Zhenfeng Pagoda, Buddhist pagoda in Yingjiang Temple, Anqing, China

Zhenfeng Pagoda is a 64.8-metre brick tower of seven storeys and eight corners, built in 1568 inside Yingjiang Temple on the north bank of the Yangtze in Anqing. Each of the first six floors has arched doorways opening onto an outside balcony, and 168 steps lead to the top. Wind bells hang from the flying eaves, and the walls taper slightly toward the summit.

The pagoda was built in 1570 during the Ming Dynasty as a practical aid for river navigation along a bend in the Yangtze. Specially positioned niches in its walls allowed lanterns to be placed, guiding boats safely along the waterway.

The pagoda's alternate name, "Ten-thousand Buddha Pagoda," comes from the more than 600 brick-carved Buddha figures embedded on the third, fourth and fifth floors. The ground floor houses a large statue of Amitabha, the second floor a Maitreya Buddha and the third the Five Direction Buddhas. On moonlit nights, the pagoda's reflection in the Yangtze forms the scene known as "Pagoda Shadow Across the River," one of the eight historic views of Anqing.

Climbing through the seven levels involves a series of stairs leading to viewing platforms at different heights where you can see across the city. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for narrow, steep passages inside the structure.

The pagoda displays an unusual visual quality through its gradually tapering walls that create a subtle cone shape when viewed from below. Each floor also features traditional Chinese curved eaves above the windows, a detail that distinguishes it from many similar structures of its era.