Twin Pagoda

Introduction to Twin Pagoda Temple (永祚寺双塔)

The Twin Pagoda in Yangzuo Temple are designated as the symbol of Taiyuan. Each of the two octagonal pagodas has 13 stories, 54 meters in height. Built with black bricks, the pagodas are simple, unsophisticated and beautiful shaped; hence they are famous tourist attractions of Taiyuan.

The Twin Pogoda Temple (Shuang Ta Si), also known by the name 'Yongzuo Temple' (Yong Zuo Si), is located in the southeast of Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province. There are two 53-meter-tall pagodas standing in the temple, hence the name 'Twin Pagoda Temple'. History records reveal that the temple and two pagodas were built under the Emperor Wanli's order in 1608 during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).

Each of the pagodas has 13 stories and is made entirely of bricks and stone. The exterior was sculptured in the shape of an octagon and decorated with the exquisite flying eaves. An internal staircase was added so that visitors can climb to the top of the pagoda and gaze far afield.

All of the buildings in this temple were constructed with bricks. The brick-carved posts and brackets of the temple perfectly demonstrate the features of ancient Chinese architecture. It's worth mentioning that a rare collection of steles have been stored in the temple that contain the handwriting of famous ancient Chinese calligraphers from various dynasties such as Wang Xizhi (303-361), Yan Zhenqing (709-785), Liu Zongyuan (773-819), and Su Dongpo (1037-1101).

The best time to visit the temple is in spring (April and May) when all the peony and cloves are in full bloom. These beautiful flowers are said to have been planted during the Ming Dynasty and their beauty indeed makes the old temple more elegant.

Location

Haozhuang Village, Haozhuang Country, Yingze District, Taiyuan

Main Sights

Bell Tower, Dabei Hall

Travel Information

Opening Hours: 8:00AM - 5:00PM

Admission: 30 Yuan

Transportation 

Travel Tips 

1. Try to avoid visiting Chunyang Palace during Golden Week and summer holidays where the crowds and number of visitors will be substantially higher than usual.