Aiwan Pavilion (爱晚亭) is nestled in Qingfeng Gorge on the west bank of the Xiang River, within the Yuelu Mountain area. It was originally built in 1792 during the 57th year of Emperor Qianlong’s reign in the Qing Dynasty. The pavilion was initially named “Hongye Pavilion” (Red Leaf Pavilion) by Luo Dian, the headmaster of Yuelu Academy at the time. Later, it was renamed “Aiwan Pavilion” by Governor Bi Yuan of Huguang, inspired by the famous poem line, “停车坐爱枫林晚，霜叶红于二月花 Stopping my carriage to admire the maple forest at dusk, the frosted leaves are redder than February’s flowers.”
The pavilion covers an area of 50 square meters with each side measuring 6.23 meters. The base is 0.4 meters high, and the total height of the pavilion reaches 12 meters. The interior features round wooden columns lacquered in red, while the four exterior columns are made from square-shaped granite. The pavilion’s roof has double eaves with a pointed top, adorned with green glazed tiles, and the four corners of the roof gracefully extend upwards.
Inside the pavilion, there is a horizontal plaque inscribed with Chairman Mao Zedong’s famous poem “Ode to Autumn—Changsha.” The front of the pavilion bears the name “爱晚亭 Aiwan Pavilion” in red and gold characters, also written by Mao Zedong. Additionally, a stone tablet inside the pavilion is engraved with poems by Zhang Nanxuan and Qian Nanyuan, both of whom enjoyed their visits to the mountain.
Aiwan Pavilion exudes a simple and elegant charm, reflecting the traditional architectural style of the Qing Dynasty, with its structure facing east and being surrounded by mountains on three sides. The combination of ancient and modern elements in its design adds to its unique character.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 30 minutes |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0731-88825011 |
Location and Transportation
Aiwan Pavilion is located in Qingfeng Gorge on the west bank of the Xiang River in Changsha, Hunan Province, within the Yuelu Mountain scenic area. To reach Aiwan Pavilion, you can start from the Dongfanghong Square at the southern gate of the scenic area. From there, take the path leading up the mountain, and after about a 10-minute walk, you will arrive at the pavilion. Alternatively, after visiting Yuelu Academy, you can take the back path from the academy and walk up the mountain to reach the pavilion.
