Gongchen Tower

Introducing Gongchen Tower

The Gongchen Tower in Weishan Ancient City was originally the north gate tower of Menghua City Wall. It was the north gate tower of Menghua Prefecture (now Weishan Ancient City) in the Ming Dynasty. Now it has become the landmark building of Weishan Ancient City.

Gongchen Tower is a two-story, double-eaved, hip-and-gabled building, 25.76 meters wide, 15.7 meters deep, and 16 meters high. Built atop a 47.1-meter-long, 26.6-meter-wide, and 8.1-meter-high brick wall, the tower features a city gate on the lower level. Supported by 28 large, two-bay columns, the tower features four side wings and a perimeter veranda. The building is constructed of coarse materials, with columns at the four corners. The roof is relatively flat, with short corners, a slight rise, and a straight ridge, lending it a majestic and imposing appearance. Battlements adorn the north and south walls. Climbing to the top floor, one can gaze upon the cascading mountains of Wenhua to the east, the towering Wenbi Pagoda to the south, the jade-lined Guajiang River to the west, and the snow-capped Cangshan Mountains to the north. The entire Sichuan province, lit up by the lights of countless homes, is a panoramic view.

Under the south eaves of Gongchen Tower hangs a large plaque inscribed with "Kuixiong Liuzhao," while under the front eaves hangs a massive plaque inscribed with "Wanlizhantian." The calligraphy on both plaques is majestic, powerful, and seamlessly executed. Such a tall and majestic Ming Dynasty building, preserved intact to this day, is a rare sight in Yunnan and even nationwide. It has become a landmark of the historical and cultural city of Weishan. In 1993, it was designated a provincial-level cultural relic protection site in Yunnan Province.

Climate and best time to travel

The northern subtropical plateau monsoon climate; Gongchen Tower is now the landmark building of Weishan Ancient City and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open at 8:00, closing time at night is not fixed, depending on the number of tourists

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Most Popular FAQs for Gongchen Tower

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

Gongchen Tower is a historic landmark located in Dali, Yunnan. It was originally built during the Ming Dynasty and has played a key role in the city’s development as a watchtower and cultural center. The tower symbolizes the region's architectural heritage and offers insight into traditional Chinese construction methods and design.

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

Gongchen Tower is located in Dali’s city center. Visitors can reach the tower easily by taxi or local buses from the Dali Ancient Town. Walking is also a great option if you’re staying nearby, as the tower is in close proximity to other cultural landmarks.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Gongchen Tower is generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and to enjoy the cooler weather and better light for photography.

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

The entrance fee for Gongchen Tower is typically around 20-30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the tower, and they are usually available offline. It’s recommended to carry cash or use mobile payment apps such as WeChat Pay or Alipay for convenience.

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

Tickets for Gongchen Tower do not typically require advance booking, as the attraction is not heavily crowded. However, during peak tourist seasons, booking in advance can help avoid long lines. It’s recommended to book a day or two in advance during busy times.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Gongchen Tower typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows time to explore the tower, take in the views, and enjoy the surrounding area. Visitors can extend their visit by exploring nearby attractions or enjoying a leisurely walk in the park.

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

The must-see highlights at Gongchen Tower include the tower’s top-level observation platform, which offers stunning views of Dali, Erhai Lake, and the surrounding mountains. The interior of the tower is also worth exploring for its historic architecture and traditional wooden beams.

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

Guided tours are available at Gongchen Tower, and they are generally conducted in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it's advisable to check in advance. Audio guides in Mandarin may also be available at the entrance for self-guided tours.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the top of the tower, where visitors can capture sweeping views of Dali’s ancient town, the beautiful Erhai Lake, and the surrounding mountains. The tower itself also provides a unique backdrop for photos with its traditional Chinese architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering the base of the tower, where you can explore the lower floors and appreciate the historical significance of the building. Then, take the stairs to the observation platform for panoramic views of Dali. Afterward, spend some time in the surrounding park or nearby attractions.

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

Gongchen Tower does not offer night visits or light shows. The best time to visit is during the day when the views are clear and the weather is pleasant. The tower's historical significance is best appreciated during daylight hours.

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

Gongchen Tower can be a bit crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon on weekdays. Early spring and autumn are also good times for a more peaceful experience.

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

Basic facilities like toilets are available near the entrance. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. However, for meals, visitors may need to head to nearby restaurants in the city center.

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

Gongchen Tower has some uneven steps, especially leading up to the observation platform, so it may not be very accessible for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. However, children and those in good health will find it easy to explore.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted at Gongchen Tower, but mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely accepted, making it convenient for visitors. It’s still a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few cafes and small restaurants around Gongchen Tower offering local snacks and Yunnan cuisine. For a wider variety of dining options, visitors can head to Dali’s city center, where more upscale restaurants are available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some of the nearby restaurants, as many Yunnan dishes are plant-based. Halal food is not widely available in the area, but vegetarian and vegan options are common. For halal options, you may need to go to Dali city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and boutique hotels within walking distance of Gongchen Tower. For more luxury accommodations, visitors can head to Dali’s ancient town, which offers a variety of hotels, from budget to high-end options.

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

Nearby attractions include the Dali Ancient City, Erhai Lake, and the Three Pagodas of Dali. These sites are easily accessible and can be visited in a day trip, making them perfect additions to your visit to Gongchen Tower.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops around Gongchen Tower selling local handicrafts, including traditional Yunnan textiles, pottery, and jewelry. You can also find souvenirs related to Dali’s ethnic minorities.

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

After visiting Gongchen Tower, taxis or buses are the most convenient transportation options to continue your trip. Dali’s city center and other nearby attractions are easily accessible by public transport or private taxi.