The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, located in Yingxian County, Shanxi Province, China, was built in 1056. The entire tower is made of mortise and tenon joints without a single screw, demonstrating the high technology of mortise and tenon joints. In 2016, it was recognized by the Guinness World Records as the "world's tallest wooden pagoda."

When I set foot on the land of Ying County, the towering wooden tower came into view from afar. It is like an old man who has experienced thousands of years of wind and rain, standing there quietly, telling stories of the past.

Approaching the wooden tower, I was shocked by its majestic momentum. This pure wooden pagoda does not use a single iron nail, and is supported by the mortise and tenon structure. This exquisite structural craftsmanship makes me respect the wisdom of ancient craftsmen.

Stepping into the tower and looking up, the complex and delicate mortise and tenon connection is clearly visible. Every combination of tenon and mortise is just right and fits perfectly. This unique structural method not only makes the wooden tower have strong stability, but also gives it a unique artistic charm.

Spiraling up along the narrow stairs, it seems to travel through time and space. Touching those ancient wooden beams and feeling the traces left by the years on them, an inexplicable touch surges in my heart. The mortise and tenon structure is fully displayed here. The brackets on each floor are like a carefully choreographed dance, graceful and coordinated.

Standing on the top of the tower, overlooking the scenery of Ying County, I feel a lot of emotion in my heart. This wooden tower has experienced countless wind and rain erosion, earthquakes and wars, but it still stands tall. The magical power of the mortise and tenon structure is indispensable.

If you are interested in mortise and tenon joints, please explore the furniture in the Mortise and Tenon Joint series.   

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