An Ultimate Guide of Chinese Archways (Paifang)

When it comes to controversial architecture in China, one cannot overlook the Chinese archway, known as “paifang.” These structures have stood the test of time, carrying remnants of feudal power and recognition from rulers, stirring cycles of order and chaos.

Walking through a paifang is like stepping into a stream of time, chronicling the contributions of individuals to their clans and society over millennia. While they encapsulate old China, their presence in modern times offers a uniquely nuanced experience.

History of Chinese Archways

“Explore the rich history of Chinese archways, tracing their origins, evolution, and cultural significance through the ages.”

Paifang VS Pailou

There is a notable difference between paifang and pailou. Paifang lacks the “tower” structure—no dougong (interlocking wooden brackets) or roofs—whereas pailou features a roof, enhancing its grandeur.

However, both serve similar purposes: commemorating, decorating, marking, and guiding. They are commonly found at palace gardens, temples, tombs, ancestral halls, government offices, and street intersections. Due to long-standing public confusion over the terms “paifang” and “pailou,” they have become interchangeable.

Origins of Paifang

The history of paifang dates back to the Spring and Autumn Period, initially as a structure with two vertical posts supporting a horizontal beam, known as “hengmen.” This can be considered the ancestor of paifang.

Over time, paifang evolved into unique, commemorative structures symbolizing the highest honors in feudal society.

During the Tang Dynasty, as cities adopted the ward system, urban areas were divided into grid-like sections called “fang.” To facilitate movement between these sections, gates called “fangmen” were established, which the public eventually referred to as paifang. The origin and development of paifang reflect changes in ancient Chinese urban planning, architecture, social culture, and moral values.

Evolution of Paifang

The evolution of paifang saw changes in both function and form. Initially used as local markers, they developed various roles, including religious worship and honoring loyal officials, filial children, and virtuous women.

For instance, religious paifang were mainly found in front of temples and tombs, while those honoring ethical virtues included filial piety arches, loyalty arches, and chastity arches. These structures were not only architectural landmarks but also embodiments of ancient Chinese social ethics and culture.

Paifang names varied—such as chastity arches, longevity arches, and filial piety arches—reflecting the importance placed on values like morality, loyalty, and filial piety in ancient China.

In modern times, paifang are often traditional landmarks found at scenic or historical sites, symbolizing and marking entrances.

Although their construction has declined in modern urban development, paifang remain significant cultural landscapes in historical and tourist areas, attracting numerous visitors.

In summary, paifang, as an integral part of traditional Chinese culture, have evolved alongside changes in urban planning and architecture, reflecting shifts in social culture and values. They are vital resources for studying ancient Chinese society and culture.

Symbolism and Meaning of Chinese Archways

Chinese archways (paifang) are significant and symbolic structures within traditional Chinese culture. Here, we delve into their roles and meanings.

Functions of Paifang

1. Commemoration and Tribute: Ancient paifang were often erected in front of important figures, events, or places to commemorate and honor contributions. For instance, after the death of emperors and nobles, paifang were built to respect and remember their achievements.
2. Status and Identity Markers: Paifang were used to denote status and identity. In ancient society, only certain individuals or families had the privilege to build paifang, showcasing their prominent status and noble identity.
3. Expression of Good Wishes: Paifang also conveyed good wishes. During festive occasions, people would erect paifang at their doorsteps with auspicious inscriptions to bless and celebrate.
4. Cultural and Value Promotion: As cultural symbols, paifang embodied rich history, culture, and values. Their construction and preservation help promote ancient culture and pass down excellent values, aiding social development and progress.

Significance of Paifang

1. Honoring Ancestors and Heroes: The grand and majestic image of paifang symbolizes respect and reverence for ancestors and heroes. Erected at memorials or tombs, paifang serve as permanent tributes to their achievements.
2. Conveying Positive Energy and Good Wishes: The inscriptions on paifang often express positive values and good wishes, encouraging people to strive for moral perfection and spreading positive energy throughout society.
3. Representing Authority and Rule: In ancient society, paifang built by emperors and nobles symbolized authority and rule. The privilege of building paifang was held by specific classes, representing their power and prestige.
4. Embodying Cultural Tradition and National Spirit: As important components of traditional Chinese culture, paifang reflect the national spirit and characteristics. They record and transmit rich cultural heritage, embodying the wisdom and creativity of the Chinese people.

In short, Chinese archways (paifang) serve practical purposes such as commemoration, identification, and blessing, while also carrying deep symbolic meanings. They represent respect for ancestors and heroes, convey positive values and wishes, symbolize authority, and embody cultural traditions and national spirit. Paifang hold a significant place in traditional Chinese culture, contributing to social progress and national unity.

The Structure of Chinese Archways

Chinese archways, or paifang, have a complex and intricate structure that includes several key components: the base, pillars, horizontal beams, plaques, roof, dougong, and couplets.

