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Chaoyang Tower, formerly known as Yinghui Gate and also called East Gate Tower, is located at the eastern end of Lin'an Road in the southeastern part of Jianshui County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province. Built in 1389 (the 22nd year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty), it served as the eastern gate of Jianshui City. Its architectural style is similar to that of Tiananmen Gate in Beijing, earning it the nickname "Little Tiananmen."
The Chaoyang Tower Gate occupies 2,312 square meters, with the city wall stretching 77 meters from south to north and 26 meters wide from east to west. The gate is built on a high bank, taking advantage of the terrain. The tower rises above a brick-and-stone gate archway over two meters high. The tower is 24.5 meters high, 12.31 meters deep, and 26.8 meters wide, with five bays, three entrances, and a surrounding corridor. It boasts a triple-eaved hip roof.
Chaoyang Tower is supported by 48 massive wooden pillars arranged in six rows, each containing eight pillars. The two central rows are the thickest, reaching the third floor; the two outer rows are thinner, reaching only the second floor; and the two outermost rows are even smaller, supporting only the first floor's eaves. This structural method offers strong earthquake resistance, leading to praise from a poem titled "Climbing the East City Tower": "Its location is remote and desolate, and as far as the eye can see, it's close to Douniu. Among the several vassal states in the southeast, it stands tallest, both ancient and modern."
The subtropical plateau monsoon climate has no distinct seasons. Summers are cool and humid with lots of rain, while winters are warm. It is a good place to travel in all seasons.
Under the eaves of the top floor of Chaoyang Tower, a large plaque with the inscription "Heroic Southeast" written by Tu Rizhuo, a Qing Dynasty calligrapher from Shiping, hangs on the east side. "Heroic Southeast" is one of the four famous Qing Dynasty calligraphy styles in Yunnan, and the only one to have survived. Each character is nearly two meters tall. On the west side hangs a copy of the Tang Dynasty cursive calligraphy style "Flying Clouds and Flowing Clouds" by Zhang Xu, the master of cursive script.
A large Ming Dynasty bell hangs on the upper floor, over two meters tall and weighing 3,400 kilograms. Its sound can be heard several miles away. Copper bells hang from the eaves, and when the autumn breeze brings a refreshing coolness, the ringing of the bells echoes melodiously in the gentle breeze. In spring and summer, thousands of purple swallows nesting under the eaves fly around the building, their chirping and twittering a constant sound, creating a spectacular sight.
The tower is decorated with three layers of carved wooden screens, figures, and openwork. The "Jianshui Prefecture Chronicle" by Emperor Yongzheng states: "The East Tower (Chaoyang Tower) is a hundred feet high, reaching the sky and overlooking the city, with its bustling cityscape and boundless scenery. The rising sun casts its rays far into the distance, and the tower, viewed from afar, resembles a yellow crane or Yueyang, a truly magnificent sight in southern China." It earned the reputation of "dominantly dominating the 800-li southern border and being arguably the best tower in Yunnan."
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.
There is a fee of 20 yuan per person to go up the stairs
No charge if you don't go upstairs
08:00-21:30
Chaoyang Building is a prominent modern landmark in Red River Prefecture, symbolizing urban development in the region. It reflects local architectural trends and serves as a hub for business, tourism, and cultural activities.
The building is located in the central area of Red River, Yunnan. Visitors can reach it by taxi, local buses, or walking if staying nearby. There is no metro service in the immediate vicinity.
The building is generally accessible during daytime hours, approximately 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography and a quieter visit.
Most areas of Chaoyang Building are publicly accessible, and there is no general entrance fee. Specific observation decks or events may charge a fee, payable onsite.
Booking is generally not required unless visiting a special event or a paid observation area. For events, reserve tickets a few days in advance if possible.
1–2 hours are sufficient to explore the main areas, enjoy the views, and take photos.
Guided tours are not typically offered, as it is mainly a commercial and observation building. Audio guides are generally unavailable.
Start at the entrance, visit lower commercial floors, take the elevator to upper floors or observation areas, enjoy city views, then exit through any adjoining cafes or shops.
Night visits may be possible if the building is open in the evening, but there are no regular light shows or special tours.
The building is generally less crowded on weekdays and in the mornings. Weekends and local holidays may see more visitors, especially in commercial areas.
Facilities include public restrooms, cafes, restaurants, and retail shops within the building.
The building is mostly accessible, with elevators and ramps. Elderly and children can visit safely, and wheelchair access is available in most areas.
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted in shops and cafes. Cash may be used for small purchases.
Multiple cafes and restaurants are located inside and around Chaoyang Building, offering local Yunnan cuisine, snacks, and beverages.
Vegetarian options are commonly available. Vegan or halal options are limited and may require inquiry at specific restaurants.
Several hotels and guesthouses are located nearby, ranging from budget stays to mid-range accommodations, providing easy access to the building.
Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, postcards, and small decorative items reflecting Yunnan culture.
Taxi or private car is recommended for continuing to nearby attractions or traveling to other towns. Local buses may also connect to regional destinations.
