Xi Zi Pagoda

[1] This practice reflects the deep respect and reverence ancient scholars and literati held for written characters.

The belief that written characters were sacred, influenced by the imperial examination system, was deeply ingrained in ancient Chinese culture.

The opening poem of Volume 1 of a Ming dynasty fiction book Er Ke Pai An (二刻拍案惊奇) states: "Written characters are no different than sutras, and should be consigned to fire by those who see them, or disposed into a clean, flowing stream.

These pagodas were typically erected at the entrances of towns, within academies and temples, and beside roads and bridges.

Certain pagodas featured shrines dedicated to Cang Jie, Wenchang, and Confucius,[3] and were often adorned with corresponding couplets and auspicious patterns.