Wanbu Huayanjing Pagoda

The Wanbu Huayanjing Pagoda is a white octagonal structure in Hohhot that rises 55.5 meters tall and contains seven floors. Each level features spiral stairs and half-round arches that organize the interior and make it accessible for exploration.

The pagoda dates to the Liao Dynasty between 1055 and 1110 and was originally built to preserve Buddhist scriptures in the former city of Fengzhou. Its construction reflects the religious importance and building methods of that medieval period.

The first and second floors display sculptures of Heavenly Kings and Bodhisattvas that represent traditional Buddhist religious art. These figures have been objects of devotion and respect for visitors across many centuries.

The interior is open and accessible, with staircases connecting all seven levels throughout the structure. Plan to spend an hour and a half to two hours to comfortably visit all floors and enjoy views from the upper levels.

The interior walls bear over 200 inscriptions in multiple languages, including Mongolian, Tibetan, Persian, and ancient Syrian, with some dating to 1172. This collection of carved markings documents visits by pilgrims and travelers from different cultures across many centuries.