Zhangzhou Weizhen Pavilion: The Beauty of a Century-Old Tower at Night

Zhangzhou Weizhen Pavilion (commonly known as Bagua Tower) is a landmark ancient building in Zhangzhou City, located on the left side of the bridgehead of Zhanbei Bridge in Xiangcheng District. It was originally built during the Ming Dynasty, with a history spanning over 400 years. Below is a detailed introduction to Weizhen Pavilion: 1. Historical Evolution Construction Period: Weizhen Pavilion was built during the sixth year of the Ming Longqing era (1572) or the sixth year of the Wanli era (1578), under the supervision of Zhangzhou Prefect Luo Qingxiao and designed by Assistant Prefect Luo Gongchen. Architectural Features: Initially constructed as a three-story pavilion, it adopted the Yin-Yang Bagua design. The roof was adorned with giant stones engraved with the Bagua symbols "Qian, Kun, Zhen, Gen, Kan, Dui, Xun, Li," hence the name "Bagua Tower." Historical Changes: - Destroyed in 1652 during the battles between Zheng Chenggong and Qing forces. - Rebuilt in 1737 during the Qianlong era. - Demolished during the Cultural Revolution in 1967 and completely removed in 1970 due to the construction of Zhanbei Bridge. - Reconstructed by the government in 1997 and completed in 1999, becoming a modern landmark of Zhangzhou. 2. Architectural and Scenic Features Modern Reconstruction Scale: - The main building stands approximately 52 meters tall (some sources say 57.88 meters) and covers an area of 9 acres. It remains a three-story Bagua-shaped pavilion, with a scale far exceeding that of previous eras. - The entrance features pillars made of Huashan jade and a 28-ton Nine-Dragon Bi stone lion. The plaque "Weizhen Pavilion" was inscribed by calligrapher Qi Gong. Interior Decorations: - Houses the "Zhangzhou Lantern Riddle Art Museum" (the first museum of Chinese riddle history), showcasing national treasures such as Duan inkstones and over 10,000 lantern riddle artifacts. - Exquisite carvings and paintings, including redwood sculptures, highlight traditional Minnan craftsmanship. Surrounding Scenery: - Forms a scenic axis with Zhishan Weizhen Pavilion, creating the "Weizhen Pavilion—Weizhen Pavilion" landscape line. - Features triangular and quadrangular pavilions, flower terraces, and corridor reliefs depicting Zhangzhou's local customs. 3. Visitor Information Opening Hours: - External scenery can be visited all day, but the interior of the pavilion is currently closed. Admission: Free Best Visiting Time: Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November) for pleasant weather. Transportation: - By car: Navigate to "No. 105, Xinhua South Road, Xiangcheng District, Zhangzhou City." - By bus: Take city buses to nearby stops at Zhanbei Bridge. 4. Cultural Significance Symbol of Imperial Examinations and Education: Ming-era Luo Gongchen inscribed a couplet, "Five famous mountains and two beautiful waters, the city’s scenery connects to the sea; true seven scholars and three top scorers, Zhangzhou’s literature excels in Fujian and Ou," reflecting Zhangzhou’s rich cultural heritage. Lantern Riddle Culture: The establishment of the Lantern Riddle Art Museum enhances the cultural significance of Weizhen Pavilion, serving as a window into Zhangzhou’s folk culture. Weizhen Pavilion integrates history, architecture, and culture, making it an essential site for understanding the ancient charm of Zhangzhou. If time permits, consider planning a visit to nearby attractions such as Zhishan Red Building and Zhangzhou Confucian Temple.