The Ying County Wooden Pagoda, also known as the Fogong Temple Shakyamuni Pagoda, is located in Ying County, Shanxi Province, China. It is the tallest and oldest wooden structure in the world.
The Ying County Wooden Pagoda, also known as the Fogong Temple Shakyamuni Pagoda, is located in Ying County, Shanxi Province, China. It is the tallest and oldest wooden structure in the world, built in 1056 AD, and has a history of 968 years. The pagoda reaches a height of 67.31 meters, with a base diameter of 30.27 meters, and is constructed without nails, celebrated for its unique dougong structure and exquisite craftsmanship, earning the title "Museum of Dougong." The Wooden Pagoda is one of the "Three Great Towers of the World" alongside the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy and the Eiffel Tower in France, and is a treasure of ancient Chinese architecture.
There are various transportation options to reach the Ying County Wooden Pagoda, primarily including:
Self-driving: It takes about 1.5 hours to drive from Datong, with navigation directed to the Ying County Wooden Pagoda scenic area.
Public transport:
The ticket price for the Ying County Wooden Pagoda is 50 yuan, with half-price student tickets available. It is recommended for visitors to reserve tickets in advance on the official app or WeChat public account, with a ticket price of 48 yuan. After the reservation, entry can be gained using an ID card or a QR code without needing to exchange for a paper ticket. The scenic area is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and it is advisable to purchase tickets before 5:30 PM.
Pagoda Structure: The Ying County Wooden Pagoda is the only pure wooden building in the world, featuring a complex internal structure with a design of "five exposed and nine hidden"; it appears as five stories while having nine actual levels, with a mysterious and solemn interior space.
Museum of Dougong: The wooden pagoda employs 54 different forms of dougong, showcasing the wisdom and skills of ancient craftsmen.
Buddha Statues and Murals: Inside the pagoda, a towering 11-meter Shakyamuni Buddha statue is enshrined, surrounded by rich murals and historical plaques that record the history and culture of the pagoda.
Leaning History: The pagoda has gradually tilted over the years due to historical construction errors, becoming a unique historical mark that attracts numerous visitors.
Pure Land Temple: After visiting the pagoda, a 500-meter walk will lead to the Pure Land Temple, where the coffered ceiling and stone lions are equally worth seeing.
Sun Protection and Comfort: Located in the north, Ying County experiences strong sunlight in summer; visitors are advised to take sun protection measures and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Visiting Time: It is recommended to spend 1-2 hours at the pagoda; those interested in ancient architecture may extend their stay.
Avoid Peak Times: It is preferable to visit on non-holidays or in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter touring experience.
Safety Precautions: Climbing inside the pagoda is not allowed; visitors can only tour the first level and must comply with scenic area regulations to protect the cultural relics.
The Ying County Wooden Pagoda is not only a masterpiece of architectural art but also a testament to history, worthy of being experienced by every visitor for its unique charm and rich cultural heritage.
