Shuanglang Kuixing Pavilion

双廊魁星阁

Kuixing is a god in Han mythology who controls the rise and fall of literature. Shuanglang Kuixing Pavilion, located in the south of Shuanglang Village, Shuanglang Town, was built in the third year of the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty (1877 AD).
The three-story, three-bay, hipped-roof pavilion-style wooden structure has a total width of 9.75 meters and a total depth of 9.8 meters. It has 36 ground-floor columns, a main room width of 3.2 meters, and two secondary rooms are 2.4 meters wide.
The third-story ridge purlins bear the inscription "Huan Liang Day, the middle of the Qinghe month, the 24th year of the Republic of China (Yi Hai)." The main structure is constructed of coarse materials, and the brackets, plugs, and flower panels are elegantly and exquisitely carved. Most of the existing wooden structures are original to the renovation in 1935, preserving the overall architectural style of the Republican era.

Introduction

  • Attraction Location: Shuanglang Town, Dali, Yunnan, China (云南省大理市双廊镇)

  • History: Kuixing Pavilion is a historic structure dedicated to Kuixing, the Chinese god of literature and examinations. It has been a symbol of cultural aspiration for scholars in the region and a place where locals and visitors pray for success in studies and literary achievements.

  • Architecture: The pavilion features traditional Bai-style architecture with whitewashed walls, dark tiled roofs, carved wooden beams, and an elevated platform offering panoramic views. It includes a central altar dedicated to Kuixing and decorative motifs inspired by local Bai culture.

  • Cultural Value: The pavilion is culturally significant as a symbol of Bai people's reverence for education and scholarship. It is often associated with local festivals and ceremonial events, especially during exam periods in traditional times.

  • Other Information: Kuixing Pavilion provides excellent views over Erhai Lake and the surrounding mountains. It is commonly visited in combination with a stroll through Shuanglang Ancient Town, where local Bai culture and architecture are well-preserved.

Visiting Information

  • Opening Hours: 08:00 – 18:00

  • Ticket Price: 20 CNY

  • Best Photo Spots: Pavilion entrance with Erhai Lake in the background
    Viewing platform over Erhai Lake
    Decorative wooden carvings inside the pavilion

  • Time Reference: 30–60 minutes for a full visit including photography and enjoying the view

Where to Sleep (Nearby Hotels & Stays)

  • Luxury: Dali Lugu Lake Resort (大理泸沽湖度假酒店)
    Banyan Tree Shuanglang (双廊悦榕庄)
  • Mid-range: Shuanglang Boutique Inn (双廊精品客栈)
    Erhai View Guesthouse (洱海景观客栈)
  • Budget & Boutique: Shuanglang Youth Hostel (双廊青年旅舍)
    Lakeside Courtyard Inn (湖畔庭院客栈)

What & Where to Eat

  • Must-Try Dishes: Erhai Fish Hotpot (洱海鱼火锅)
    Bai-style Baba (白族粑粑)
    Dali Rice Noodles (大理米线)
  • Famous Spots: Lakeside Café (湖畔咖啡)
    Bai Folk Restaurant (白族民俗餐厅)
    Shuanglang Old Town Tea House (双廊古镇茶馆)

What Souvenirs to Buy

  • Bai embroidery, local teas, handcrafted wooden carvings, small Kuixing statues, stone carvings, traditional Bai jewelry.

Transportation

  • From Dali Old Town: ~25 minutes by taxi or e-bike
    From Dali Railway Station: ~30–40 minutes by taxi or bus
    Walking is convenient once inside Shuanglang Ancient Town; the pavilion is located on a hill accessible by stairs and footpaths.

Nearby Attractions

  • Shuanglang Ancient Town (双廊古镇) – 0 km, walking distance
    Erhai Lake (洱海) – ~0.5 km, accessible by walking along lakeside paths
    Shuanglang Harbor (双廊码头) – ~1 km, reachable on foot

Tips for Visitors

  • Wear comfortable shoes for climbing stairs to the pavilion.
    Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light and fewer crowds.
    Bring a camera for panoramic shots of Erhai Lake.
    Respect local customs, especially during any religious or ceremonial events at the pavilion.
    Avoid visiting on public holidays if you prefer quieter surroundings.

