Iron Pagoda

The Iron Pagoda of Youguo Temple, Kaifeng City, Henan province, is a Buddhist Chinese pagoda built in 1049 AD during the Song Dynasty (960–1279) of China. The pagoda is so-named not because it is made of iron, but because the color of the building resembles that of iron. It is a brick pagoda tower built on the location of a previous wooden pagoda that had been burnt down by lightning fire in 1044 AD.

The Pagoda is made of 28 various styles of glazed bricks, on which are carved more than 50 lively characters such as the Chinese Unicorn, the Buddhas, the Guarding Warriors, and the disciples of Sakyamuni and the celestials. There was originally an octagonal lotus pond under the ground floor, on which an inscribed board " The No. 1 Pagoda in China" hangs.

The thirteen-layered, octagonal pagoda is over 55 meters high. The unique construction uses bricks but follows a design of wooden pagodas. Apertures, tenons, gouges and slots on the bricks are assured different parts to be joined securely. These firm joints have enabled the pagoda to survive earthquakes, flood and destructive human efforts for over 900 years.

The glazed-bricks on the surface layer are exquisitely engraved. More than 50 distinct patterns are used, such as figures of Buddha and Bodhisattva, different flowers, and lions and kylins, to name just a few. Each pattern is of a high artistic standard show excellent craftsmanship. The steps of the brick stair spiral to the top from where you can enjoy a view of the whole city.

There is a courtyard beside the Iron Pagoda where is the former Buddhist Institute. Now, it belongs to Historical Relics Displaying Hall, in which consecrates a valueless statue of Jade Buddha. You could see an octagonal pavilion standing the other side of pagoda.