Kaifeng Iron Pagoda
Henan Sheng
The Kaifeng Iron Pagoda, located in Henan Province, China, is a remarkable 13-story octagonal tower constructed entirely of glazed bricks, giving it a distinctive reddish-brown appearance resembling iron rust, hence its name. Built in 1049 during the Northern Song dynasty on the site of a previous wooden pagoda destroyed by lightning, this pagoda stands 55.88 meters tall and exemplifies ancient Chinese architectural ingenuity. Its structure mimics wooden construction but employs bricks, making it extraordinarily durable, having withstood multiple earthquakes and floods over centuries. The exterior is richly decorated with over fifty types of intricate glazed brick carvings depicting Buddhas, bodhisattvas, flying apsaras, qilins, musicians, lions, and floral motifs, showcasing the pinnacle of Song dynasty brick carving art. Although the original temple it belonged to no longer exists, the pagoda remains a treasured cultural relic and a symbol of Kaifeng's historical significance. Despite damage from wartime shelling, the Iron Pagoda stands resilient, attracting visitors fascinated by its artistic and architectural mastery.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and clearer views. Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. The pagoda is accessible by public transport, and guided tours can enrich the experience by explaining its architectural details and historical background. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Photography is allowed but respect for preservation rules is encouraged.
Interesting facts
- •The Iron Pagoda is the oldest and tallest glazed brick pagoda surviving in China.
- •Its reddish-brown glazed bricks give the appearance of iron rust, inspiring its name.
- •The pagoda has survived at least 38 earthquakes of magnitude 6 or higher and nine major floods of the Yellow River.
- •It features over 50 different types of brick carvings, including Buddhist figures and mythical creatures.
- •The original wooden pagoda it replaced was designed to lean and correct itself over time due to prevailing winds.
History
Originally, the site housed the Linggan Wooden Pagoda built in 982, which leaned due to wind but was intentionally designed to right itself over time.
This wooden pagoda was destroyed by lightning in 1044.
To prevent future fire damage, the current Iron Pagoda was constructed from glazed bricks between 1049 and 1050 under the Northern Song dynasty, named after the Kaibao Temple.
Over centuries, it survived numerous earthquakes and floods without structural damage.
During the Second Sino-Japanese War, it was shelled by Japanese forces who mistook it for a lookout tower, causing some damage, but the tower remained standing.
Restoration efforts were undertaken in 1956 to preserve this architectural masterpiece.
Place Guide
Base and Structure1049
The pagoda's octagonal base measures 4.16 meters on each side, with each tier gradually decreasing in size. The structure imitates wooden architecture but is built entirely of glazed bricks, contributing to its durability.
Glazed Brick Carvings1049
The exterior walls are adorned with intricate glazed brick carvings depicting Buddhas, bodhisattvas, flying apsaras, qilins, musicians, lions, and floral patterns. These carvings are considered masterpieces of Song dynasty brick art.
Roof and Eaves1049
The pagoda features yellow glazed tiles on the eaves decorated with dragon patterns, a symbol of imperial authority and protection in Chinese culture.