The Jade Pillar of Central Yunnan: A Spiritual Ascent to the Dayao White Pagoda

The "First White Pagoda" of Central Yunnan

1.Standing majestically on the summit of Tanhua: Mountain (Tanhuashan), just 3 kilometers west of Dayao County seat in Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, the Dayao White Pagoda is a striking cultural landmark known as the "First White Pagoda in Central Yunnan." Unlike many pagodas that blend into the earth tones of their surroundings, this structure shines with a pure, jade-like whiteness that contrasts beautifully against the deep blue plateau sky and the lush green mountains. Built during the Ming Dynasty (Wanli period, 1573-1620), the pagoda stands approximately 36 meters tall. It is an octagonal, thirteen-story dense-eave brick pagoda, celebrated not only for its architectural elegance but also as a symbol of the harmonious fusion between Han Chinese Buddhism and the local Yi ethnic culture. As a National 3A Tourist Scenic Spot and a provincial key cultural relic, it serves as a spiritual beacon guarding the Dayao land.

A Legacy of Tusi Legends and Ming Architecture

2.The history of the White: Pagoda is steeped in local legend and political history. It is said to have been constructed under the governance of the local Tusi (chieftain). Legend has it that the Tusi's wife dreamt of an immortal who instructed her to build a pagoda to ensure the prosperity and protection of the region. The resulting structure is a masterpiece of Ming architecture. The pagoda's body is plastered in white, giving it its distinctive name and appearance. Intricate brick carvings of flowers, birds, fish, and insects adorn the base, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the era. The pagoda is situated adjacent to the Tanhua Temple (Tanhuasi), a Buddhist monastery that dates back to the Tang Dynasty and was rebuilt in the Ming and Qing eras. Together, the pagoda and the temple form a complete sacred precinct where the sound of morning bells and the sight of rising incense create an atmosphere of profound tranquility.

A Hub of Yi Culture and Torch Festival Celebrations

3.While it is a: Buddhist monument, the Dayao White Pagoda holds a special place in the hearts of the local Yi people. The area is a vibrant center for Yi culture, particularly during the famous Torch Festival. On festival nights, the area around the pagoda transforms into a sea of fire and song. Locals and visitors gather to light torches, dance the "Guozhuang" (a traditional circle dance), and sing folk songs, with the firelight illuminating the white tower in a dreamlike spectacle. This unique blend of solemn Buddhist practice and passionate ethnic festivity makes the site a "living fossil" of cultural integration in the borderlands. Visitors can also explore the nearby Yi villages to taste local specialties like roasted meat and wild vegetables, further immersing themselves in the "firework" warmth of the local lifestyle.

Panoramic Views and Spiritual Ascent

4.Visiting the Dayao White: Pagoda offers more than just historical sightseeing; it is a journey of scenic discovery. The pagoda sits at an altitude of about 2,000 meters. Visitors can climb the winding stone steps to the pagoda's base or explore the surrounding viewing platforms. From these vantage points, one can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the Dayao Bazi (plain) and the rolling hills of the Chuxiong plateau. On clear days, lucky visitors might even catch a glimpse of the distant Jade Dragon Snow Mountain looming over the sea of clouds. Whether you are admiring the "pagoda shadow reflecting in the ancient cypress trees" at sunset or praying for good fortune and academic success at the Tanhua Temple, the Dayao White Pagoda offers a serene escape that connects the past with the present, and the earth with the sky.