Four Gates Pagoda, Stone pagoda in Licheng District, China
The Four Gates Pagoda is a stone structure with four identical openings facing the cardinal directions, supported internally by a central pillar with triangular beams. The building stands approximately 10 meters tall and has preserved its original form and construction techniques.
The pagoda was built in 611 AD during the Sui Dynasty, making it one of the oldest surviving pavilion-style structures in the country. Its construction marked a significant development in how Buddhist buildings were designed during that era.
Visitors can observe how the four gateways divide the interior space and support a layout rooted in Buddhist principles of harmony and balance. The design shows how early builders connected architectural form to religious meaning in tangible ways.
The site sits at the base of Qinglong Mountain, accessible to those visiting the area around Jinan, and allows time to walk around all four sides and view the interior layout. Daytime visits provide better visibility for observing the stonework and surrounding features, including the ancient tree nearby.
An ancient pine tree known as the Nine-tip Pine stands beside the structure and has drawn visitors for generations. The old tree creates an interplay between the stone monument and living nature, adding depth to the experience.
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