Feihong Pagoda (飞虹塔, Flying Raibow Pagoda), located within Guangsheng Temple in Hongtong County, Shanxi Province, is a remarkable example of ancient Chinese architecture and artistry. The pagoda traces its origins to the Ayuwang Pagoda, built in the first year of the Jianhe era during the Eastern Han Dynasty (147 AD) as a stupa for the Buddha’s relics. It underwent significant expansions during the Tang Dynasty in 769 AD, and was later rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty in 1515. The current structure was completed in 1527 during the reign of Emperor Jiajing, with the addition of glazed tiles to the pagoda’s exterior in 1622.
Feihong Pagoda is a 13-story, octagonal, pavilion-style pagoda standing at a height of 47.31 meters, entirely constructed from bricks. The pagoda’s distinctive conical shape is defined by its gradually tapering tiers, topped with a hipped roof. The exterior is adorned with colorful glazed tiles, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of Shanxi’s traditional glazed pottery. This pagoda is a representative work among China’s glazed pagodas and was famously featured in the 1986 CCTV television series Journey to the West in the episode “The Monk Sweeps the Pagoda.”
The second and higher levels of the pagoda are richly decorated with intricate glazed sculptures in blue, green, yellow, white, and black. Each tier features glazed eaves, imitating wooden brackets interspersed with lotus petal patterns. From the third to the tenth floors, the pagoda’s surfaces are adorned with niches, doorways, and beams, housing statues of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and celestial beings. The second level has a circumferential platform with glazed railings and pillars, featuring statues of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, heavenly kings, disciples, and Vajras. On the third level, each of the four cardinal directions hosts a glazed archway, with statues of the Four Heavenly Kings prominently displayed. The entire pagoda is embellished with various glazed components, including roof ornaments, pavilions, columns, niches, floral designs, and figurative sculptures, all crafted with intricate detail and vibrant colors. Additionally, over a hundred iron bells are suspended throughout the structure, adding to its enchanting presence.
