Chenghuang Pavilion（城隍庙 ） Travel Guide
Nov 11, 2024
by orient china travel
Chenghuang Pavilion in Hangzhou: A Glorious Showcase of History and Culture
The Chenghuang Pavilion in Hangzhou is a remarkable attraction that offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and breathtaking views.
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Location and Surroundings
Located on Wu Hill in Shangcheng District of Hangzhou, the pavilion is in a prime position that provides visitors with excellent vistas. Wu Hill is also known as Chenghuang Hill, adding to the significance of the pavilion's location. It is conveniently accessible by taking buses such as No. 8, 35, 38, 40, or 807 to Wushan Square Station.
Located on Wu Hill in Shangcheng District of Hangzhou, the pavilion is in a prime position that provides visitors with excellent vistas. Wu Hill is also known as Chenghuang Hill, adding to the significance of the pavilion's location. It is conveniently accessible by taking buses such as No. 8, 35, 38, 40, or 807 to Wushan Square Station.
Historical Background and Significance
The concept of a Chenghuang (City God) is deeply rooted in Chinese religious and cultural beliefs. In ancient times, people believed that the City God was responsible for safeguarding the city and its inhabitants. Many famous or respected officials who had made great contributions to the local people were often deified and served as City Gods after their deaths. In Hangzhou, the main deity enshrined in the Chenghuang Pavilion is Zhou Xin, who was a Zhejiang Provincial Judge during the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty (1403 - 1424). His story is a testament to his integrity and dedication to the people.
The concept of a Chenghuang (City God) is deeply rooted in Chinese religious and cultural beliefs. In ancient times, people believed that the City God was responsible for safeguarding the city and its inhabitants. Many famous or respected officials who had made great contributions to the local people were often deified and served as City Gods after their deaths. In Hangzhou, the main deity enshrined in the Chenghuang Pavilion is Zhou Xin, who was a Zhejiang Provincial Judge during the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty (1403 - 1424). His story is a testament to his integrity and dedication to the people.
Architectural Features
The Chenghuang Pavilion is a magnificent seven-story antique-style pavilion that was built in the 1990s. It combines the architectural styles of the Yuan and Ming Dynasties, exuding a sense of luxury and grandeur. The main top of the pavilion is in the shape of a gourd tip, and the four sub-tops are sculptures of phoenixes, making the whole pavilion look like a group of soaring phoenixes, as if it were a sacred building in a fairyland. The second floor features a couplet written by Xu Wei, a great poet, littérateur, calligraphist, painter, and playwright of the Ming Dynasty, which adds to the cultural charm of the pavilion.
The Chenghuang Pavilion is a magnificent seven-story antique-style pavilion that was built in the 1990s. It combines the architectural styles of the Yuan and Ming Dynasties, exuding a sense of luxury and grandeur. The main top of the pavilion is in the shape of a gourd tip, and the four sub-tops are sculptures of phoenixes, making the whole pavilion look like a group of soaring phoenixes, as if it were a sacred building in a fairyland. The second floor features a couplet written by Xu Wei, a great poet, littérateur, calligraphist, painter, and playwright of the Ming Dynasty, which adds to the cultural charm of the pavilion.
Scenic Views
From the Chenghuang Pavilion, one can enjoy a panoramic view of Hangzhou. Looking north, the West Lake is like a mirror, with gentle boats floating on it; looking east, there are rows of high-rise buildings in the urban area; looking south, the Nan Tang River is full of waves and sailing boats; looking west, the mountains are shrouded in mist and clouds, creating a magnificent and beautiful landscape5.
From the Chenghuang Pavilion, one can enjoy a panoramic view of Hangzhou. Looking north, the West Lake is like a mirror, with gentle boats floating on it; looking east, there are rows of high-rise buildings in the urban area; looking south, the Nan Tang River is full of waves and sailing boats; looking west, the mountains are shrouded in mist and clouds, creating a magnificent and beautiful landscape5.
Cultural Heritage and Legends
Inside the pavilion, there are sculptures and paintings depicting the life and deeds of Zhou Xin, showing his unwavering integrity, such as his handling of difficult cases, punishing corrupt officials, and sympathizing with the people. These artworks not only showcase the respect and admiration that the people have for him but also preserve and inherit the precious historical and cultural heritage34.
Inside the pavilion, there are sculptures and paintings depicting the life and deeds of Zhou Xin, showing his unwavering integrity, such as his handling of difficult cases, punishing corrupt officials, and sympathizing with the people. These artworks not only showcase the respect and admiration that the people have for him but also preserve and inherit the precious historical and cultural heritage34.
In conclusion, the Chenghuang Pavilion in Hangzhou is a must-visit destination for those who are interested in Chinese history, culture, and architecture. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the profound cultural connotations and enjoy the magnificent natural and urban landscapes of Hangzhou.