Yinxian Wooden Pagoda

Brief Introduction of  Yingxian Wooden Pagoda

Yingxian Wooden Pagoda  is the existing largest and oldest wooden pagoda structure in China, it’s also known as Sakyamuni Pagoda, for there are two tooth relics of Sakyamuni . Located in Fogong Temple of Yingxian County, Shanxi Province, it is 76km south of Datong City . The pagoda was built in 1056 , and during its nearly 1000 years’ history, the pagoda has survived several large earthquakes . It highly represents the ancient architecture art of China.

Why to visit Yingxian Wooden Pagoda

1.Get Amazed by its Unique Structure

As a masterpiece of Chinese timber construction, Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is octagonal in shape, and was built without the help of a single nail, screw, or bolt. Its unique construction employs fifty-four different kinds of bracket arms.

It is one of the most complex examples of roof construction in China, and, indeed, in the world. Certainly, it is the most complex example of roof construction of any building constructed during the Liao Dynasty.

2.Pay Homage to Various Buddha Statues

There are two doors in the south and north direction of the first storey, and from the second to fifth storey (the visible storeys), there are four doors in each of them. Wooden staircases connect every two storeys. The first storey holds an 11 meters high Sakyamuni statue, sitting under a delicate caisson ceiling. From second storey to fifth storey, there are also various Buddha statues and Bodhisattva statues.

How to Plan Your Visit

• Opening hours: 07: 00–19:00
• Location: in the village of Yingxian in Shanxi Province, about 75 kilometers (47 miles) south of Datong
• Recommended visiting time: 1 hour

Since it is a long drive from Datong City to Yingxian, we can offer private transport and an experienced tour guide for you to get the most from your trip.

If you do not want such a long drive, but really want to see the best pagodas in China, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice