“Have you ever walked through an underwater tunnel?” I ask. The Moon Pagoda in Guilin stands before you. It’s one of two magnificent structures known as the Sun and Moon Pagodas. These twin pagodas are a testament to Chinese architecture and history. Originally built during the Tang Dynasty they were later reconstructed in 2001.
The Moon Pagoda is a seven-story marvel. Its octagonal base is adorned with glazed tiles. It stands in Shan Lake. It shares the lake with its taller twin the Sun Pagoda. A unique feature connecting the two is an underwater glass tunnel. Imagine swimming through the crystal-clear waters. You can see fish above and below you.
This isn’t just a pretty picture. During the reconstruction of the Sun and Moon Pagodas an amazing discovery occurred. Archaeologists uncovered the original foundations. They found several artifacts including historic prayer beads. More exciting was a stone box. Inside were scrolls written by a Tang Dynasty emperor. These scrolls linked Buddhist teachings to the Chinese zodiac. A fascinating bit of smart-aleck knowledge for you.
These precious artifacts now reside in an underground museum. The museum is on-site at the cultural park. The park celebrates the harmony of Buddhism Confucianism and Taoism. Statues of Laozi and Confucius stand alongside reliefs of the Bodhisattva Bhaisajyaguru patron of the Chinese Zodiac.
Climb the Moon Pagoda and take in the view. You’ll see downtown Guilin stretching out below. The Sun Pagoda is nearby. It boasts nine stories. It is made of bronze. And it is the tallest bronze pagoda in the world. It even has an elevator though it only goes to the sixth floor.
As you depart I want you to remember. The Moon Pagoda is more than just a pagoda. It’s a portal to history culture and a testament to the ingenuity of the Chinese people. It is a place where the past and the present meet in a harmonious blend of architecture and legend. A truly unforgettable part of your Guilin adventure.