Four Japanese Buddhist Pagodas (Sisengta) in Dali City
The Four Japanese Buddhist Pagodas, also known as Sisengta (四僧塔), Shisengta (诗僧塔), or Japanese Four Monks Pagoda, are located within the Tianlong Babu Film City (天龙八部影视城) in the southwest of Dali Ancient City (大理古城). This pagoda features a unique hammer-shaped design typical of Lama-style stone structures. The exterior is weathered and covered with patches of lime, showcasing its ancient heritage.
Historical Background
According to the records of Li Yuanyang (李元阳) in the Jiajing Era, the pagodas are situated above the Beijian (北涧) at Longquan Peak (龙泉峰). Two monks named Lu Guanggu (逯光古) and Dou Nan (斗南), both originally from Japan, were exiled to Dali during the late Yuan Dynasty and were known for their poetic and calligraphic talents. After their passing, the locals respected them and buried them at this site. The nearby Lüyuxi (绿玉溪), located between Yujufeng (玉局峰) and Longquan Peak, feeds into the stream known as Beijian.
The Four Japanese Pagodas were officially recognized as a provincial cultural heritage site by the Yunnan Provincial Government on January 7, 2012. Built during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty (公元1368-1398年), the pagodas date back over 700 years and serve as the joint burial site for four Japanese monks who achieved enlightenment in Dali.
Architectural Features
The pagodas are characterized by their unique spindle shape and are quite rare in the Dali region. Standing at a total height of 6 meters, the structure is constructed from natural stones. It consists of three main parts: the base (塔基), the body (塔身), and the top (塔刹). The body stands 2.9 meters tall, while the base is 2.4 meters high and has a diameter of 4 meters. An oval-shaped entrance is located on the west side, with a niche on the northern side housing a damaged inscription in Sanskrit.
The pagodas exhibit a weathered beauty, with their deep stone colors and lime layers giving them a timeworn appearance, making them a significant historical site.
Cultural Significance
In early 2005, Japanese actor Takakura Ken (高仓健) contributed funds for the restoration of the Four Japanese Pagodas during the filming of “Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles” (千里走单骑). This site symbolizes the integration of minority cultures and foreign influences in the border regions, serving as a historical witness to exchanges between China and the West.
Protection and Management
The preservation zone is defined as follows:
- East: 7 meters from the tomb
- South: 14 meters from the tomb
- West: 11 meters from the tomb
- North: 10 meters from the tomb
The construction control area adheres to the ancient city preservation plan.
Development History
During the late Yuan and early Ming dynasties, several Japanese monks settled in Yunnan. Notable figures included Jianjixian (鉴机先), Tianxiang (天祥), Dou Nan (斗南), Yanci Zong (演此宗), and Jingzhong Zhao (镜中照). However, the specific identities of the four monks buried at the Four Pagodas remain uncertain due to the passage of time and limited records.
In 1999, local cultural authorities conducted repairs on the pagodas. Further restoration occurred in 2005, thanks to donations from Zhang Yimou (张艺谋) and Takakura Ken during the filming of “Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles.”
Importance in Dali’s Cultural Landscape
Dali has been a focal point of cultural exchange since the Qin and Han dynasties, serving as a key junction on trade routes such as the Southern Silk Road and the Tea Horse Road. As Buddhism flourished, Dali became a renowned center for religious and cultural interactions, earning titles like “Miaoxiang Ancient Country” and “Buddha Capital.”
The presence of Japanese monks in Dali underscores the historical ties between China and Japan, with the Four Pagodas standing as a testament to Dali’s openness to foreign influences.
Educational Exchange
Today, the Dali University (大理大学) across from the Green Stream (绿溪) has hosted thousands of international students from over 30 countries, including India, Pakistan, Nepal, Australia, South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. In 2017, Dali University ranked among the top ten institutions nationwide for international undergraduate students, with over 1,000 currently enrolled.
Annual International Day
The university’s annual International Day attracts attention from South and Southeast Asian countries and has received recognition as an “Excellent Award for Campus Cultural Activities” by the Ministry of Education, representing a significant part of Yunnan’s efforts in implementing its strategic development initiatives.
How to Get There
To reach the Four Japanese Pagodas, you can take public transportation or drive. The pagodas are located within the Tianlong Babu Film City, about 1 kilometer north of the Hongsheng Temple Pagoda (弘圣寺塔).
Travel Tips
- Entrance Fee: Typically included in the ticket for Tianlong Babu Film City.
- Opening Hours: The site generally follows the operating hours of the film city.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather.
- Photography: Bring a camera for stunning photos, especially in the surrounding gardens.
- Cultural Respect: Be mindful of the site’s historical significance and follow any posted guidelines.
The Four Japanese Buddhist Pagodas not only provide a glimpse into Dali’s rich history but also serve as a poignant reminder of cultural exchanges that have shaped the region over centuries.
