Kaifeng | The Oldest Existing Building, Fan Pagoda.

The Fan Pagoda in Kaifeng was one of the most important stops on this trip. It is the oldest existing ground-level structure in Kaifeng, a landmark building, a unique example of Song Dynasty pagodas in Henan, and a representative work of Northern Song Buddhist art. It is now a national key cultural relic protection unit.

The character "Fan" (pronounced "po") in Fan Pagoda is used as a surname/ancient place name pronunciation. This place was originally the fief of Fan Bo during the Spring and Autumn Period and was called Fan Tai. The pagoda is named after the platform and is pronounced "po."

The pagoda was built in the seventh year of the Kaibao reign of the Northern Song Dynasty and is as famous as the Iron Pagoda. It was called "None of the hundred pagodas in Tokyo can match it." It was damaged (naturally) in the mid-Yuan Dynasty and repaired during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, with a six-story small pagoda added, forming a unique "large pagoda wearing a small pagoda" shape.

The most special feature of the Fan Pagoda is that it is inlaid with nearly 7,000 molded relief bricks, with 108 different shapes, each brick depicting a Buddha, which is very impressive. The carving lines are smooth, the faces are full, and the craftsmanship is exquisite. The inner wall of the tower is embedded with 178 pieces of Song Dynasty stone carvings. It's a pity that you can't climb the tower.

The core of the scenic spot is the Fan Pagoda. You can walk around the pagoda to see the brick carvings. It's quite overwhelming up close. It is highly recommended to visit when you come to Kaifeng. The Iron Pagoda in the north and the Fan Pagoda in the south are the only two "authentic" pagodas in Kaifeng.

The entrance fee is 15 yuan. Take bus No. 8 from the city to Yuwangtai. There is a downward passage at the intersection on the east side. Go through a demolition area to reach the scenic spot. The west gate of Yuwangtai Park is opposite the main gate, so you can visit it as well.

Post by vance_1021 | Mar 15, 2025