot for enjoying the scenery. The Qing Dynasty poet Yang Duan once wrote: “With bamboo staff and straw sandals, my spirits run high; in open fields, I hear the clear sound of reed flutes. Eager to climb the White Tower for an autumn view, I drift a boat at sunset. Beyond the hills, white clouds flow like water; by the river, red trees outshine flowers. Returning, I feel no weariness from the journey, but seek a riverside tavern for wine.” The White Tower was listed as a key cultural relic under protection by Yibin City in 1982 and underwent comprehensive restoration in 1984. Nearby, there are the ruins of Denggao Mountain City and Gaoyuan. Just dozens of steps from the tower lies Bao'en Temple, also known as White Tower Temple. The temple features a main hall with three bays and side chambers, offering a tranquil atmosphere. Parts of it have been damaged, but the original site remains.