Recommended itineraries

  • Half-Day Shuanglang Exploration: Shuanglang Ancient Town → Kuixing Pavilion → Lakeside Café → Return to hotel
  • 1-Day Cultural Route: D1: Shuanglang Ancient Town → Kuixing Pavilion → Shuanglang Harbor → Bai Folk Restaurant → Overnight in Shuanglang Boutique Inn
  • 2-Day Dali & Shuanglang Tour: D1: Dali Old Town → Shuanglang Ancient Town → Kuixing Pavilion → Stay in Lakeside Courtyard Inn
    D2: Erhai Lake Bike Tour → Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇) → Return to Dali Old Town

User Reviews

By hyacinth! |

The double-corridor Kuixing Pavilion was built in the third year of the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty (1877) and rebuilt in 1935. It is a three-story, three-bay, hipped-roof pavilion-style wooden structure with a total width of 9.75 meters and a total depth of 9.8 meters. It has 36 ground-floor columns, a main room width of 3.2 meters, and two side rooms are 2.4 meters each.

By Zibing's Dream |

It has history and cultural heritage and is worth a visit.

By DrZou |

Halfway through Shuanglang, you will find this pavilion is quite unique.

By Do not eat plum wine plum |

Apart from being old, I don't think there's anything interesting.

By Got a nickname |

There are Kuixing Pavilions in many places, and you can visit them along the way.

By Wellhome |

Architecture students or enthusiasts will appreciate this three-story, three-bay, hipped-roofed pavilion-style wooden structure. While not particularly old, its form is a beautiful structure. Its calm proportions, ornate bracket system, and angled eaves showcase the beauty of Chinese wooden architecture. It's a delightful unexpected find amidst the chaotic town of Shuanglang.

By Time flies |

Just passing by, nothing to see. Optional.

By Ding Qimiao |

A place to see the sea, a small local monument. Come visit it!

By The passing years |

Yang Liping’s hometown is a beautiful and comfortable town with convenient transportation and rich natural and cultural landscapes.

By Nina |

It is a very representative folk culture and humanistic landscape of Dali. The building is not big, but very distinctive, representing the culture of respecting culture in the region.

By Polly |

This is not important. What is important is the shallow beach next to this scenic spot, where the water is very clear.

By Big Yellow Face |

Located south of Shuanglang Village in Shuanglang Town, Kuixing Pavilion in Shuanglang was built in 1877, the third year of the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty, and renovated in 1935. Kuixing Pavilion is a three-story, three-bay, hipped-roofed wooden structure with a total width of 9.75 meters and a depth of 9.8 meters. It features 36 floor-to-ceiling columns, a main hall width of 3.2 meters, and secondary halls of 2.4 meters each.

The third-story ridge purlins bear the inscription "Huan Liang Day, the middle of the Qinghe month, the 24th year of the Republic of China, Yi Hai Year." The main structure is constructed of coarse materials, and the brackets, plugs, and flower panels are elegantly and exquisitely carved. Most of the existing wooden structures are original to the 1935 renovation, preserving the overall architectural style of the Republican era.

By rim-8 |

Shuanglang is one of the few ancient sites. It is well protected and close to the sea.

By Qu Tingting |

It's just an attic, not very old. It's right on the beach, easy to walk to.

By My home is in Blue Star |

The door was closed and we couldn't go in, so we could only take pictures outside.

By Veinard |

There is nothing special about it, and the surrounding facilities are not very complete

By Yueer Cici |

Kuixing, the deity said in Chinese mythology, governs the rise and fall of literature. Shuanglang Kuixing Pavilion, located south of Shuanglang Village in Shuanglang Town, was built in 1877, the third year of the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty, and renovated in 1935. Kuixing Pavilion is a three-story, three-bay, hipped-roofed wooden structure with a total width of 9.75 meters and a depth of 9.8 meters. It features 36 floor-to-ceiling columns, a 3.2-meter-wide main hall, and 2.4-meter-wide secondary halls. The third-story ridge purlins bear the inscription "Huanliangdan, the first day of the first month of the Qinghe year, the 24th year of the Republic of China, the Yihai year." The main frame is constructed of coarse materials, while the brackets, brackets, and ceiling panels are elegantly and exquisitely carved. Most of the existing wooden structures are original to the 1935 renovation, preserving the overall architectural style of the Republican era.

By Long-necked deer |

Just walk by, pass by, pass by, and you can see it when you look up. You can go directly to Erhai Lake next to it, but the water on the shore is not very clean.

By Yingying |

It is an ancient pavilion with a unique roof, but you are not allowed to go inside.

By Mr. Yi Shu |

Kuixing Pavilion in Shuanglang, located south of Shuanglang Village in Shuanglang Town, was built in 1877, the third year of the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty, and renovated in 1935. Kuixing Pavilion is a three-story, three-bay, hipped-roofed wooden structure with a total width of 9.75 meters and a depth of 9.8 meters. It features 36 floor-to-ceiling columns, a main hall 3.2 meters wide, and secondary halls 2.4 meters each. The third-story ridge purlins bear the inscription "Huanliangdan, the first day of the first month of the Qinghe year, the 24th year of the Republic of China, the Yihai year." The main structure is constructed of coarse materials, while the brackets, brackets, and ceiling panels are elegantly and exquisitely carved. Most of the existing wooden structures are original to the 1935 renovation, preserving the overall architectural style of the Republican era.

