Wutaishan Wenbi Pagoda in Zhenyuan County, Puer
Introduction
Wutaishan Wenbi Pagoda (五台山文笔塔, Wǔtáishān Wénbǐ Tǎ) is located in Wenpan Village (文畔村, Wénpàn Cūn) on the west bank of the Mengtong River (勐通河, Méngtōng Hé), approximately 6.5 kilometers northwest of Anban Town (按板镇, Ànbǎn Zhèn) in Zhenyuan County (镇沅县, Zhènyuán Xiàn), Pu’er City (普洱市, Pǔ’ěr Shì), Yunnan Province (云南省, Yúnnán Shěng). The pagoda is a brick structure that stands 13 meters tall and is composed of three parts: the base, body, and top.
Built on the summit of Wutaishan (五台山, Wǔtáishān), the pagoda faces north and was constructed on October 20, 1878, during the Guangxu Era (光绪, Guāngxù) of the Qing Dynasty (清朝, Qīng Cháo) by Li Chunyang (李春阳, Lǐ Chūnyáng). Both Li Chunyang and his father served as deputy generals with the title of Flower Feather (花翎, Huālǐng) during the Qing Dynasty, as documented at the foot of Wutaishan.
Architectural Features
The Wenbi Pagoda is a square, six-tiered hollow structure with a small octagonal door on each side. It has a gradual narrowing design from bottom to top, with the eaves jutting out over the body of the tower. Each tier features an arched small door, supported internally by large, cross-braced wooden beams. The pagoda occupies an area of 100 square meters, showcasing significant historical value. Due to aging, the eaves and structure have suffered from weathering and erosion.
From the top of the pagoda, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view where the Mengtong River winds like a silver snake around Wutaishan, its clear waters sparkling in the sunlight.
Location and Accessibility
The Wenbi Pagoda is situated at the summit of Wutaishan, 16.5 kilometers from the Anban Town government seat, and can be reached via a scenic drive. The area is rich in pine and some broadleaf forests, with wildlife commonly seen nearby. To the east of the pagoda lies the Mengtong River, while mountain ranges stretch on either side.
Cultural Significance
Wenbi Pagoda is a historical structure cherished by the local community, where the villagers, primarily Yi (彝族, Yízú) and Han (汉族, Hànzú), place great importance on its preservation. Even the surrounding pine forests are protected from logging and resin collection.
Protection Status
Recognizing its historical and cultural importance, the Zhenyuan County People’s Government announced the Wenbi Pagoda as a county-level cultural relic protection unit on August 2, 1985.
How to Get There
To visit Wutaishan Wenbi Pagoda, travelers can take a taxi or drive from Zhenyuan County, heading towards Anban Town and following signs to Wenpan Village. The journey offers stunning views of the lush landscapes surrounding the pagoda.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and clear views.
- What to Bring: A camera to capture the beautiful scenery, comfortable shoes for climbing, and water for hydration.
- Local Etiquette: Be respectful of the local culture and traditions, especially around the pagoda.
- Nearby Attractions: Consider exploring other scenic spots in Zhenyuan County for a more comprehensive experience of the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
