Donghuachi Pagoda

CHINA, Gansu, Qingyang

Located in Donghuachi Village, it was built in 1099 during the Northern Song dynasty, and is one of the better preserved multi-story, brick pagodas from the Song dynasty (960–1279) in Gansu. It was listed as a National Cultural Heritage Site in 2001.
This octagonal brick pagoda has seven stories and is 26 m high. The exterior of the first level is undecorated and there is arched door on the northeast side leading to an octagonal chamber. From the second level upwards, each side of the pagoda body is divided into three bays by pilasters. The central bay on each side alternates with arched doorways or false square doors. False windows are found on either side of the doors. Below the eaves, there are two-tier bracket sets with two projecting bracket arms. The extended eaves and rafters are covered by corrugated tiles. Above the eaves of the first, second, and third levels there is another set of two-tier bracket sets with two projecting bracket arms that support a flat base and balustrades. The top of the spire is shaped like a gourd and set with a jewel.