Chanfang Temple Pagoda

Chanfang Temple Pagoda

Chanfang Temple Pagoda is a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

Chanfang Temple Pagoda

Chanfang Temple Pagoda (6th Batch National Heritage Site)

Era: Liao Dynasty

Location: On the summit of Zhangren Peak, 30 kilometers southwest of Datong City

The brick pagoda is part of Chanfang Temple, hence the name Chanfang Temple Brick Pagoda. The Datong Prefecture Records state: “Chanfang Mountain lies sixty li northeast of the prefectural seat, is seven li high, spans forty li, connects to the Mashi Ridge of Huairen in the west, and links to the Yuexue Ridge of the Seven Peaks Mountain in the north. A solitary peak, known locally as Zhangren Peak, hosts a stone pagoda temple built during the Liao Dynasty.”

The pagoda has six sides and seven levels, standing approximately 15 meters tall with a solid brick-and-stone structure. Its base is a Sumeru pedestal built from neatly cut rectangular stone blocks without the use of mortar but instead secured with wooden dowels. The top is carved with lotus petals, above which is the waist eave adorned with reliefs of lotuses, peonies, and cherubs. Each of the six sides features a boldly sculpted fierce guardian figure. The upper lintel includes carvings of one Buddha and two Bodhisattvas on each face, along with two layers of lotus-bead waist eaves.

Above the base is the brick body of the pagoda designed in imitation of wooden architecture. The pagoda’s bracket sets, arches, and other structural elements are crafted in wood-like form. The second level narrows at the corners where the stepped angles either angle inward or outward. The upper sections share similar designs, gradually tapering toward the top. The pagoda showcases exquisite carving artistry, with minimal variation in design details among the levels. Extended Reading:

· 6th Batch National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units