The Great Iron Oxen of the Yellow River, forged with the strength of a nation, are truly worth seeing!

At the Pujindu Ruins in Yongji stand four iron oxen, each accompanied by an iron figure representing one of four ethnic groups: Hui, Han, Mongol, and Tibetan, symbolizing national unity. Cast during the Kaiyuan era of the Tang Dynasty, they have a history of over 1,300 years. Pujindu was a major ferry crossing on the ancient Yellow River, connecting the regions of Qin and Jin. Throughout history, many dynasties built pontoon bridges here, but their instability often led to destruction by floods. During Emperor Xuanzong's reign of the Tang Dynasty, the nation was prosperous, and iron smelting technology had matured significantly. Determined to build a durable bridge, the emperor commissioned this project. As the ancients said: "The ox symbolizes Kun (Earth), and Earth overcomes Water." Later, vast amounts of iron were melted down to create four massive iron oxen, replacing the original wooden stakes to anchor the suspension bridge. Each ox weighs approximately 55 to 75 tons. It is estimated that the iron used for the entire bridge accounted for four-fifths of the nation's annual iron output at the time—truly a monumental national endeavor! After the bridge's completion, the Yellow River's waters grew calmer, bringing immense benefits to the people on both shores. Through centuries of rise and fall, the Great Iron Oxen still stand here, silently guarding the site and recounting their ancient tale. Location: Pujindu Ruins, Yongji City Free admission Opening hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM Public transport: Yongji Tourist Bus (West Line); self-driving is also convenient with ample parking. #YunchengTravel #YongjiTravelGuide #PujinduRuins #ShanxiTravel #WeekendGetaway #GreatIronOxenOfPujindu