“Glimmering lake reflecting pagoda.” This famous description of Peking University’s Yan Garden perfectly captures the essence of Boya Pagoda. Right now, we stand before this iconic structure, a thirteen-story, octagonal-based pagoda, rising 37 meters high. Boya Pagoda is more than just a picturesque element. It embodies the spirit of Peking University, serving as a cherished landmark and a testament to a blend of Chinese and Western influences.
Built in 1924, Boya Pagoda originally served a practical purpose. It was constructed as a water tower for the then Yenching University, which later merged into Peking University. Its design, however, draws inspiration from traditional Chinese multi-eave pagodas of the Liao and Kin dynasties. The densely positioned, articulated dougong in the eaves is a clear indication of this inspiration. Yet, its construction reveals a Western touch. The pagoda, except for its stone base, is made entirely of reinforced concrete.
The name “Boya Pagoda” itself tells a story. It honors Lucius C. Porter, also known as Bo Chenguang, an American philosophy professor at Yenching University. Porter’s uncle, James Porter, funded the pagoda’s construction. Yenching University had a tradition of naming buildings after their benefactors. “Bo” is the first character of Lucius Porter’s Chinese name. “Ya” implies “elegant scholar,” a fitting tribute to the professor deeply influenced by Chinese culture. Sometimes, the pagoda is simply called “Porter’s Pagoda.” Lucius Porter’s connection to China ran deep. He worked at the Peking office of the Harvard-Yenching Studies Institute. His ancestors played a significant role in developing Tongzhou Union University, a predecessor to Yenching University. The pagoda’s design even echoes the Randeng Pagoda of Tongzhou.
Today, Boya Pagoda is more than just a historical artifact. It is a vibrant symbol, deeply embedded in the university’s identity. A popular tale, though untrue, claims that no building on campus can be taller than Boya Pagoda. This speaks volumes about its symbolic importance to the university community. While beautiful year-round, Boya Pagoda truly shines during festivals like the Mid-Autumn Festival and Lantern Festival. Illuminated against the night sky, it becomes a breathtaking spectacle.