Jinzhong Wenfeng Pagoda

Jinzhong Wenfeng Pagoda

Jinzhong Wenfeng Pagoda is a cultural tourism attraction.

Wenfeng Pagoda

Wenfeng Pagoda, located on Xun Mountain about one kilometer southeast of Yuci County, earned its name because it resembles a brush rest. Its construction began in the late years of the Kangxi Emperor’s reign, took three years, and was completed in the third year of the Yongzheng Emperor’s reign (1725). The pagoda is a cone-shaped brick-and-wood structure with 13 levels, standing about 38 meters tall and covering a ground area of 69.2 square meters. It is hollow inside, with the bottom level having a diameter of about 3 meters. The first and second levels of Wenfeng Pagoda feature brick staircases and corridors that allow visitors to climb up step by step; wooden ladders made of planks and iron nails are used for the levels above the third. Stone steps and winding paths lead all the way up, resembling a walk through the clouds. The exterior of the pagoda features imitation wood-carved brick eaves and bracket sets on each level. There are arched doorways on all four sides for viewing the scenery, adorned with exquisitely carved brick plaques featuring intricate patterns above the doorways. At the top of the pagoda sits a precious vase, while wind bells hang from the corners, creating a continuous tinkling sound in the breeze.

Yuci’s Wenfeng Pagoda is not only remarkable for its ingenious design, exquisite craftsmanship, and elegant shape, but also for its clever location and profound symbolism, which are truly breathtaking. The Xun Mountain where the pagoda stands is flanked by towering peaks to the east, overlooks the Yuchuan Valley to the west, faces the Brush Rest Mountain to the south, and borders the Yichuan River to the north. With the pagoda situated atop it, it looks like an ink brush tip piercing the sky, pointing at the stars. At sunrise, the pagoda’s shadow reflects in the waters of the Yichuan River, resembling a brush dipped in ink or a rainbow drinking from the pool. When viewed from the north looking south, the tip of Wenfeng Pagoda aligns perfectly with the three peaks of Brush Rest Mountain, creating a scene that looks as if a brush is resting on its stand. Taking in the surrounding landscape of Wenfeng Pagoda, you’ll find rolling mountains stretching as far as the eye can see above, and a silvery ribbon of clear-flowing water below. The towering pagoda itself adds grandeur and beauty to the splendid natural scenery.