Dadingge Pavillion and Murals in Baisha Old Town, Lijiang
Overview of Dadingge Pavilion
Dadingge Pavilion is located to the northeast of Dabaoji Palace (大宝积宫) and faces west. Originally comprising several courtyards, it now consists of a single courtyard, adorned with 17 murals covering an area of 69.96 square meters. The pavilion is distinctive for its embedded decorative stones, a unique feature of ancient architecture in Lijiang (丽江).
Key Information
- Chinese Name: 大定阁
- Location: Northeast of Dabaoji Palace (大宝积宫)
- Builder: Mu Zeng (木增)
- Construction Era: Ming Dynasty
Main Attractions
According to the “Lijiang Prefectural Gazetteer” (光绪《丽江府志》), Dadingge Pavilion was built by local chieftain Mu Zeng during the Ming Dynasty. The pavilion’s name is inscribed with the characters “大定,” showcasing vigorous calligraphy. The structure is surrounded by copper railings and embedded with decorative stones, demonstrating exquisite craftsmanship. After a collapse, it was restored in the 8th year of the Qianlong era (乾隆) and has retained its original character.
Architectural Features
Dadingge Pavilion has a single-eaved gable roof and a courtyard layout. The entrance features a gate leading to a charming courtyard, flanked by low corridors on either side. The surrounding mountains provide a stunning backdrop that complements the pavilion’s elegant design. In front of the pavilion stand elaborately carved stone pillars resembling ornamental columns.
The pavilion measures 6.86 meters in width, 5.25 meters in depth, and 5.2 meters in height. Each side contains three rooms, with partitioned sections created by decorative screens. The front serves as a corridor, the middle as a worship area, and the back as a place for Buddha statues. The lower eaves lack brackets, while the upper eaves showcase intricate carvings, including seven steps and three upward-curving brackets. The walls are adorned with decorative stones, a hallmark of Lijiang’s ancient architectural style.
Dadingge Murals (丽江大定阁壁画)
The Dadingge Murals are situated in Baisha Old Town, approximately 8 kilometers northwest of Lijiang City. This region serves as a crucial route connecting Yunnan (云南) with Sichuan (四川) and Tibet (西藏). The murals in Dadingge Pavilion are considered the most artistically valuable and extensive religious murals in Yunnan.
Constructed during the leadership of local chieftain Mu Zeng from the 26th year of the Wanli era (1598) to the 3rd year of the Tianqi era (1623), the pavilion underwent repairs during the Qianlong era (清乾隆年间). The murals were created during the same period as the pavilion, with a few later additions from the Qing Dynasty. Originally consisting of eighteen murals, only seven have survived in good condition, located on the east, south, and north walls of the main hall; the murals on the side halls have significantly deteriorated.
Artistic Features
The walls of the main hall depict various scenes, including the Happy Buddha (欢喜佛), characterized by flowing lines and concise brushwork, reflecting the typical Thangka style from the Tibetan Plateau, infused with rich folk elements. The murals in the north and south corridors portray the Water Moon Avalokiteshvara (水月观音) along with other Buddhist figures such as Manjushri (文殊), Samantabhadra (普贤), and Mahasthamaprapta (大势至), framed by serene water and cloud motifs, creating a harmonious landscape scene.
On the east wall of the main hall, the murals feature various deities from Tibetan Buddhism, including Vajrapani (胜乐金刚), Kalachakra (时轮金刚), and the Happy Vajra (喜金刚), all depicted embracing their wisdom partners. The north and south walls showcase Avalokiteshvara, Manjushri, Samantabhadra, and Mahasthamaprapta, each set in tranquil natural surroundings, forming exquisite individual scenes.
Notable Murals
- Avalokiteshvara: Seated gracefully at the edge of a pond, surrounded by blooming plum blossoms and peonies. The scene is illuminated by a bright moon and accompanied by celestial maidens scattering flowers.
- Other Figures: The murals display meticulous attention to detail, with figures portrayed dynamically amidst rich colors and expressions, influenced by Han Chinese artistic styles.
How to Get There
- By Bus: Local buses run frequently from Lijiang City to Baisha Old Town, taking about 20 minutes. Look for buses labeled for Baisha or nearby attractions.
- By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Lijiang, providing direct access to Baisha Old Town in approximately 20 minutes.
- By Car: If you prefer driving, follow the main road from Lijiang to Baisha, which is well-marked and easy to navigate.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal seasons are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
- What to Bring: A camera to capture the stunning murals, water for hydration, comfortable walking shoes, and a guidebook for deeper insights into the art and history.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore other cultural sites in Lijiang, such as the Old Town of Lijiang (丽江古城), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the scenic Black Dragon Pool (黑龙潭), known for its picturesque views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山).
- Respectful Conduct: As this site holds cultural significance, please respect local customs, avoid loud noises, and maintain a respectful demeanor.
