Jade Emperor Pavillion in Midu County, Dali
Overview
The Jade Emperor Pavilion (玉皇阁) is located in Yongzeng Village (永增村), Xinjie Town (新街镇), Midu County (弥渡县), Yunnan Province (云南省). Originally constructed in the tenth year of the Yongzheng reign (雍正十年, 1731 AD), it underwent significant expansion in the second year of the Guangxu reign (光绪二年, 1876 AD) with funds raised by twenty villages. The expansion was completed in the third year of Guangxu (光绪三年, 1877 AD), earning it the nickname “Twenty Village Jade Emperor Pavilion” (二十村玉皇阁).
Historical Significance
The Jade Emperor Pavilion is a significant cultural relic, recognized as a Provincial Cultural Heritage Site by Yunnan Province. Covering an area of 3,866 square meters, with a construction area of 1,400 square meters, it features a complex architectural layout typical of Qing Dynasty (清) buildings, characterized by a three-courtyard axial arrangement. The site is described as “majestic,” with “towering structures that lock in the feng shui of twenty villages and provide a view of the beautiful scenery of the Midu Basin (弥川).”
In 1983, it was designated as a cultural protection unit at the county level, and in 1998, it was recognized as a provincial cultural protection unit, making it one of the three provincial-level protected sites in Midu County.
Architectural Features
The Yongzeng Jade Emperor Pavilion is a well-preserved Taoist architectural complex, nestled against the mountains and facing the Midu Basin. The layout is symmetrical along a central axis, comprising three courtyards:
- First Courtyard: Features the mountain gate and theater—front hall with side halls to the north and south.
- Second Courtyard: Home to the Jade Emperor Pavilion (楼阁) along with additional side rooms.
- Third Courtyard: Consists of the main hall, ancestral hall, and two side yards housing the Dragon Shrine (龙祠).
The architectural design cleverly integrates the mountain gate and theater, creating a harmonious structure. The theater serves as a place of entertainment for the gods, creating a visual connection with the Jade Emperor Pavilion. The pavilion rises dramatically toward the sky, with a three-tiered roof transitioning from four to six corners, showcasing complex and exquisite structural design. The rear courtyard features an octagonal Dragon Pool (龙池), reflecting the Taoist Bagua (八卦) orientation. This entire ensemble represents a balance of yin and yang, forming the “eye” of the Taiji (太极).
As a historical structure, the Yongzeng Jade Emperor Pavilion embodies the social development and changes over hundreds of years, showcasing the exquisite architectural artistry of the Dali region and the wisdom of ancient craftsmen. It is regarded as a precious pearl in the cultural heritage of China.
Cultural Importance
The pavilion, also known as the Twenty Village Jade Emperor Pavilion, is composed of one main shrine, two side halls, one pavilion, six side rooms, three main halls, and includes the mountain gate and internal theater. Initially, only a Dragon Shrine and two side rooms were built. By the second year of Guangxu (光绪二年, 1876 AD), the complex was expanded through the collective funding of twenty villages and completed in 1877 (光绪三年). Despite suffering through several calamities, the structure has been preserved. It was recognized as a second batch cultural protection unit at the county level by the Midu County People’s Government in 1983, and as a fifth batch provincial cultural protection unit by the provincial government in 1998.
Location
- Address: Yongzeng Village, Xinjie Town, Midu County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China.
How to Get There
To visit the Jade Emperor Pavilion, you can travel from Dali City (大理市) to Midu County. The most convenient way is to take a bus or drive, which takes approximately 1 hour. Follow signs to Xinjie Town and then to Yongzeng Village.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable weather and clear views.
- Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions while visiting the site.
- Photography: The architecture and surrounding scenery provide excellent photo opportunities, so bring a camera.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking around the site.
- Local Cuisine: Try local dishes in nearby villages to enhance your cultural experience.
The Jade Emperor Pavilion is not only an architectural marvel but also a significant cultural heritage site, providing insight into the history and traditions of the region.
