Nanxiang Twin Pagodas, also known as the Nanxiang brick towers, are a pair of ‘twin’ ancient brick pagodas that have become the iconic landmark of Nanxiang Ancient Town. The two brick towers are not far apart and may not seem extraordinary at first glance, with their relatively low height. However, these two small pagodas are the ‘oldest’ among the ancient pagodas in Shanghai and are considered treasures among China’s brick pagodas.
Exquisitely small, the pagodas are constructed from blue bricks. They feature flame-shaped doorways, simple vertical lattice windows, intricate brackets, delicate balustrades, and elegant pagoda tops, all of which exhibit the typical architectural style of the Tang and Song dynasties. The Nanxiang brick pagodas, dating back to the Five Dynasties and early Northern Song Dynasty, were originally located inside the gate of the White Crane Nanxiang Temple. They are the oldest brick pagodas in Shanghai. In the 31st year of the Qianlong Emperor’s reign (1766), a great fire destroyed the ancient temple, but the brick pagodas survived, becoming the ancient ground cultural relics of Nanxiang Ancient Town.
Next to each pagoda, there is an ancient well, protected by glass, and the remains of the old temple can also be found nearby. The pagodas are open all year round, accessible 24 hours a day.
Nanxiang Twin Pagodas
Nanxiang Twin Pagodas, also known as the Nanxiang brick towers, are a pair of ‘twin’ anc[...]
