Exploring the Timeless Beauty - The Enigmatic Charm of Zhaoqing's Lizhao Tower

Where to go during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday? You can take the high-speed train to Zhaoqing. Today, I visited a legendary landmark in Zhaoqing's Duanzhou District - 🏰 This building has stood for nearly a thousand years, boasting a rich and captivating history! Originally named Yushu Tower, it was also known as Yongming Palace or the Red Tower. This site was once the fiefdom of Emperor Zhao Ji of the Song Dynasty. After ascending the throne, Zhao Ji personally inscribed the name "Zhaoqing Prefecture" as a gift. To honor this imperial inscription, local officials built a high platform in front of the prefectural office and erected this tower, hence the name "Yushu Tower." During the Ming Dynasty, it was rebuilt and renamed Lizhao Tower. In the late Ming period, Prince Gui Zhu Youlang ascended the throne here and transformed it into Yongming Palace. In the early years of the People's Republic of China, the tower was named the Red Tower due to its color. Stepping into Lizhao Tower, you'll find treasures such as the copper water clock, the Qianning bronze bell, and the giant rattan drum—ancient timekeeping devices. Behind the tower lies the prefectural office, which served as the administrative center of ancient Duanzhou. During the Song Dynasty, the renowned official Bao Zheng held office here for three years, earning widespread acclaim for his integrity. Today, the base of Lizhao Tower and the archway bear plaques inscribed with "Ancient Duan's Famous Prefecture" and couplets reading "Starry Rock Shines Bright Over Mountains and Seas, Inkstone Islet's Gentle Breeze Spreads Through Time," exuding a strong sense of ancient charm. Come and savor the timeless elegance preserved in this historic site! 🌟🖋️