Sanyuan Pagoda

Updated 2026-06-30

A striking Ming-dynasty tower known for its feng shui symbolism, panoramic river views, and centuries-old connection to scholarly success.

The pagoda is an elegant octagonal brick tower with nine stories, rising in harmonious proportions above the hillside. Its geometry appears balanced from every angle, reflecting the sophisticated design principles of traditional Chinese tower construction.
Standing proudly on Baisha Mountain overlooking the Xijiang River, Sanyuan Pagoda is one of Deqing’s most recognizable historical landmarks as welle as one of Zhaoqing’s most ancient towers. Combining striking Ming Dynasty architecture with rich symbolism linked to scholarly success, the pagoda remains an important cultural monument in western Guangdong.

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Symbolic

Built in 1599 during the Wanli period of Ming Dynasty, the pagoda was constructed not only as a scenic landmark but also as a powerful feng shui structure believed to enhance prosperity, talent, and academic achievement for the region. Its name, 三元 (Sanyuan) refers to the highest honors in China’s imperial examination system : Jieyuan, Huiyuan, and Zhuangyuan, symbolizing ultimate scholarly success. According to local legend, craftsmen used a rare mortar mixed with cinnabar and mineral compounds, giving the tower exceptional durability and its distinctive warm-toned surface. At the base of the pagoda stand eight stone guardian figures, reinforcing both the monument’s spiritual symbolism and its visual grandeur.

Beyond its scenic value, Sanyuan Pagoda is bounded with education and scholarly ambition. For centuries, students and families visited the site to pray for success in examinations and official careers.

Opening Hours

07:00 am - 05:00 pm

Nearby Attractions

• Deqing Academy
• Yuecheng Longmu Ancestral Temple : a famous temple dedicated to the Dragon Mother
• Panlong Gorge

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#### Photo credit by Zhangzhugang - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
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