Across the churning waters of the East China Sea, the Jigujiao Lighthouse stands sentinel. The Maota Pagoda, also known as the Jigujiao Lighthouse, has a history intertwined with the maritime story of Shanghai. Here at the mouth of the Yangtze River, where the mighty river meets the sea, this sturdy structure has guided ships for centuries. Originally known as the Maota Pagoda, meaning “Hairy Lake Pagoda,” its story stretches back over 1,150 years. This pagoda wasn’t just a religious structure. It served a vital function, a beacon for ships navigating the bustling Maohe River. Imagine the river teeming with junks laden with silk, tea, and ceramics, their sails billowing in the wind, guided by the steady light of Maota. In 1997, the Jigujiao Lighthouse, along with four other Chinese lighthouses, received a significant honor. The International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities recognized it as a world navigation mark legacy. It was even featured on a series of stamps, celebrating 100 of the world’s most important historical lighthouses. Standing here, you can almost hear the echoes of those ancient mariners, relying on this steadfast beacon to guide them safely home. The Jigujiao Lighthouse remains a testament to Shanghai’s rich maritime heritage, a link to a past when the rivers and seas were the lifeblood of trade and exploration.
Jishan Hill
High above the bustling city Jishan Hill stands proud. Its name echoes through time a testament to the renowned writer