Golden Pillar Tower

Introducing Golden Pillar Tower

The Jinzhu Pagoda, located at the mouth of the Guxi River in Ma'anshan, Anhui Province, is a hexagonal, seven-story pagoda built in the early Ming Dynasty. At that time, Dangtu was frequently plagued by floods. Feng shui experts believed that the Guxi River's westward flow was unfavorable for the water-related geomancy, necessitating the construction of a pagoda to control the water's flow.

While mobilizing the people to build dikes and control floods, County Magistrate Zhang Jiazhen decided to build a pagoda. However, due to financial constraints, he remained unsuccessful for three years. In the 17th year of the Wanli reign, gold caches dating back to the reign of Emperor Lizong of the Song Dynasty were discovered in four alleys in the county seat. Jiazhen petitioned the prefect, Chen Bi, to cede half of the gold to build the pagoda.

Land purchased from the inhabitants of Xinchengwei served as the pagoda's foundation. The soil was piled up to form a mound, which was then named a mountain. The pagoda was initially named Tielin, but was later renamed Jinzhu Pagoda. Because of the gold's support and its ability to fill the gaps in the constellation, the pagoda has been said to have the meaning of " it is not gold, but it has gold support; it is not a pillar, but it has a pillar shape; it is not a mountain, but it has a mountain name . " Inside the Jinzhu Pagoda, there are stone steps that visitors can climb to the top of the pagoda and gaze out the windows.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Golden Pillar Tower

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

The Golden Pillar Tower is a modern landmark in Ma'anshan, Anhui, known for its towering structure and symbolic significance to the city. The tower is a popular symbol of local pride and offers spectacular views of the Yangtze River and the surrounding landscape.

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

The Golden Pillar Tower is located in Ma'anshan, Anhui, China. It can be reached by taxi or public transport from the city center or Ma'anshan Railway Station. The area is also accessible by walking from nearby hotels or attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Golden Pillar Tower is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler, and the light is perfect for photography.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 40-60 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance through local travel agencies or ticketing websites.

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

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak seasons or weekends to avoid long queues. You can book tickets a few days before your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Golden Pillar Tower typically takes 1 to 2 hours. If you plan to take photos or enjoy a leisurely stroll around the area, you might need around 2 to 3 hours.

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

The main highlight is the Golden Pillar Tower itself, with its unique architecture and panoramic views from the top. The surrounding park offers a peaceful environment to relax and explore.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are also offered in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be available on request, but it is recommended to check in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the observation deck of the Golden Pillar Tower, which offers stunning views of the city, the Yangtze River, and the surrounding mountains. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the base of the tower and its surroundings. Then, take the elevator or stairs up to the observation deck to enjoy the panoramic views. Afterward, take a stroll around the park and capture more photos of the area.

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

There are no specific light shows or night tours, but the Golden Pillar Tower is beautifully illuminated at night. The surrounding area is also peaceful and ideal for an evening visit to enjoy the lights and views.

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

The site can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekday mornings or late afternoons, especially during the off-peak seasons.

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

The Golden Pillar Tower has clean public toilets, water stations, and resting areas around the park. There are also small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs.

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

The Golden Pillar Tower is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators to the observation deck. However, some areas around the tower may have uneven terrain, which could be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the site, but mobile payments and credit cards are more commonly used and are recommended for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants and cafes near the Golden Pillar Tower, offering traditional Chinese dishes and snacks. You can also find larger dining options in Ma'anshan city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most local restaurants. Halal food options may be limited, but you can find some in Ma'anshan city or nearby areas with Muslim communities.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby hotels include the Crowne Plaza Ma'anshan, Jinjiang Inn, and Ma'anshan Hotel. These accommodations offer convenient access to the Golden Pillar Tower and surrounding attractions.

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

Other nearby attractions include the Yangtze River, the Ma'anshan Lingquan Mountain, and the Xuejia Temple. These can be easily combined in a day trip from the Golden Pillar Tower.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops around the Golden Pillar Tower selling local crafts such as traditional Chinese silk, tea sets, and miniature versions of the tower. These are popular souvenirs for tourists.

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

After visiting, you can take a taxi or use public transport to explore other attractions in Ma'anshan or head to nearby cities. Buses and taxis are available from the tower to local landmarks and transportation hubs.