Liaoyuan Kuixing Tower

　　   by the Dongliao River. Its construction originated from ancient Chinese folk beliefs in Kuixing, the god of literature, leading to the building of the Kuixing Tower. It was later destroyed in wartime. In recent years, thanks to the care of the municipal Party committee, municipal government, Religious Affairs Bureau, Fushou Palace, and strong support from all sectors of society, the Kuixing Tower has been rebuilt and now stands tall on Longshou Mountain. It integrates religion, history, culture, art, and tourism, becoming yet another scenic highlight across the nation. The character “魁” (Kui) in Kuixing means “the foremost” or “the top,” hence representing the top scholar, or zhuangyuan, in ancient imperial examinations. Beautiful legends surround it, such as “Kuixing pointing at the dipper,” “winning the top honors in one try,” and “leaping over the dragon gate to become a person of great worth.”

　　   The Kuixing Tower is a pagoda-style structure and is the largest of its kind among Taoist towers nationwide. The tower has nine levels in total (including mezzanines), symbolizing the ultimate yang number of heaven and earth. The upper seven levels stand 24 meters high, while the lower two also contribute to that height. The tower features Liao Dynasty architectural style, combined with Qing Dynasty-style spiral decorative painting and various painting techniques. Its exterior railing is made of white marble, with bright red pillars. The entire structure boasts a grand, majestic, and spectacular presence, and can be regarded as the foremost among Taoist buildings, destined to endure through the ages. Liaoyuan Hongfa Culture and Art Co., Ltd. in Jilin Province will use the finest crystal materials and the latest scientific technologies to craft a series featuring the Kuixing Tower — the foremost Taoist pagoda.