Hainan Trip—Meilang Twin Pagodas and Xianshou Nunnery

Meiting Meilang Sister Pagodas Chengmai · Hainan
Located in Meilang Village, Jinjiang Town, Chengmai County, Hainan Province, the Meilang Twin Pagodas, formerly known as "Mailang Erta" and "Meilang Erta," commonly known as the "Sister Pagodas," are the two stone Buddhist pagodas with the earliest construction date and distinct architectural features among the existing ancient pagodas in Hainan. Dating back nearly a thousand years, the Meilang Twin Pagodas are not only one of the treasures of ancient Hainan architecture but also an epitome of the integration of Buddhism and Chinese culture.

Meilang Village is simple and quiet, with dense betel nut and coconut trees at the entrance. Despite the scorching sun, stepping into the village brings a refreshing coolness. The Meilang Twin Pagodas are an important part of the "Jirui Nunnery" in Meilang Village. The ruins of this nunnery are located in the southeast of the village, where Chen Nv Shanchang (the person commemorated by the sister pagoda) became a nun and practiced Buddhism. Interestingly, legend has it that after Chen Nv ascended to immortality, the place was renamed "Xianshou Nunnery," meaning "Nunnery of Immortal Longevity." Xianshou Nunnery faces northeast to southwest. The original buildings have been destroyed, and only the foundations of the nunnery and the remnants of the main hall remain. The site is small, with stone stele bases and other architectural remnants scattered around. The remaining stone structures may date back to the Song to Qing Dynasties.

The solitary twin pagodas and the ruins of Xianshou Nunnery seem to hold many unsolved mysteries. To gain a deeper understanding of the history of the Meilang Twin Pagodas, you can visit the Meilang Twin Pagodas Museum in the village, where you might find clues and insights.

Post by Luna~Carter | Mar 16, 2025