Xunyang Tower in Jiujiang

Renowned as one of China’s Top Ten Jiangnan Towers and immortalized by the Water Margin tale of Song Jiang inscribing a “treason poem” while drunk, Xunyang Tower perches on the Yangtze River bank at Binjiang East Road, Xunyang District, downtown Jiujiang (formerly known as Xunyang Prefecture). Originating as a folk restaurant over 1,200 years ago, the present Song-dynasty-style tower was reconstructed in 1987 and completed in 1989, boasting an exterior of 3 floors and an interior of 4 floors, with vivid murals, porcelain sculptures of the 108 Heroes of Liangshan, and a top-floor observation deck offering sweeping views of the Yangtze, Suojiang Tower, and the distant Jiujiang Yangtze River Bridge.

Highlights of Xunyang Tower

1. Cultural Exhibitions & Themed Halls
   • 1st Floor Grand Hall: Two large ceramic tile murals depicting Song Jiang Inscribing the Treason Poem and Heroes Rescuing the Prison Yard; the east wing houses a statue of Song Jiang and a replica of his controversial poem.
   • 2nd Floor: Porcelain sculptures of the 108 Heroes of Liangshan (exquisite Jingdezhen porcelain art), with detailed biographies and character introductions; there is also a themed tavern area recreating the ancient riverside drinking atmosphere.
   • 3rd Floor Corridor & 4th Floor Exhibition Hall: The 3rd floor is an open-air veranda, the best spot for Yangtze River viewing; the 4th floor (hidden floor) displays calligraphy, paintings, and cultural relics related to Xunyang Tower and the Water Margin, as well as works by modern calligraphers and painters.
   • Top Observation Deck: Offers unobstructed 360° views—rolling Yangtze currents, passing cargo ships, Suojiang Tower and its pagoda nearby, the Jiujiang Yangtze River Bridge in the distance, and even the Hubei shore across the river.
2. Seasonal Beauty & Cultural Experiences
   • Spring & Autumn: Mild temperatures, clear skies; ideal for photography (sunrise over the Yangtze, sunset glows on the tower’s eaves) and cultural tours.
   • Summer: Cool river breezes on the 3rd-floor veranda, a pleasant escape from urban heat; night lighting of the tower creates stunning reflections on the river surface.
   • Winter: Serene atmosphere, misty river views; fewer crowds, perfect for quiet reading of Water Margin excerpts and appreciation of ancient architecture.
   • Cultural Events: Traditional festivals (Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival) feature folk performances, poetry recitals, and Water Margin-themed costume experiences; the tower also hosts calligraphy and painting exhibitions and tea-tasting sessions regularly.
3. Facilities & Safety
   • Wooden staircases with handrails; non-slip mats in wet areas (especially recommended on rainy days).
   • Rest areas, drinking water stations, and souvenir shops at the entrance and on each floor.
   • On-site tour guides and audio guides (bookable in advance; free audio guides may be available via the official mini-program).
   • No smoking inside the tower; fire safety facilities are fully equipped.

Who Should Visit

• Water Margin fans and Chinese classical literature lovers eager to immerse themselves in the legendary scene of Song Jiang writing the treason poem
• Cultural travelers who appreciate Song-dynasty-style classical architecture, murals, and porcelain sculpture art
• Photographers chasing Yangtze River sunrises, sunsets, tower night lights, and the contrast between ancient buildings and modern bridges
• City walkers looking to experience the blend of ancient river culture and modern urban life in downtown Jiujiang
• Students and families interested in immersive Chinese classical literature and history education

Nearby Attractions

• Suojiang Tower & Suojiang Pagoda (a 15-minute walk along the riverbank)
• Yanshui Pavilion & Gantang Lake (a short drive or bus ride from the tower)
• Pipa Pavilion (commemorating Bai Juyi and Song of the Pipa Player)
• Jiujiang Museum
• Xunyang Ancient Street (traditional snacks and cultural souvenirs)
• Jiujiang Yangtze River Bridge Viewing Area