Lu'an Twin Towers

Introducing Lu'an Twin Towers

Known as the "Twin Pagodas of Moqing," the two thousand-year-old pagodas in Lu'an are designated as key cultural relics under Anhui Provincial Protection. Despite centuries of adversity, they still stand tall in the city, earning worldwide admiration. Standing majestically, one in the north and one in the south, the two pagodas are the landmark and symbol of ancient Lu'an. When the elderly speak of the "Twin Pagodas," they fondly remark, "Lu'an is a land of ships, the ancient city a large ship, and the two pagodas, north and south, are like the ship's masts, rising with the tide. Although Lu'an lies close to the Laoqi River, it has never been flooded." Hence, they are known as the South and North Gate Awls.

The South Gate Awl is located in the Guanyin Temple on Huangda Street in Lu'an City, also known as the Guanyin Temple Pagoda; the North Gate Awl is located in the old Duobao Temple on the east side of Beiwai Street, also known as the Duobao Temple Pagoda.

The Duobao Temple Pagoda is a hexagonal, pavilion-style hollow tower constructed of large bricks. It currently stands at 21.6 meters tall, with seven levels remaining. The base is 4.4 meters wide and 3.9 meters high, with each level decreasing in width and height, forming a pyramidal shape. The seventh level (now the top) is 3.1 meters wide. The tower's facade faces west, and the base contains a chamber with a 3.3-meter-high arched door. The interior floor follows the hexagonal shape as it curves along the tower walls. Imitation wooden brackets support the stacked dome ceiling above each side and corner. The interior originally housed Buddhist shrines and statues, but these were destroyed during the Cultural Revolution. The exterior eaves (eaves) are constructed of stacked, flat bricks, supported by carved brick brackets. Between the tower's core (pile) and the outer walls lies a 50-80 cm wide brick staircase, which spirals up to the summit.

The Guanyin Temple Pagoda, crowned by a bronze gourd-shaped finial, collapsed during a stormy night during the Republic of China era, leading to the collapse of the ninth level. The nine-story pagoda, 27 meters high, features a hexagonal pavilion-style plan and solid brick and stone construction. The base is 3.9 meters wide and 4.3 meters high, and it was crowned by a bronze finial that collapsed in the 1940s. The pagoda faces south, with a 1.5-meter-high and 0.85-meter-wide arched gate at its base. Next to the gate is a stele commemorating the gate's repair in the eighth year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1580). The pagoda's facade is adorned with brick carvings of brackets, false doors, and stained glass windows. Each level is inlaid with a porcelain stele commemorating the donation and renovation during the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty. Above the third level, polychrome porcelain Buddha statues or designs are inlaid.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; two ancient towers stand tall, one in the north and one in the south, and are the symbol and emblem of the ancient Lu'an City. It is suitable for travel all year round.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Guanyin Temple Pagoda, Duobao Temple Pagoda;

It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours

Tickets

No entrance fee is required. The Guanyin Temple Pagoda is included in the 5 yuan Guanyin Temple ticket; the Duobao Temple Pagoda is free.

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Lu'an Twin Towers

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Lu'an Twin Towers are a modern landmark in Lu'an City, Anhui Province. The towers symbolize the city’s growth and modernization, serving both as a commercial center and a cultural monument. The design of the towers incorporates traditional elements while reflecting the city’s forward-looking vision.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Lu'an Twin Towers are located in the heart of Lu'an City, Anhui. They are easily accessible by taxi or local buses from various parts of the city. The nearest metro stations (if available) or walking routes are also convenient for visitors staying nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Lu'an Twin Towers are typically open during daylight hours, usually from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays, early mornings, or late afternoons to avoid peak tourist crowds and enjoy the view at sunset.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for the Lu'an Twin Towers varies depending on the specific areas you wish to access (e.g., observation deck). Tickets can be bought onsite at the ticket counter. It’s advisable to check for any online booking options, especially during peak seasons.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not usually required but is recommended during holidays or weekends to avoid long queues. Booking a few days in advance is sufficient if you plan to visit during busy periods.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Lu'an Twin Towers typically takes 1-2 hours, especially if you plan to explore both towers and enjoy the surrounding area. If you intend to visit nearby attractions as well, consider allocating more time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlights include the observation decks offering stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes. The architectural features of the towers, including their design and construction details, are also a major draw for visitors.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available for visitors, with Mandarin-speaking guides. English-speaking tours are limited but can be arranged in advance, especially for larger groups or special requests.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the observation decks of the towers. From these high vantage points, you can capture panoramic photos of the city skyline and nearby attractions. Sunset and evening views are particularly spectacular for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the first tower, taking in the views from the observation deck, then proceed to the second tower for more panoramic shots. You can also visit the nearby plaza and parks for a complete experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The Lu'an Twin Towers are well-lit at night, providing a beautiful view of the illuminated city. However, there are no specific light shows or night tours offered at the moment. A nighttime visit provides a different perspective of the city.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The towers can be crowded during weekends, public holidays, or special events. The least crowded times are typically during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic facilities like toilets, water fountains, and rest areas. You will find a few small shops selling souvenirs and snacks in the surrounding area. Larger shopping centers and restaurants are located nearby in the city.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Lu'an Twin Towers are accessible to most visitors, including the elderly and children. However, some areas, especially the higher observation decks, may be challenging for disabled visitors. It is recommended to check accessibility in advance if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are generally accepted at the ticket counters and in nearby shops. It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases in case there are places that don’t accept electronic payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

While there are no specific restaurants inside the twin towers, there are many restaurants and cafes located in the nearby shopping areas and commercial districts of Lu'an. You can find both local Anhui cuisine and international options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at several restaurants in the area, with some establishments offering halal dishes as well. It’s advisable to check with the restaurant or online menus in advance for specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near the Lu'an Twin Towers, including mid-range hotels and luxury accommodations. Some popular options include chain hotels, as well as local guesthouses offering affordable stays.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Lu'an Museum, City Park, and several historical sites within Lu'an City. A visit to the Twin Towers can be easily combined with a tour of these local landmarks for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are a few souvenir shops around the Lu'an Twin Towers, where you can find local crafts, miniatures of the towers, and traditional Anhui handicrafts such as tea sets, silk, and embroidered items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the towers, you can continue your trip by taking a taxi, bus, or even a local metro (if available) to other attractions or transportation hubs such as Lu'an Railway Station for onward travel.