Bhikkhuni Pagoda

The Bhikkhuni Pagoda sits on the gentle northern slope of the same mountain ridge connecting Wangjiang Ridge and Zhugeying. It is listed as a county-level cultural relic protection site. In Buddhism, a bhikkhuni is commonly known as a nun, so this pagoda is essentially the tomb of a nun. The structure is round on the top and square at the bottom, shaped much like a chime mallet.

The lower section is a hexagonal pillar divided into two tiers. The base tier is hexagonal, carved with thunder-cloud patterns. Each side of the second hexagonal tier bears exquisite carvings of rhinoceroses, kylins, lotus blossoms, birds and beasts. The craftsmanship is superb and the carvings remain well-preserved. The third tier is square with upturned eaves sheltering the hexagonal pillar below. A circular hollow is left in the centre, capped by six layers of round stone blocks stacked one above another, each with an opening in the middle, forming the chime-mallet shape.

Lotus petal patterns are carved along the outer edge of the top stone slab, which has a round central hole measuring 15 to 20 centimetres across. The pagoda stands 2.6 metres tall and covers an area of 20 square metres. Hidden among dense pine trees and surrounded by lush greenery, the pagoda stands in serene seclusion. Behind the Bhikkhuni Pagoda and Monk Yungong’s tomb lies a solemn and touching love story.

To the right of the pagoda stands an ancient tomb belonging to Monk Yungong. A couplet is inscribed in front of it: Green mountains and clear waters breed timeless elegance; Ancient virtues endure eternally and thrive through centuries.

It is extremely rare for a nun and a monk to be buried in the same precincts of a Buddhist sacred site.