Tianjingge Pavilion in Dali City
Chinese Name: 大理洱海天镜阁
Chinese Pinyin: Dali Erhai Tianjingge
English Name: Tianjing Pavilion in Dali City
Type: pavilion
Openning Hours: 7:30-18:30
Recommended Visiting Hours: 1-2 hours
Ticket: RMB 30
Location: Haidong Town, Dali City, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province
Tianjing Pavilion is situated on the eastern side of Erhai Lake, on Yuyan Mountain (玉案山). The mountain dramatically extends into the lake, flanked by water on three sides and featuring steep cliffs, making it a strategically important site with mountains surrounding the lake, creating a mirror-like surface.
Tianjing Pavilion, built during the Jin Dynasty (晋代), is a millennium-old structure that, along with Luoquan Temple (罗荃寺) and other attractions, serves as both a Buddhist holy site and a cultural landmark enhanced by the legend of “Wangfu Cloud” (望夫云), making it the best viewpoint for enjoying the beautiful scenery of Cangshan Mountain (苍山) and Erhai Lake.
Location
- Geographical Position: Dali Prefecture (大理州), Yunnan Province (云南省)
- Climate: Low-latitude plateau monsoon climate
- Famous Attractions: Tianjing Pavilion, Guanyin Pavilion (观音阁)
Introduction
Tianjing Pavilion stands prominently on Yuyan Mountain, where the terrain meets the waters of Erhai Lake, creating a stunning visual effect. The pavilion was originally built during the Ming Dynasty (明代) and has become one of the four famous pavilions around Erhai Lake. Although it was destroyed, the current Tianjing Pavilion has been rebuilt on the original site.
The pavilion is a four-story, eight-sided structure towering above the mountain’s peak, harmoniously complementing the renowned Luoquan Temple. Luoquan Temple features significant halls like the Mahavira Hall (大雄宝殿) and the Hall of Pilu (毗卢祖师殿).
Not far from the pavilion in the lake, there lies the “Stone Mule” (石骡子) from the Bai ethnic mythology “Wangfu Cloud.” According to legend, a hunter named Alang (阿龙) stole a precious robe from Master Luoquan to keep Princess Afeng (阿凤) warm. Unfortunately, he was struck down by Master Luoquan’s mat and transformed into the “Stone Mule.”
Every year during autumn and winter, floating clouds known as “Wangfu Cloud” appear atop Cangshan Mountain, stirring up waves in Erhai Lake, preventing boats from sailing. Locals refer to this phenomenon as “Wuduyun” (无渡云). Visitors often come to hear the stories of Luoquan Temple, the Stone Mule, and Wangfu Cloud, adding a unique charm to their experience.
Location Details
The Dali Tianjing Pavilion Scenic Area is located on the Luoquan Peninsula (罗荃半岛) on the eastern shore of Erhai Lake. It is 25 kilometers from Dali Railway Station (大理火车站) by land and 10 kilometers from Dali Port (大理港) by water. The ancient town of Dali is 3 kilometers away, both by land and water.
During the Nanzhao (南诏) and Dali (大理国) periods, this area was a significant Buddhist holy site, and the legendary tale of “Wangfu Cloud” originated here. The rocks directly south of the scenic area are known as the Stone Mule, where the Nanzhao king had it inscribed with “National Gate Here” (国门在此).
Within the scenic area, you can find Tianjing Pavilion, Guanyin Pavilion, Prince Pavilion (太子阁), Eight Immortals Building (八仙楼), Luoquan Temple, the ruins of Luoquan Tower (罗荃塔), inscriptions at Eryan (洱岩), and poetry by Guo Moruo (郭沫若), each spot carrying ancient legends.
Historical records indicate that Tianjing Pavilion and Guanyin Pavilion were established as a monastery in the fourth year of Tianfu during the Jin Dynasty, dating back over a thousand years.
The famous couplet by a renowned figure reads: “The majestic peaks rise out of the water; East is water, West is water. The tower appears to be in the sky; Above is heaven, below is heaven” (逸峰斜插水中东是水西是水，杰阁遥临天外上有天下有天).
Inside Guanyin Pavilion, the “Guanyin of Nanhai” (南(洱)海观音) is worshipped, drawing many visitors seeking blessings and fortune. During major festivals like Guanyin Day, Buddha Day, Sea Festival, Star Festival, and Torch Festival, the area becomes lively with crowds of worshippers and tourists.
The Eight Immortals Building features the Upper and Lower Eight Immortals and reflects the local cultural phenomenon of combining three religions, with villagers’ deities also enshrined in Luoquan Temple. Visitors often adhere to vegetarianism on the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month, while enjoying the local delicacies throughout the rest of the month.
Today, this area has become a famous attraction in Dali, offering the best views of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. On fortunate days, you may also witness the remarkable phenomena of Wangfu Cloud and Yudai Cloud (玉带云).
If you take a boat ride on Erhai Lake, you can appreciate the profound meaning of the ancient saying, “This water can hold an army of a hundred thousand” (此水可当兵十万), and learn why the Nanzhao king ordered “National Gate Here” to be inscribed. You may ponder why the Nanzhao Dali Kingdom lasted for over 600 years and why ancient figures chose this location for temple construction.
Related Legends
According to legend, the Nanzhao king had a beautiful daughter, Princess Afeng, who fell in love with hunter Alang. When the king forbade their union, they eloped to Cangshan. To protect Afeng from the cold, Alang, with divine help, flew to the eastern sea to steal Master Luoquan’s robe. However, he was caught and transformed into the Stone Mule by Luoquan’s spell. Devastated by the news, Afeng died and turned into a white cloud atop Yujufeng (玉局峰), gazing longingly at Alang.
Guanyin took pity on them, providing a wind bottle to help Afeng see Alang, but despite the years passing, the winds and waves continued to rage, preventing their reunion. This cloud formation signifies the natural wonder that occurs every winter and spring, symbolizing the deep love and yearning of youth, highlighting their resistance against feudal oppression.
Dining and Accommodation
The scenic area provides dining and accommodation facilities. Visitors are warmly welcomed and can enjoy authentic Bai ethnic customs, including the famous “Three Teas” (三道茶) — one bitter, two sweet, and a lingering aftertaste. Folk artists perform charming Bai traditional music, and guests can savor “Eight Bowls” (海八碗) made with Erhai fish, a delightful culinary experience described as tasting “earthly delights in a celestial paradise.”
How to Get There
To reach Tianjing Pavilion, you can fly to Dali Airport (大理机场) and take a taxi or local bus to the Dali Erhai Lake Scenic Area. From there, it’s a short hike to the pavilion.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather and stunning views.
- What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, and a camera to capture the scenic beauty.
- Respect the Environment: Follow local guidelines and maintain cleanliness in the area.
- Cultural Awareness: Be mindful of local customs, especially in sacred spaces.
- Accommodation: Consider staying in nearby guesthouses to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and scenery.
