Pujiao Temple: A Sacred Place of Love, Echoing for a Thousand Years

📜 Historical Highlights The Setting of The Romance of the Western Chamber: The love story of Zhang Sheng and Cui Yingying in Yuan Dynasty playwright Wang Shifu’s "The Romance of the Western Chamber" originated here. The character of Hongniang (the matchmaker) was born from this story, earning the temple the title of "Sacred Place of Love." A Thousand-Year-Old Ancient Temple: Founded during the Sui and Tang Dynasties, originally named Xiyongqing Courtyard, it was renamed Pujiao Temple during the Five Dynasties period. The existing buildings were restored in 1986, preserving architectural lines from the Tang, Song, and Ming Dynasties. The Mystery of the Strange Tower: Yingying Tower (originally called the Sharira Tower) is a Ming Dynasty rebuilt dense-eave brick tower, 40 meters tall. It is famous for the "Pujiao Toad Sound" echo effect—when striking the stone, frog croaks can be heard. Along with the Echo Wall at Beijing’s Temple of Heaven, it is one of China’s four great echo buildings. 🧭 Travel Guide Opening Hours: Peak season (April–October) 8:00 AM–6:00 PM; Off-season (November–March) 8:30 AM–5:30 PM. Key Attractions: Pear Blossom Deep Courtyard: The former residence of Cui Yingying in "The Romance of the Western Chamber," recreating the stunning "Jingyan" and "Kaohong" scenes. Great Bell Tower: Climb the tower to overlook the Yellow River and experience the historical "White Horse Breakthrough" battle platform. Frog-Striking Platform: Experience the frog croaking echoes of Yingying Tower and explore this acoustic marvel. Recommended Duration: 2–3 hours, can be combined with a one-day tour of nearby Guanque Tower and Yellow River Iron Ox. 🍜 Food Recommendations Yongji Beef Dumplings: A local specialty with thin skin and fresh filling. Try nearby "Qinji" and "Zhang Erchu" near the scenic area. Yingying Restaurant: Opposite Pujiao Temple, specializing in Shanxi local cuisine with great value. Yellow River Fresh Fish: At the crossroads of Xixiang Village, "Lahuan Tian Fish Restaurant" offers fresh and spicy flavors. 💡 Practical Tips Transportation: Take bus routes 2 or 3 directly from Yongji North Station; for driving, navigate to "Xixiang Village, Puzhou Town, Yongji City." Tickets: 60 RMB per person in peak season, 50 RMB per person in off-season (refer to official website for updates). Special Activities: Night tour project "Dream · The Romance of the Western Chamber" immersive performance, combining sound, light, and electricity to recreate the classic story. Best Visiting Season: May to October, with pleasant weather. Climb the tower to enjoy the Yellow River scenery and feel the romantic atmosphere of "May lovers be united forever."