Jiutian Pavillion in Kaiyuan City, Honghe
Overview
The Jiutian Pavilion (Jiǔtiān Gé, 九天阁) is located in the urban area of Kaiyuan City (Kāiyuán Shì, 开远市), Yunnan Province (Yúnnán Shěng, 云南省). Originally part of the Amizhou Wenchang Palace (Āmí Wénchāng Gōng, 阿迷文昌宫), it was formerly known as the Kuixing Pavilion (Kuíxīng Gé, 魁星阁). Once the tallest structure in Amizhou (Āmí Zhōu, 阿迷州), climbing to its top offers a panoramic view of the entire basin.
The pavilion was established in the sixth year of the Yongzheng Emperor’s reign (1728) during the Qing Dynasty (Qīng Cháo, 清朝), underwent renovations during the Guangxu period (Guāngxù Niánjiān, 光绪年间), and was renamed Jiutian Pavilion (Jiǔtiān Gé, 九天阁) in the early Republic of China (Mín Guó, 民国) period. In 1983, it was designated as a cultural relic protection unit of Kaiyuan City (Kāiyuán Shì, 开远市).
Geographic Location
- Location: Kaiyuan City (Kāiyuán Shì, 开远市), Yunnan Province (Yúnnán Shěng, 云南省)
- Climate Conditions: Subtropical plateau monsoon climate (Yàrèdài gāoyuán jìfēng qìhòu, 亚热带高原季风气候)
Historical Significance
The Jiutian Pavilion (Jiǔtiān Gé, 九天阁) has historical significance as it reflects the architectural styles and cultural heritage of its time. It stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and design of the Qing Dynasty (Qīng Cháo, 清朝) and has become a symbol of local pride.
Climate Characteristics
Honghe (Hónghē, 红河) is situated in the southern Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau (Yúnnán Guìzhōu Gāoyuán, 云南贵州高原), featuring diverse landforms such as limestone mountains, plateaus, valleys, basins, and hills. The region experiences a large elevation difference and complex topography, characterized by ample rainfall, abundant sunlight, minimal annual temperature variation, and a humid climate influenced by monsoons.
Because the Tropic of Cancer (Zhōnggāngxiàn, 北回归线) crosses the region, temperatures and humidity levels increase from north to south, exhibiting a humid and hot climate. The rainy season in Honghe (Hónghē, 红河) typically spans from May to October, while frost periods occur from late November to the following January and February.
Therefore, it is best to visit Honghe (Hónghē, 红河) from March to April and September to November, avoiding the hot and rainy summer and autumn months.
How to Get There
- Location: Jiutian Pavilion (Jiǔtiān Gé, 九天阁), Kaiyuan City (Kāiyuán Shì, 开远市), Honghe (Hónghē, 红河).
- Transportation:
- The pavilion is accessible by local buses or taxis within Kaiyuan City (Kāiyuán Shì, 开远市).
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: March to April and September to November are ideal for pleasant weather.
- Entry Fee: Check for any fees or permits required for access.
- Duration: Plan for a visit of 1-2 hours to enjoy the scenery and explore the pavilion.
- Preparation: Bring water and snacks, as nearby facilities may be limited.
- Photography: Capture the beautiful views from the top, especially during sunrise or sunset for stunning lighting.
