Jiaxiu Pavilion
Jiaxiu Pavilion, a jewel of Guizhou Province’s cultural heritage, stands gracefully on Nanming River in Guiyang, China. Built in 1598 during the Ming Dynasty, this three-story wooden pavilion is celebrated for its exquisite architecture, poetic inscriptions, and role as a symbol of local literacy and governance. Covering 4,000 square meters, it includes the pavilion, Cuiwei Garden, and Fuyu Bridge, forming a harmonious blend of nature and human craftsmanship. Designated a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit in 1982, it attracts over 1 million visitors annually, offering a glimpse into Guizhou’s historical and artistic legacy.
Historical Overview
1598: Commissioned by Jiang Dongzhi, the governor of Guizhou, to promote education and culture.
1621: Renovated by Xue Jingsheng, who added the “Jiaxiu” (Cultivation of Excellence) inscription.
1909: Transformed into Guizhou Higher Normal School, nurturing revolutionaries like Deng Enming.
1980s–Present: Extensive restorations, including the 2006 reconstruction of Cuiwei Garden’s corridors and pavilions.
2020: Celebrated its 422nd anniversary with cultural exhibitions and traditional performances.
Structural Layout
The pavilion complex is divided into three main sections: the pavilion itself, Cuiwei Garden, and Fuyu Bridge.
Jiaxiu Pavilion: A three-story octagonal structure with upturned eaves, supported by 12 granite pillars. The top floor houses a statue of Wen Chang, the god of literature.
Cuiwei Garden: Features rockeries, ponds, and pavilions, including the “Fuyu” (Floating Jade) Bridge connecting to the pavilion.
Fuyu Bridge: A 20-meter stone arch bridge adorned with carved dragons and lotus motifs, offering scenic views of the river.MajorAttractions
Cultivation of Excellence Inscription: A stone tablet bearing the calligraphy of Xue Jingsheng, a testament to the pavilion’s educational mission.
Moonover the Rive rPavilion: A smaller structure where scholars once gathered to compose poetry under the moonlight.
Cuiwei Garden’s Rockeries: Artificially sculpted hills with winding paths, symbolizing the pursuit of spiritual elevation.
Dragon Wall: A carved stone screen depicting nine dragons, symbolizing imperial power and good fortune.
Suggested Itineraries
Classic Route(2–3Hours)
Start at Fuyu Bridge to admire the pavilion’s reflection in the river.
Climb Jiaxiu Pavilion for panoramic views and read the inscriptions.
Stroll through Cuiwei Garden, pausing at the Moon over the River Pavilion.
End at the Dragon Wall for a photo opportunity.
Cultural Depth Route(4–5Hours)
Begin with a guided tour of Jiaxiu Pavilion’s architectural details.
Explore Cuiwei Garden’s rockeries and pavilions, learning about Ming Dynasty garden design.
Visit the Guizhou Provincial Museum (nearby) for context on regional history.
Attend a traditional tea ceremony or calligraphy demonstration (if available).
All-Day Exploration(FullDay)
Morning: Jiaxiu Pavilion → Cuiwei Garden → Guizhou Provincial Museum.
Afternoon: Hike to nearby Qianling Mountain for more views of Guiyang.
Evening: Return to Jiaxiu Pavilion for its nighttime illumination and a riverside dinner.TicketPurchase
Online: Book via the Guizhou Cultural Tourism website or WeChat (¥5–10; advance booking recommended for weekends).
On-Site: Tickets sold at the entrance; combo tickets with Cuiwei Garden cost ¥10.
Guided Tours: ¥80–150 for English/Chinese tours (1.5–2 hours).
Free Admission: Children under 1.2m, seniors over 70, and disabled visitors.
Transportation
By Subway: Line 1 to Zhongshan West Road Station (Exit D), 10-minute walk.
By Bus: Routes 2, 6, 18, or 26 to Jiaxiu Pavilion Stop.
By Taxi: Direct to “Jiǎxiù Lóu”; fare ¥15–20 from downtown.
Parking: Limited spots near the entrance (¥5/hour); public parking available 500m away.
Best Time&Tips
AvoidCrowds: Early mornings (7–9 AM) or late afternoons (5–7 PM) are ideal for photography.
Weather: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild temperatures and clear skies.
Essentials:
Bringa Camera: The pavilion’s nighttime illumination is particularly picturesque.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Cuiwei Garden’s paths are uneven in places.
Respect the Site: No climbing on historical structures or littering.
Photography: Allowed everywhere (no flash in the pavilion); tripods permitted with a permit.
Prohibited Items: Drones, loudspeakers, and commercial filming without permission.