By Elephant |

It was quite comfortable in the evening. When the sun set, it shone obliquely on the Erhai Lake in front of the attic, and the waves were sparkling. However, the attic is just an ordinary attic.

By Chen Maomao |

This is a cultural relic unit, a very tasteful building, located on Shuanglang Town Road, next to the Shuanglang government and police station, as well as a sea-viewing platform. I saw people taking photos and sketching here. However, there are some floating objects in the sea. You can go and read my travel notes.

By Yangyang |

Watch the scenery of Erhai Lake from the viewing platform next to Kuixing Pavilion in Shuanglang, and enjoy the breeze of Erhai Lake.

By Chen Xiaomu |

Shuanglang doesn't have many attractions, and it's a place for leisure and vacation. Students of Kuixing Pavilion may wish to come and worship.

By Internet Cafe |

When I went to Shuanglang, it was under construction and I didn’t see it.

By Wrangler |

There are no tourist attractions in Shuanglang, only inns. Going there is not for fun, but for relaxation.

By Swirling Water |

The ancient Kuixing Pavilion is impressive, with a small beach and boats in front. At night, you can gaze at the starry sky and even point out the Big Dipper. It's a great place to sit quietly, enjoying the sea breeze.

By A little bit of love |

On the street of Shuanglang Ancient Town, it feels a bit old, it should be an ancient building

By Stranger |

There is nothing special about it. I just passed by and took a look. The surrounding area is still under construction.

By Rising from the Fire |

Kuixing is a deity in Han Chinese mythology who controls the rise and fall of literature. Located south of Shuanglang Village in Shuanglang Town, Shuanglang Kuixing Pavilion was built in 1877, the third year of the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty, and renovated in 1935. Kuixing Pavilion is a three-story, three-bay, hipped-roofed wooden structure with a total width of 9.75 meters and a depth of 9.8 meters. It features 36 floor-to-ceiling columns, a 3.2-meter-wide main hall, and 2.4-meter-wide secondary halls. The third-story ridge purlins bear the inscription "Huanliangdan, the first day of the first month of the Qinghe year, the 24th year of the Republic of China, the Yihai year." The main frame is constructed of coarse materials, while the brackets, brackets, and ceiling panels are elegantly and exquisitely carved. Most of the existing wooden structures date back to the 1935 renovation, preserving the overall architectural style of the Republican era.

By vivimiya |

On the way back from the post office, I saw a very elegant ancient building.

By ben021005 |

Kuixing Pavilion is a place where local people can study in ancient times. It is three stories high and faces Erhai Lake. It has become a place for local cultural exhibition. It is exquisite and small, with a wooden structure. There is only one Kuixing Pavilion in the town. There is nothing to see. I just passed by.

By A wolf from the northwest |

It's a very ordinary attraction, very small, next to the ancient street.

By Plants want to be angels |

I only know that it is on our way to another place. I don’t know the exact address. If you want to find it, just let it go.

By People are as quiet as the moon |

Kuixing Pavilion is located in Shuanglang Town. It may be the only scenic spot in the town that can be called a historical site. You can go and have a look.

By Yang Yang Yang is a Leo |

Yang Liping's favorite place, many celebrities bought villas here

By Peter Pan's Fairy Tale |

Kuixing is a deity in Han Chinese mythology who controls the rise and fall of literature. Located south of Shuanglang Village in Shuanglang Town, Shuanglang Kuixing Pavilion was built in 1877, the third year of the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty, and renovated in 1935. Kuixing Pavilion is a three-story, three-bay, hipped-roofed wooden structure with a total width of 9.75 meters and a depth of 9.8 meters. It features 36 floor-to-ceiling columns, a 3.2-meter-wide main hall, and 2.4-meter-wide secondary halls. The third-story ridge purlins bear the inscription "Huanliangdan, the first day of the first month of the Qinghe year, the 24th year of the Republic of China, the Yihai year." The main frame is constructed of coarse materials, while the brackets, brackets, and ceiling panels are elegantly and exquisitely carved. Most of the existing wooden structures date back to the 1935 renovation, preserving the overall architectural style of the Republican era.

