Jinhong Golden Pagoda in Gaozhuang, XishuangBanna
Jinghong Golden Pagoda, also known as the Myanmar Golden Pagoda (版纳大金塔寺), is located next to the island around the north of the Xuanwei Avenue in the Lujiang New District of Jinghong City. The height design of Jinghong Golden Pagoda is not useful, meaning that one river is connected to six countries. Among them, the four small towers are solid towers, and the big towers are the Bayeux Museum. There are two floors of space for use. There are four entrances from north to south, and the center of the tower is dedicated to the Buddha for the blessing.
Jinghong Golden Pagoda, also known as the Myanmar Golden Pagoda (版纳大金塔寺), is located next to the island around the north of the Xuanwei Avenue in the Lujiang New District of Jinghong City. The height design of Jinghong Golden Pagoda is not useful, meaning that one river is connected to six countries. Among them, the four small towers are solid towers, and the big towers are the Bayeux Museum. There are two floors of space for use. There are four entrances from north to south, and the center of the tower is dedicated to the Buddha for the blessing.
Overview: Jinghong Golden Pagoda, also known as the Myanmar Golden Pagoda, is a significant Buddhist site located in the Lujiang New District of Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna. This Thai-style pagoda stands as a symbol of cultural and religious ties between the Mekong region and neighboring Southeast Asian countries. The main pagoda, at 66.6 meters high, represents the connection between one river and six countries, surrounded by four smaller solid pagodas.
Historical and Cultural Significance:
- Built on the site of the ancient De Zhuang De Temple, dating back over 1300 years.
- Serves as the main Buddhist temple in Jinghong City, overseeing 205 other temples in the region.
- A sacred place for spreading Theravada Buddhist culture in China.
Architecture:
- The main pagoda features a Thai architectural style with four entrances from the north, south, east, and west.
- Contains a Bayeux Museum and two floors of space for various religious and cultural activities.
- Enshrined with Buddha relics at the top and a jade Buddha statue on the first floor, carved from a large stone from the Mekong River and presented by Thailand.
- In front of the temple, a statue of Wuba Guda, known as the “disaster-relieving and demon-suppressing Arhat,” is displayed.
Surrounding Pagodas:
- Four smaller solid pagodas represent scenic spots: Jingdong (Myanmar), Jinglai (Chiang Rai, Thailand), Jingmai (Chiang Mai, Thailand), and Jingtong (Luang Prabang, Laos).
Visitor’s Guide:
- Best Time to Visit: Due to intense sunlight around noon, it’s recommended to visit around 4 p.m. This allows for better worship and photography opportunities, followed by dinner at nearby restaurants and a visit to the Starlight Night Market.
- Admission: Free entry to the pagoda complex. The main hall requires a 30 yuan fee, which includes shoe covers and guided explanations.
- Temple Opening Hours: 8:00-11:30, 15:00-22:00
- Main Hall Opening Hours: 10:00-11:30, 15:30-18:00, 19:00-22:00
Visitor’s Notes:
- Dress appropriately: No tank tops, sleeveless shirts, or shorts and skirts above the knees.
- Photography of wedding dresses or personal portraits inside the temple is prohibited.
- Climbing or stepping on the pagoda for photography is not allowed.
- Consider bringing a shawl or sunscreen clothing for comfort during the visit.
Additional Tips:
- If you forget to bring a shawl, the temple staff or other visitors might offer one. Being prepared is always better!
- Allocate about an hour for exploring the pagoda and taking in its serene atmosphere.
Enjoy your exploration of the Jinghong Golden Pagoda, a magnificent cultural and religious symbol in Xishuangbanna! For more travel tips and guides, check out the blogger’s homepage.
