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Cangzhou Iron Lion is located in Jiuzhou Town in Cangzhou City of Hebei Province.  In the ancient times, this city was a seaport and it experienced severe tidal floodings and tsunamis. In order to avert the floods, in 953 the local people collected money and invited the famous blacksmith Li Yun to cast an iron lion to confront the sea spirits. The Iron Lion was given the grand-sounding name "Zhen Hai Hou", meaning "the Roar to Calm the Sea". It was regarded as the symbol of this ancient city.

Cangzhou Iron Lion measures 5.3m (17.3 feet) tall, 6.5m (7.1 yards) long and 3m (3.3 yards) wide. Its body seems to be composed of several hundreds pieces of 30 centimeters square cast iron, but was actually cast in one piece using the traditional Chinese "piece-moulding" method. Its estimated weight is 50 metric tonnes.

Cangzhou Iron Lion, facing north, opens its huge mouth widely and stares angrily into the distance. Rising up its proud head, it appears in great dignity indicative of the three characters "Shizi Wang" (The Lion King) cast on its head. It bears on its back a huge lotus seat which is said to be the throne of Wenshu Bodhisattva.

This scenic spot of Cangzhou Iron Lion is the largest iron cast cultural relic in existence in China. It is evidence of the high achievement of casting technique in ancient China. However, because of its exposure to the elements over a long period of time, the lion is severely rusted and has cracks on its limbs. Restoration work has stabilizes the deterioration, and the effort of a team of international experts is making great strides to save this national treasure. We hope that by their hard work, the Iron Lion could regain its past stately appearance.

Travel Tips
Add:  in Jiuzhou Town in Cangzhou City of Hebei Province. 
Opening Hours: 08:00-17:00
Entrance Fees: CNY 60