Jinma Biji Fang: The Heartbeat and Legendary Archways of Kunming

The Symbol of the Spring City

1.Located in the bustling center of: Kunming, at the intersection of Sanshi Street and Jinbi Road, stands the iconic Jinma Biji Fang (Golden Horse and Jade Chicken Archways). These two magnificent structures are not only the geographical landmark of the city but also the spiritual symbol of Kunming's history and culture. For centuries, they have stood as silent witnesses to the city's transformation, embodying the unique blend of architectural beauty and astronomical legend that defines the region.

Architectural Grandeur

2.The site consists of two opposing archways: the Jinma Fang (Golden Horse Archway) to the east, positioned against the backdrop of Jinma Mountain, and the Biji Fang (Jade Chicken Archway) to the west, set against Biji Mountain. These structures are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, featuring carved beams and painted rafters that showcase the traditional architectural style of the Yunnan region. They stand roughly a dozen meters apart, creating a grand entrance to the city's pedestrian and commercial district,.

The Legend of "Gold and Jade Intersecting"

3.The most fascinating aspect of Jinma Biji: Fang is the astronomical wonder known as "Jin Bi Jiao Hui" (The Intersection of Gold and Jade), a phenomenon said to occur only once every 60 years. Legend has it that on a specific day in autumn, as the sun sets in the west, its golden rays cast the shadow of the Biji Archway eastward onto the street. Simultaneously, the moon rises in the east, casting the silver shadow of the Jinma Archway westward. The two shadows move closer until they overlap perfectly. While this rare spectacle is largely a matter of historical record and imagination today, it adds a layer of mythical romance to the site,.

A Hub of Nightlife and Gastronomy

Even without the 60-year spectacle, Jinma Biji Fang remains a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike, particularly in the evening. As dusk falls, the archways are illuminated, creating a splendid night view that attracts photographers. The surrounding area, including the nearby Nanping Pedestrian Street and Jingxing Bird and Flower Market, is the pulse of Kunming's nightlife. It is a prime destination for food lovers, offering easy access to authentic Yunnan cuisine. Famous establishments like Qiaoxiangyuan are located nearby, serving traditional Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles (Guoqiao Mixian) and other local delicacies like Steam Pot Chicken (Qiguoji),.

A Cultural Meeting Point

4.Jinma Biji: Fang is more than just a photo opportunity; it is a gathering place where the old world meets the new. It serves as a central point for exploring Kunming, connecting visitors to other major attractions. Whether you are passing through on a road trip or exploring the city's heritage, standing beneath these archways offers a connection to the rich history of the "Spring City",.