For travelers arriving in Guiyang for the first time, Jiaxiu Tower is undoubtedly the first stop to unlock the city's historical gates. This three-story pavilion, standing atop Aoji Rock on the Nanming River, was originally constructed in the 26th year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1598). Named with the meaning “excellent in imperial examinations,” it embodied local officials' profound aspirations to revitalize education and culture. Over four centuries, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, bearing witness to Guiyang's historical transformations. Today, it stands not only as one of “China's Ten Famous Towers” but also as a nationally protected cultural relic designated by the State Council, undeniably serving as Guiyang's cultural heart and iconic landmark.

The architecture of Jiaxiu Pavilion itself is a frozen epic. Its unique structure—featuring three stories, three eaves, and a four-cornered pyramidal roof—stands out distinctly among ancient Chinese buildings. With vermilion beams, green tiles, and upturned eaves, it appears both towering and exquisitely crafted, supported by twelve stone pillars. Connected to the tower is the Nine-Arch Stone Bridge, known as the Floating Jade Bridge. The bridge features the Hanbi Pavilion atop and the Hanbi Pool below, together forming a picture of perfect harmony. More profoundly, since Jiaxiu Tower's completion, Guizhou indeed witnessed a flourishing of humanistic achievements. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it produced “one military and two literary top scholars, three imperial examination champions, seven hundred jinshi (doctoral degree holders), and six thousand ju ren (provincial degree holders),” turning its founding aspiration of “cultivating outstanding scholars” into an inspiring cultural legend. 

Today, Jiaxiu Tower transcends its role as a mere historical relic; it stands as a “serene rainbow bridge” connecting the past and present. After nightfall, the ancient tower shimmers with vibrant hues under meticulously designed lighting, its reflection dancing upon the gentle ripples of the Nanming River. Intertwined with the city's dazzling neon lights, it weaves a modern spectacle of light and shadow, becoming the perfect backdrop for New Year's Eve and other festive celebrations.