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At Shindeok Temple Pagoda, visitors can explore the ancient pagoda, admire its intricate architectural details, and appreciate the serene surroundings. It’s a great place to relax, meditate, and photograph the beautiful structure against the natural backdrop.
The Shende Temple Pagoda, built during the Song Dynasty, is located on a hillside below Bu Shouyuan, north of Yaozhou City in Tongchuan City, Shaanxi Province. A brick pagoda imitating a wooden pavilion, it stands 35 meters tall, with a base circumference of 25.04 meters and an inner diameter of 2.9 meters. It features eight sides and nine levels, with arched brackets and a densely packed eaves. The intricate carvings create a majestic and solemn architectural style, making it a highly ornamental site. During maintenance on September 24, 2004, numerous handwritten Buddhist scriptures were discovered, the earliest dating back to the Tang Dynasty. On May 25, 2006, it was designated as a key cultural relic under national protection in the sixth batch.
The pagoda's main entrance faces east, measuring two meters high and 1.26 meters wide. The bluestone lintel features a Buddha and two Bodhisattvas carved in line, while the north and south sides of the doorframes are respectively carved with a Heavenly King holding a bow and arrow and a sword. Due to blurred lines, the lines are difficult to discern. A false doorway, 1.26 meters wide and 0.69 meters deep, is located on the west side of the pagoda. Each side of the pagoda has three bays, with hidden brick columns and lintels between them. The hidden columns, lintels, and false windows are all painted earth-red. The second floor of the pagoda is the most complex and ingeniously laid out, serving as the primary gathering place for human activities. It features a square false doorway on the east and west sides, a scrolled doorway on the south and north sides, and square false windows with five horizontal panels on either side. Arched doorways are located on the south and north sides of the fourth floor, and on the east and west sides of the third and fifth floors. The eaves of the pagoda are two overhanging eaves, each with nine brackets, and the eaves are tapered with brick trusses. There are 72 bells hanging from each eaves, which make tinkling sounds when the wind blows. The inside of the tower is hollow and cylindrical, with no stairs.
The warm temperate continental monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
The Shende Temple Pagoda (Song Dynasty Pagoda) is the oldest structure in Yaozhou City. It is nestled between Wenwang and Wuwang Mountains to the north, Yetai Mountain to the west, and Baojian Mountain to the east, at the junction of the Qi and Ju Rivers. From a distance, Yaozhou City resembles a giant ship, with the Song Dynasty Pagoda serving as its mast. This pagoda is a landmark of the Buddhist temple.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
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Shindeok Temple Pagoda is a historic site that dates back centuries and is an important cultural landmark in Shaanxi. The pagoda is a symbol of Buddhist heritage and has been preserved as a religious site. It represents the region's architectural style and spiritual significance in ancient China.
The Shindeok Temple Pagoda is located in Tongchuan, Shaanxi Province. The best way to reach the pagoda is by taxi or private car from the city center, as there is no direct metro service to the site.
The Shindeok Temple Pagoda is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn seasons, when the weather is pleasant. Weekdays, especially early mornings or late afternoons, are less crowded, making it a peaceful time for exploration.
The entrance fee for the pagoda is usually free, but there might be charges for special tours or events. Tickets can be purchased at the site itself, and there is no online ticketing system for this location.
There is no need to book tickets in advance for general entry. However, if you are planning to visit during peak tourist seasons, it’s a good idea to check for availability or join a guided tour beforehand.
You can explore the Shindeok Temple Pagoda in about 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you wish to spend appreciating the architecture and the surrounding peaceful environment.
The must-see highlight is the ancient pagoda itself, with its beautiful carvings and historical significance. The surrounding temple grounds are also worth exploring for their tranquil atmosphere and scenic views.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides may be provided during the high tourist season. If you prefer an English-speaking guide, it’s advisable to check availability in advance.
The best photography spots are around the pagoda, with the structure as a backdrop against the surrounding landscape. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best natural lighting for photos.
Start by visiting the main pagoda, followed by a walk around the temple grounds. Take time to appreciate the historical details of the structure. Conclude your visit by relaxing in the surrounding gardens or sitting near the pagoda to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available. However, the pagoda is an excellent spot for a quiet evening visit if you prefer to avoid the daytime crowds.
The site is not typically very crowded, except on weekends and public holidays. The best times to visit for fewer crowds are weekday mornings or late afternoons.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. Food and drink are not widely available at the site, so it’s advisable to bring your own refreshments. There are no large shops within the temple grounds.
The temple grounds are generally accessible, but some parts of the site, especially around the pagoda, may involve stairs or uneven terrain. It’s recommended to check accessibility options before visiting, especially for disabled visitors.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. Credit cards are not typically accepted at the site, so it's best to rely on mobile payment or cash.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the Shindeok Temple Pagoda. However, nearby Tongchuan city offers several dining options ranging from local Chinese food to international cuisines.
Vegetarian food options are available in Tongchuan city. Halal food is less common but can be found in some restaurants that cater to Muslim travelers.
There are several hotels in Tongchuan city, ranging from budget to mid-range. For more luxurious stays, you can consider hotels in nearby Xi'an, which are also easily accessible.
Other nearby attractions include Mount Li, Tongchuan City Museum, and the Yuhua Palace Ruins. These can be combined for a day trip to explore more historical and natural sites in the region.
Souvenir shops near the site offer traditional crafts, calligraphy, and local tea. Handicrafts, small religious artifacts, and postcards are popular souvenirs.
The best transportation options after visiting are taxis or buses back to Tongchuan city center. From there, you can take high-speed trains or buses to other major cities like Xi'an.
