Wu Ta, located at the eastern foot of Wu Shi Mountain in Fuzhou City, stands in distant opposition to the White Pagoda at Yu Mountain. Originally named ‘Chong Miao Bao Sheng Jian Lao Tower’, it is commonly referred to as Wu Ta due to its black granite construction. The predecessor of Wu Ta was the ‘Jing Guang Tower’ built during the Tang Dynasty in the fifteenth year of the Zhenyuan era. This octagonal, seven-story tower stands at a height of 35 meters, with each level adorned with relief Buddha statues, totaling 46.
On the fourth, fifth, and seventh levels, there are embedded tablets including the tower’s name, the record of its construction, and inscriptions for blessings. Wu Ta is currently not accessible for climbing and can only be viewed from the outside. Inside the pavilion, there is a stele titled ‘Imperial Decree of the Zhenyuan Era on the Pure Light Tower’, which is one of the earliest existing steles in China. Over time, the exterior of the stone tower has turned black, hence its nickname Wu Ta. Together with the White Pagoda at Yu Mountain, they form a strategic layout and symbolize Fuzhou. The site is open all year round, accessible 24/7.Related posts:
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