By One-dimensional |

Located in Shuanglang Town, it was built during the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty and later renovated during the Republic of China. The buildings retain a distinct Republican architectural style. Across from it is a market, where many vegetable vendors gather every morning. I really enjoy visiting Yunnan markets, where you'll find many unfamiliar species. One important thing to remember is to take good care of your bag, phone, and money at the market, as there are many pickpockets.

By Smallangela Dream |

Shuanglang's iconic building, the architectural style during the Republic of China period is very good

By Kent_hy |

Right on the main road of Shuanglang, there is a three-story building, which is very beautiful.

By Una and Cc |

I saw it by chance when I was leaving, I didn't feel anything...

By Xiaopang |

Kuixing Pavilion in Shuanglang is located next to the main street of Shuanglang Ancient Town. Its exterior walls are ochre-colored and primarily constructed of stone. It's generally closed to tourists, who can only take photos nearby. The scenery beside Kuixing Pavilion is quite pleasant, with Erhai Lake visible from behind. There's also a small pavilion for resting. The only drawback is that the pavilion lacks sun protection, making it quite hot in sunny weather. There's a vibrant bougainvillea plant growing by the Erhai Lake, making it a perfect spot for photos with the lake at your back. There's also a small fitness area next to Kuixing Pavilion, where nearby visitors can enjoy a post-dinner workout.

By A happy life |

Right on Shuanglang National Culture Street, in the square in front of the town government, the surrounding lake and mountain scenery sets off the traditional buildings.

By xyzgames |

There used to be old buildings in the village everywhere.

By Cat Girl |

A very beautiful building, on the edge of Erhai Lake, I like it just by looking at it

By Freshwater fish floating in the sea |

It is an old building located in Shuanglang Town, adjacent to Erhai Lake. Although the house is a bit old, it is not large and there is nothing to see inside, so you can only take pictures from the outside. The last time I went there, the walls were covered with calligraphy copybooks. It seems that it is now used to display the masterpieces of calligraphy enthusiasts!

By SMF |

Well-preserved ancient buildings, worth a visit! (By the way, because it was unattended, I went to the second floor... the dilapidated scene was obvious, and there were People's Daily from the 1970s on the wall, which was shocking)

By You don't |

Shuanglang is actually a small fishing village. Its most distinctive feature is its natural scenery. Find a hotel near Erhai Lake, stay there, bask in the sun, rent an electric car or bicycle, and stroll around the town. It is a good place to relax.

By heijielpy |

It is currently an office space for an association. The small square next to it is a good place to watch the sunset.

By treedxcy |

There is a small post office not far away, so I sent a postcard to my son.

By Three thousand and one |

The local poetry society is located in Shuanglang Town. There is a Guanhai Yayuan Inn next to it. The sea view room is 460 yuan, which is not worth staying in.

By 123 |

Kuixing Pavilion is located in Shuanglang Town. It was first built in the Qing Dynasty. The current one was rebuilt in the Republic of China. It looks good from the outside.

By release |

The view of Erhai Lake from here is better than from the inn. It is very big and open.

By NEO |

The Shuanglang Kuixing Pavilion was built during the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty and was later rebuilt during the Republic of China. This ancient building is located by the Erhai Lake. It is an independent building with no other special features around it.

By Milk Coconut Gourmet |

I saw it when I passed by. It was a very simple scenic spot. It happened to be raining that day and the sky was gray.

By smely |

You can stop here to watch the people coming and going and the scenery.

By Xiao A |

Kuixing Pavilion, close to the shore of Erhai Lake, is a three-story wooden tower. It was first built during the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty and was renovated during the Republic of China period to its current complete appearance.

By Mars User |

Shuanglang Kuixing Pavilion, located in the south of Shuanglang Village, Shuanglang Town, was built in the third year of Guangxu in the Qing Dynasty (1877 AD) and rebuilt in the 24th year of the Republic of China (1935 AD).

Kuixing Pavilion is a three-story, three-bay, hipped-roofed wooden structure with a total width of 9.75 meters and a depth of 9.8 meters. It features 36 floor-to-ceiling columns, a main hall width of 3.2 meters, and secondary halls of 2.4 meters each. The third-story ridge purlins bear the inscription "Huanliangdan, the first day of the middle month of the Qinghe year of the 24th year of the Republic of China, Yihai." The main structure is constructed of coarse materials, while the brackets, brackets, and ceiling panels are elegantly and exquisitely carved.

By Shuanglang Huanhaiyi Youth Hostel |

It's just a simple building, don't waste your time looking for it.

By Super Miaomiao |

Kuixing Pavilion is also next to Erhai Lake. It is a protected cultural relic. There is a very large and dense tree in front of it, which is nice.


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