Xunyang Tower, situated on the banks of the Yangtze River just outside Jiuhua Gate, is not a particularly striking building. Its fame, however, is largely due to the stories of Song Jiang penning an anti-poem on its walls and Li Kui’s daring rescue of an execution site in “Water Margin.” Additionally, Bai Juyi’s “The Song of Pipa” has a connection to this locale. These tales have long drawn scholars and the cultured to compose verses and inscriptions, and now they lure numerous tourists eager to witness its authentic visage.
In the heart of the first floor’s lobby, on a stage-like model, stands a porcelain sculpture set depicting the 108 heroes of Liangshan. These figures are intricate and small, with lifelike expressions that instantly transport one’s thoughts to the marshes of Liangshan. The walls to the east and west are adorned with ceramic tile murals, narrating the episodes of “Song Jiang Reciting an Anti-Poem on Xunyang Tower” and “The Heroes of Liangshan Robbing the Execution Ground” from “Water Margin.”
The second floor continues the tradition of wine sales. Within the hall, a large bottle of ‘hero wine’ is prominently displayed, with a portrait of Song Jiang looming in the background. Standing here, gazing upon the flowing river and sipping on the ‘Blue Bridge Wind and Moon’ wine that Song Jiang once enjoyed, one can almost feel the essence of those bygone days.
In the eastern wing room, the wall features the ‘anti-poem’ penned by Song Jiang. Beside it stands a statue of Song Jiang, whose facial expression seems to convey a lingering sense of pride in his calligraphic prowess and the ink he once flung so freely.Xunyang Tower is a place steeped in history and culture. The inscription, “If one day my lofty aspirations are fulfilled, I dare to laugh at Huang Chao for not being a real man,” written on the tower, powerfully conveys the heroic spirit of Song Jiang, who is said to have recited an anti-poem while drunk here. This last sentence is naturally attributed to later generations but still resonates with visitors.
As you continue up the tower, you’ll discover a hidden floor nestled between the second and third floors, showcasing famous calligraphy and paintings. The third floor marks the highest point of the entire tower. Inside, square tables are arranged, recreating the ambiance of an ancient tavern. Many tourists opt to take a break here, sipping tea and immersing themselves in the leisurely pace of life from a bygone era.
It’s particularly noteworthy that from the third-floor corridor, you can gaze down upon the Yangtze River as it surges eastward. Just across the river lies Hubei territory, with the Suojiang Tower and Wenfeng Tower in close proximity. After leaving Xunyang Tower, a short walk takes you to the Suojiang Tower. Nearby, scenic spots such as Yanshui Pavilion and Tianhua Palace are also easily accessible. If time permits, you can explore these sites in sequence along the riverbank.
Xunyang Tower is open all year round, with operating hours from 09:00 to 20:30.
Visitors can find parking at the Xunyang Tower Parking Lot, with a reference price of ¥10 per time. The parking lot is located at the address listed, offering 100 parking spaces.
