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Nine-Dragon Screen
Introducing Datong Nine-Dragon Screen
Source: Grove Art Online; http://www.oxfordartonline.com/ (accessed 7/31/2012)
Nine Dragon Screen is also called Nine-Dragon Wall. Nine Dragon Screen is a type of screen wall adorned with reliefs depicting nine distinct Chinese dragons. The number nine in Nine-Dragon Screen holds significant cultural importance in China as the largest possible single digit, and Chinese dragons are closely associated with it. Particularly, yellow or golden dragons with five claws on each foot have long symbolized the emperor in numerous Chinese dynasties.
Such screens served as a shield, not from physical assaults, but from wandering, evil spirits. Therefore, they can be viewed as the first line of defense in feng shui.
The Nine Dragon Screen in Datong, one of the most exceptional spirit walls in China, has two similar structures in Beijing. It stands as the largest of its kind, measuring 45.5m in length, 8m in height, and 2m in thickness. Constructed in 1392 during the Ming dynasty, it once served as a protective barrier for a palace owned by the 13th son of a Ming emperor, which unfortunately was destroyed by fire in 1644. Today, the palace has been rebuilt in its entirety, spanning a considerable portion of the city.
Datong Nine-Dragon Screen Fast Facts
• AKA: Nine Dragon Wall
• Chinese Name: Jiu long Bi 九龙壁
• Best Time to Visit: Apr, May, Jun, Sept & Oct
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 15- 30 minutes
• Things to Do: Architecture, relief (sculpture)
• Opening Hours: 8:00 - 18:00(May - Oct);8:30 - 17:30(Oct - Apr)
• Entrance Fee: CNY 10; free for children under 1.2m (3.9ft).
• Address: Heyang Street, Pingcheng District, Datong
What to Expect at Datong Nine-Dragon Screen
The Nine-Dragon Screen in Datong dates back to 1392. Initially erected to ward off malevolent spirits, it originally adorned the palace of the viceroy of Shanxi Province, who was the 13th son of the Hongwu emperor (reigned 1368-1398). Sadly, the palace succumbed to fire in the mid-17th century. The screen is adorned with glazed ceramic tiles in five vibrant colors. Just above the base, intricate depictions of lions, tigers, elephants, qilin (mythical unicorn-like creatures), and other animals can be found. Above these smaller figures rise nine imposing dragons in high relief, emerging from swirling waves. Notably, all the dragons are depicted with four claws, a distinction reserved for imperial nobility and certain high-ranking officials. The top of the screen is designed to resemble a traditional roof, complete with tiles and ornamental ridge acroteria. In 1954, the screen was relocated approximately 10 meters from its original position.
How to Get to Datong Nine-Dragon Screen
• The Nine-Dragon Screen is located at Heyang Street, inside the newly built Datong City Wall.
• By Bus: take bus 38 to the Nine Dragon Screen station.