The thousand-year-old wooden pagoda: a glimpse into the ultimate romance of ancient Chinese architecture.
Standing beneath the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, all fantasies of a "miracle" take shape. This 67.31-meter-tall Liao Dynasty pagoda, built without a single nail, is supported entirely by the interlocking joints of brackets and mortise and tenon joints. It has withstood thousands of years of wind and rain, and numerous earthquakes, remaining unshaken. Touching the mottled wood marks on the pagoda, one can almost hear the echo of ancient wisdom colliding with time.
I. Best Time to Visit
1. Season: April-May or September-October are preferred. These two periods offer mild weather, with average temperatures ranging from 15-25°C. Avoiding the scorching summer sun and freezing winter temperatures, visitors can enjoy the sight of flowers and plants blooming beneath the pagoda in spring, and the pagoda itself against the backdrop of yellowing leaves in autumn, creating exceptional photo opportunities.
2. Daily Time of Day: Recommended visits are from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM or from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The soft light in the morning is perfect for capturing panoramic views of the wooden pagoda, and with relatively few tourists, you can more easily observe the details of the brackets. As the sun sets, the wooden pagoda takes on a gentle, golden hue, creating a truly atmospheric atmosphere.
2. Must-Try Foods in the Neighborhood
- Yingxian Beef Kidney: A local specialty, fresh beef kidney is stir-fried with chili peppers and onions. It's crispy and tender, without any fishy smell, and has a spicy, flavorful texture. It's a must-try for experiencing the hearty flavors of the local cuisine. We recommend trying it at local favorites like Xiao Li Restaurant in the Old Town.
- Yingxian Liangfen: A perfect summer remedy. The jelly is chewy and topped with a special vinegar, chili oil, minced garlic, and cilantro for a sour and appetizing flavor. Pair it with a freshly baked "oil cake"—a delicious and filling meal, perfect for a hearty meal. Try it at street vendors or snack shops.
- Yumian Kuoluoluo: A classic Shanxi noodle dish, especially in Yingxian. The oat noodles are rolled into a honeycomb shape and steamed, then eaten with mutton broth, tomato sauce, or salad dressing. They have a chewy texture and a rich wheat flavor, making them a great choice for those who enjoy whole grains. You can order this dish at most local restaurants.
It's worth a visit and very cost-effective, with a 50% discount on admission for just 25 yuan.