The winter sun casts a warm glow on Stork Tower, or Guanquelou, a historic monument in the county-level city of Yongji in north China’s Shanxi Province. Overlooking the shimmering Yellow River, this ancient tower is not just a scenic spot but a bridge connecting modern visitors with the rich literary heritage of the Tang Dynasty (618-907).
It was here that the famed poet Wang Zhihuan (688-742) penned his iconic poem, On the Stork Tower, a piece known by heart to many who have attended school in China. The poem captures the timeless beauty of the landscape and the aspiration to reach new heights:
“The setting sun beyond the mountains glows, The Yellow River seaward flows. One can enjoy a grander sight, By climbing onto a greater height.”
Today, Stork Tower continues to inspire countless visitors who climb its storied steps to experience the same breathtaking views that moved Wang Zhihuan over a millennium ago. The tower offers panoramic vistas of the Yellow River and the surrounding mountains, providing a tangible connection to China’s poetic past.
“Standing atop Stork Tower, I feel a profound link to our history and culture,” said Li Ming, a tourist from Beijing. “The poem comes alive when you see the sunset and the river flowing just as they did centuries ago.”
The local government has invested in preserving and promoting Stork Tower, recognizing its cultural significance. Efforts include restorations and the development of educational programs that celebrate Tang Dynasty poetry and Chinese literary traditions.
For travelers and culture enthusiasts, a visit to Stork Tower is more than sightseeing; it’s an immersive journey into China’s rich poetic legacy, offering insight into the nation’s enduring appreciation for literature and natural beauty.