1. Base: The base is the foundation of the archway, supporting its entire weight. It usually consists of a pedestal, drum stones, and squatting lions, and sometimes large stone piers mimicking wooden structures. The underground part includes column top stones, concrete, reinforced concrete, lime-soil mixture, and rammed earth, with the depth depending on the geological conditions to ensure stability.
2. Pillars: These are the main supporting structures of the archway, typically rectangular or square, sometimes with chamfered corners. The number and shape of the pillars influence the overall style and structure of the archway. Each pillar usually extends to the top and connects with the horizontal beams through mortise and tenon joints or decorative heads.
3. Horizontal Beams: Also known as e’fang or ‘yueliang’, these connect the pillars and come in various shapes, either flat or slightly arched. The beams and pillars join using mortise and tenon joints, forming the main framework of the archway.
4. Plaques: These are embedded between the pillars and horizontal beams, used for inscribing the name of the archway, the purpose of its construction, or commemorative content. Ancient plaques often bore inscriptions authorized or bestowed by the emperor, such as “Grace and Honor,” “Imperial Edict,” or “Imperial Construction.”
5. Roof: Built on the main or secondary beams, the roof primarily serves to shield from rain and enhance decoration. It consists of dougong, eaves, and ridge decorations, typically carved to imitate wooden structures.
6. Dougong: Positioned between the pillars and beams, dougong serves both structural and decorative purposes. Its shape and number vary depending on the specifications and type of the archway, usually carved from many small stone pieces to effectively distribute and transfer the archway’s weight.
7. Couplets: These are typically hung on the front or sides of the archway, consisting of paired lines of verse that express the theme and significance of the archway. The calligraphy is usually in regular or running script, adding artistic and cultural value.

These components together form the intricate and exquisite structure of Chinese archways, showcasing the unique aesthetics and craftsmanship of ancient Chinese architecture.

Common Building Materials for Chinese Archways

The choice of materials for building archways varies depending on their purpose, location, and economic conditions. Here are some common materials and their characteristics:

1. Wood: Wood is one of the most common materials for archways due to its plasticity and ease of processing, allowing for the creation of complex structures and decorations. Wooden archways are often used in folk buildings like temples and ancestral halls, reflecting reverence for deities or ancestors.
2. Brick: Brick is also a common material, especially in urban or densely populated areas. Brick archways are typically used for streets and government offices due to their durability and relatively low cost, meeting the demands of large-scale construction.
3. Stone: Stone archways, especially those built with stone, are ornamental structures often found in ancient cemeteries or important locations. Stone archways are typically made of bluestone or granite, materials that are hard and enduring, capable of withstanding the test of time, and intricately carved, possessing high artistic value.

Types of Chinese Archways

Chinese archways can be classified into different types based on various criteria. Here are some common classifications:

By Architectural Style

Chinese archways have various architectural styles, with the following being the most prominent:

• Chongtian-style Archway: This common style features two pillars connected by horizontal beams or stone slabs, forming a “gate” shape with an arched or eaved top, exuding solemnity and grandeur.
• Menlou-style Archway: This style appears as a gateway with two pillars supporting one or two gatehouses, connected by horizontal beams or stone slabs, usually shorter but intricately designed, with strong local characteristics.
• Kuaijie-style Archway: Spanning across streets, this type features a tall central archway with horizontal beams or stone slabs connecting the sides, leaving the middle open for passage, creating a majestic appearance.
• Duli-style Archway: Lacking pillars and horizontal beams, this type consists of a single or two independent pillars supporting one or two stone slabs or gatehouses, usually shorter but finely designed.
• Combination-style Archway: Made up of multiple units, this type features a main pillar or multiple pillars supporting multiple stone slabs or gatehouses, divided into several parts, creating an imposing structure.
• Double-eave Stone Archway: Developed from single-unit stone archways, this style adds two layers of roofs above the gatehouse, making the structure appear more magnificent.
• Double-pillar Stone Archway: Featuring two pillars on either side of the gatehouse, suitable for commemorating families or temples.
• Three-gate Stone Archway: Expanding from double-pillar archways, this style adds two more gates, creating a complex structure often used in royal gardens and temples.
• Five-gate Stone Archway: Adding two more gates to the three-gate style, this intricate structure is typically used in palaces and temples.
• Simple-style Archway: Characterized by a relatively simple design, this type avoids elaborate patterns and focuses on linear carvings, resulting in a minimalist and elegant appearance.
• Zhuding-style Archway: Featuring unique designs on the pillar bases, this style exudes vitality and creativity.
• Hanque-style Archway: Originating from the Han Dynasty, this style has a strong antique flavor, with double-sided large trapezoidal stone pillars, simple yet quaint.

