Legend says a Ming Dynasty concubine rests beneath the Tower of Buddhist Incense. Emperor Qianlong wanted a garden here. But he found a tomb with a warning: “I will not disturb you if I am left undisturbed.”
Welcome to the Tower of Buddhist Incense. It stands proudly in Beijing’s Summer Palace. This tower has a rich and layered past. It’s more than just a beautiful building. It is a testament to faith and imperial power.
Originally built in 1750, the Tower of Buddhist Incense has seen destruction and rebirth. The Anglo-French Allied Forces burned it down in 1860. It was rebuilt in 1889. The eight imperialist powers destroyed it again in 1900. It was reconstructed in 1903.
Emperor Qianlong initially planned a nine-story tower. Designers suggested a change. The current Tower of Buddhist Incense was built instead. It cost 780,000 taels of silver.
Empress Dowager Cixi prayed here. She held ceremonies on the 1st and 15th of each lunar month. The tower offers stunning views. Visitors can see the entire garden. It reopened to the public in 1989 after restoration in 1987.
The Tower of Buddhist Incense sits atop Longevity Hill. It overlooks Kunming Lake. You need to climb to reach it. The Hall of Dispelling Clouds is at its base.
This hall was also burned down. It was rebuilt in 1886 for Empress Dowager Cixi’s birthday. Gifts from that celebration are still displayed there. The Hall of Virtuous Splendor is also nearby. Empress Dowager Cixi changed clothes here before praying at the tower.
The tower stands 41 meters high. It has three levels and eight facades. Its stone base is 21 meters high. It can be seen from anywhere around the lake. The tower imitates the design of Yellow Crane Tower in Wuhan.
Inside, eight ironwood pillars support the structure. Plaques hang on each level. A gilded statue of the thousand-handed Kwan-yin Buddha stands on the first floor. This statue dates back to the Ming Dynasty. It weighs five tons and is five meters high. Emperor Wanli had it cast in bronze and gilded with gold. A rubbing shows Emperor Qianlong’s inscription about Kunming Lake’s excavation.
Don’t miss the eaves-tiles. These tiny roof details symbolize longevity and prosperity. Dragons represent wealth and abundance. The Tower of Buddhist Incense retains its original colors.
Today, the Tower of Buddhist Incense stands restored. It reminds us of its history. Consider the dedication of those who rebuilt it. Feel the weight of history and the beauty of faith. The Tower of Buddhist Incense symbolizes the Summer Palace. It embodies resilience and cultural richness.