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Wenchang Pavilion is located in the Taohuatan Scenic Area of Jing County, on the east bank of Taohuatan. It covers an area of over ten mu (approximately 10 mu), surrounded by a walled courtyard and within which lie flower paths, pine hills, bamboo forests, and a pond. Behind the pavilion lies a vast field, and from the pavilion, one can take in panoramic views of the distant mountains and nearby waters.
A horizontal plaque reading " Prosperous Civilization " hangs on the front of the ground floor of Wenchang Pavilion . Above the screen on the second floor are the characters "Wen Guang She Dou" (literary light shooting the bucket). On the third floor, a vertical plaque reading " Together ascend the cloud ladder " is displayed, along with a statue of Wenchang Bodhisattva. A plaque reading " Soaring straight into the sky " hangs above the niche . These plaques commemorate the glory and honor of the Zhai clan's past.
According to Qing Dynasty regulations, a Wenchang Pavilion could only be built after a family had produced twenty successful candidates. The Shuidong Zhai clan, a prominent family in southern Anhui, produced twenty-three successful candidates in the early Qing dynasty, earning Emperor Qianlong's approval to build the Wenchang Pavilion. The pavilion's base is ten feet high, and its three stories total a height of seventy feet, three feet, and five inches; its circumference is fourteen feet, four feet. The pavilion's octagonal floor plan features wind chimes at each of its three corners: the top one an iron bell, the lower two copper bells. The melodious chimes, echoing from a gentle breeze, can be heard from ten miles away. The three-story roof gradually steepens, with the eight corners rising toward the sky. The tiles at the corners are twisted 90 degrees, creating an elegant and unique design rarely seen in southern Anhui.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour
7:00-17:00
Included in Taohuatan Scenic Area, valid for Taohuatan Scenic Area tickets
Wenchang Pavilion in Jing County is a historic structure that dates back to the Qing Dynasty. The pavilion has been a symbol of the region's rich cultural and intellectual heritage, particularly as a place dedicated to learning and the arts. It has long been a gathering place for scholars and locals to enjoy the view and reflect on the natural beauty of the area.
Wenchang Pavilion is located in Jing County, Xuancheng, Anhui Province. It can be accessed by taxi from the city center of Xuancheng or by bus. Walking from nearby areas is also possible for those staying close to the pavilion.
The pavilion is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or weekdays, as weekends tend to be more crowded.
The entrance fee to Wenchang Pavilion is relatively low. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it is advisable to check if there are any online booking options available during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it may be a good idea during national holidays or peak tourist seasons. Tickets can typically be bought on the day of your visit.
It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the pavilion and its surroundings, including a walk through the gardens and viewing the historical exhibits.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be provided, but availability in languages other than Mandarin is limited.
The best photography spots are from the top of the pavilion, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. The pavilion’s unique architecture also offers great photo opportunities.
Start by exploring the pavilion and the surrounding gardens, then climb to the upper levels for the best views. Finish by walking around the perimeter to fully appreciate the structure’s design and surrounding scenery.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not offered at Wenchang Pavilion. However, special tours or events may occur during major holidays or festivals.
The pavilion can become crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The best times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the early mornings.
The pavilion has basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are no food shops directly at the pavilion, but nearby areas offer dining options.
The pavilion is accessible to elderly and children, with paved paths and rest areas. However, accessibility for disabled visitors may be limited in some areas.
Both cash and mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted at the pavilion. It is advisable to carry some cash, though mobile payments are widely used.
There are several local restaurants near the pavilion offering traditional Anhui cuisine. A few cafes can also be found in the area for a relaxing break.
Vegetarian options are widely available in local restaurants. Halal food options are limited but may be found in larger cities like Xuancheng.
There are a few budget and mid-range hotels in the city center of Xuancheng, which is a short taxi ride away from the pavilion.
Souvenir shops near the pavilion offer local handicrafts, including silk items, tea, and traditional Chinese arts and crafts.
Taxis are the most convenient way to continue your journey. Xuancheng Railway Station is easily accessible for those traveling by train, and buses are also available for other destinations.