By Material

1. Wooden Archways: The most numerous, with underground parts using cedar piles called diding. The bases of the columns above the foundation are wrapped in “clamping stones” and bound with iron hoops. Street archways have short eaves and are made into hanging or hipped roofs. The column ends protrude outside the ridge, covered with cloud cans (also called pilu caps) to prevent weathering and insect damage. The roofs of street archways generally use black tiles.
2. Glazed Archways: Often used in temple complexes, these are built on stone bases with 6-8 feet high brick walls, housing trumpet columns and framing. The brick walls have three round arches, with blue and white stone pedestals decorated with various artistic patterns. The pillars, beams, brackets, flower boards, kailan columns, dragon-phoenix boards, main floors, and secondary floors are similar to wooden archways but use yellow and green glazed bricks for an imposing and majestic appearance.
3. Stone Archways: Found mainly in scenic areas, streets, and cemeteries, stone archways range from simple single-room, two-pillar structures without a main floor to complex five-room, six-pillar, eleven-floor structures. The main floors of stone archways are often intricately carved, and if the stone is fine, the detailed carvings remain vivid for centuries.
4. Cement Archways: A modern architectural creation, few new ones are built, but they are often used for relocating and reinforcing ancient archways.
5. Colored Archways: Temporary decorative structures used for grand events, temple fairs, and market entrances, usually dismantled after the events. Made of fir poles, bamboo poles, and wood boards, they are decorated with colorful lights, creating a vibrant display.
6. Copper Archways: Designed by Chinese arts and crafts master Zhu Bingren, China’s first copper archway features lotus flower carvings and stands at the entrance to the Miaozhuangyan Road in Putuoshan. The glazed corners and exquisite copper artistry, with lifelike dragon, lion, and crane carvings, ensure durability and impressive visual effects, suitable for preservation.

By Purpose

1. Merit Archways: Built to honor academic achievements, official positions, meritorious deeds, or loyal ministers, they celebrate Confucian values of loyalty and filial piety, encourage scholarly pursuits, and attract talent. These include archways for academic achievements, official recognition, and commendable acts.
2. Centenarian Archways: Erected for centenarians to express respect and blessings, these often include elements of filial piety archways and are called “chaste longevity archways.”
3. Landmark Archways: Used for spatial demarcation and geographical marking, these are divided into archways at scenic or significant site entrances for guidance and demarcation purposes.
4. Temple Archways: Built inside and outside temples, classified into religious, altar, and ancestral temple archways, they often feature inscribed doctrines or records of the temple’s history, enhancing the sacred atmosphere.
5. Tomb Archways: Erected to commemorate and honor the deceased, usually placed on the path to tombs, highlighting the status of the tomb’s owner.
6. Clan Archways: Associated with family temples, including gates and archways outside family temples to showcase family prosperity and serve a commemorative purpose, embodying Confucian clan values.

Famous Chinese Archways

Chinese archways are renowned for their diverse styles and historical significance. Here are some of the most famous archways in China:

1. Longchang Stone Archways: Located in Longchang, Sichuan Province, these archways are famous for their grand scale and exquisite carving craftsmanship. The Longchang stone archway group mostly consists of four-pillared, three-gated, three-eaved stone structures. Each archway is about 9 meters wide and 11 meters high, with the shortest distance between them being only 10 meters. These archways are adorned with carvings of various animals, plants, and scenes from plays and religious stories, as well as meaningful inscriptions, showcasing stories of loyalty and filial piety .
2. Shunfengshan Archway: Situated in Shunfengshan Park, Shunde District, Guangdong Province, this archway was built in 2002 and is one of the largest archways in Asia. The Shunfengshan Archway is renowned for its enormous size and intricate carvings. It is 88 meters wide, 38 meters high, and weighs 14,000 tons. The archway features elaborately carved dragon pillars and various designs, highlighting the charm of traditional Chinese culture .
3. Xuguo Stone Archway: Located in Shexian, Huangshan, Anhui Province, this archway was built in 1584 during the Ming Dynasty. The Xuguo Stone Archway is unique for its eight-pillared design, forming a rare enclosed structure. This archway was erected to honor Xuguo’s meritorious deeds and loyalty, earning it the nickname “The Oriental Arc de Triomphe” .
4. Temple of Heaven Archway: Found within the Temple of Heaven Park in Beijing, this is one of the most famous stone archways in China. Known for its beautiful design and superb carving techniques, it exemplifies the unique charm of ancient Chinese architecture .
5. Xi’an Stele Forest Archway: Located in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, this archway marks the entrance to the largest collection of stone steles in China. It houses a vast array of precious stone inscriptions and carvings, showcasing the excellence of ancient Chinese calligraphy and sculpture.

These archways are not only treasures of traditional Chinese architecture but also vital carriers of Chinese culture and history, drawing numerous visitors to learn about and appreciate their significance.

The Role of Paifang in Modern Times

In contemporary times, the significance of paifang (archways) is reflected in urban architecture, tourism, city planning, and cultural cohesion within communities.

1. Urban Architecture and Tourism: Paifangs, as representatives of traditional Chinese architectural culture, are crucial for preserving city heritage and cultural depth. They attract tourists and enhance local tourism appeal, contributing significantly to the tourism industry.
2. City Planning and Construction: Paifangs play an essential role in city planning and construction, serving as landscape nodes and communal spaces. They inject historical and cultural essence into cities, enriching the urban landscape and cultural content.
3. Community Cultural Cohesion and Tradition: Paifangs also foster community cultural cohesion and the preservation of traditional customs. They become venues for community activities and cultural heritage, helping maintain and promote traditional culture and enhancing community cultural identity.

Conclusion

Chinese archways are architectural marvels that beautifully encapsulate the nation’s rich cultural heritage and historical narratives. From their intricate designs to their modern-day significance, these structures continue to inspire and attract people from around the world.