Yueyang Pavilion

The Yueyang Pavilion is an ancient architectural treasure which is located on the shores of Dongting Lake in Yueyang City, Hunan Province. It is one of four famous Chinese pavilions. The other three are the Tengwang Pavilion in Hubei Province, the Yellow Crane Tower in Jiangxi Province and the Penglai Pavilion in Shandong Province.

The Yueyang Pavilion is a three storey, rectangular building which reaches 15 meters (about 49 feet) high and is constructed entirely from wood. Surprisingly, no nails or beams have been used in its construction. This is a rare feature in classical architecture. Pillars have been included in the construction to ensure the strength of the building. Four pillars made of 'Nanmu' wood support the entire pavilion; twelve pillars of catalpa wood support the eaves of the first storey and a further twelve pillars have been included to support the second storey. The roof is built using unusual curved lines which are similar to the shape of a helmet used by a knight of ancient times.

Seen from a distance, the Yueyang Pavilion seems like a giant bird which is in flight. The red building with its yellow glazed roof tiles is a splendid and colorful sight. Views here are spectacular. You will see the pavilion glowing in the sunshine together with the drifting clouds as reflections on the glimmering surface of the Dongting Lake. You will also see the white sails of passing boats contrasting with the blue sky. Couplets and carved screens are hung on the wall inside the building providing the visitors with the history of this pavilion.

The age of the pavilion is disputed. However, it is generally believed that it was built more than 1,700 years ago. During the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280) the rudimentary form of the building was that of a parade (ceremonial) pavilion. During the Western Jin (265-316) and the Northern and Southern Dynasties (386-589), it was used by the military with the name of 'Baling Tower'. It was not until the Tang Dynasty that it was renamed as the Yueyang Pavilion. The pavilion was damaged in the chaos of wars and was rebuilt in the Song Dynasty (960-1127). Since then, it has become a tourist attraction and a place of inspiration for both poets and writers. It was made very famous during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127) by the works of Fan Zhongyan who was a great politician and writer.
 

How to get to Yueyang Pavilion

Take bus 10, 15, 19, 21, 22, 31 or 50 to Yueyanglou Jingqu (Yueyang Pavilion Scanic Area).

Admission Fee: CNY 70
Free for chilfren under 1.3m (4.3 feet).
Opening Hours: May - Sep.: 7:00 - 18:30
Oct. - Apr.: 7:30 - 18:00
- Last updated on Jan. 21, 2019 -
Questions & Answers on Yueyang Pavilion
Asked by WORAWIT RITTITID from THAILAND | Jan. 19, 2019 21:57Reply
How to get to Yueyang Pavilion ?
My plan day trip by take high speed train from Changsha South Railway Station
to Yueyang East Railway Station.
So I would like to know how to get Yueyang Pavilion from Yueyang East by bus or public transport
and how long does it take and taxi fare how much?

Thanks you
Answers (1)
Answered by Auburn from CANADA | Jan. 21, 2019 19:49
00Reply


You can take public bus no.55 to Nanyuepo Bus Stop. Then walk north along North Dongting Road around 550 meters to find the scenic area.
Asked by Lisa from CHINA | Apr. 26, 2016 06:04Reply
I am thinking of visiting Yueyang in the north of Hunan.
Is there an underground subway there like other larger cities of it's size in Hunan (which I can access from the East Train Station)?
If so, are there any links to a recent train map? Also, is there a hotel and / or a subway stop near the old area where the the Tower is located?
Answers (1)
Answered by Vivian from USA | Apr. 27, 2016 02:24
20Reply


1. I am sorry that no subway is avaiable in the city nowadays.
2. Yes, there are many hotels near the old area. The Yunmeng Hotel at No. 121, Yunmeng Road is highly recommended. It is about 1.2 miles (2km) from the tower. The hotel provides nice service and comfortable environment. It costs CNY 200-400 per night in usual time. You may dial at 86-0730-8330888 to book a room.
Asked by Mary from PORTLAND, USA | Aug. 15, 2012 14:44Reply
Ho do I go to the Yueyang Pavilion from Changsha?
Answers (1)
Answered by Mike | Aug. 15, 2012 22:43
10Reply


At Changsha, you can take a train to Yueyang first. Upon your arrival at the Railway Station, you can take bus no. 15 to get there.
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