The Wenchang Tower, a historical landmark with over 300 years of history, stands majestically about 3 kilometers south of Hepu County. Constructed during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty, this octagonal tower reaches a height of approximately 36 meters. Its base measures 8.1 meters, and the inner diameter is 2.6 meters. Characterized by its seven-story overlapping cornice design, the tower’s shape tapers gracefully from the bottom up, culminating in a red gourd at the top.
Each floor of the Wenchang Tower features east-west ventilation doors, known as the Kunmen and Fengmen, while the remaining doors serve as decorative false doors. A spiral staircase winds its way up the interior, allowing visitors to ascend to the top. The tower’s body is predominantly white, with red accents on the corners and arch edges, creating a striking contrast and a simple yet elegant aesthetic.
From the top of the tower, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the distant Beihai. The tower’s foundation, which is about one meter larger than the base, is constructed with long stone slabs and follows the same octagonal shape as the tower itself. The entire structure is built using blue bricks, which are meticulously jointed and plastered, with the design narrowing and reducing in size as it rises.
Visitors are welcome to explore the Wenchang Tower all year round, as it is open all day every day. However, it is important to note that only close-range viewing is permitted, and climbing the tower is strictly prohibited. This ensures the preservation of this historic monument for future generations to appreciate.
