To the rear of the main gate into the old town (12C) of Shexian, a magnificent Paifang (ceremonial arch or an arch dedicated to the ancestors) in grey stone extends across the full width of the main street. Built in the 16C in honour of the mandarin Xu Guo, this is the only gate in the country to consist of eight arches. The bas-reliefs depict dragons fighting a fish or spitting flames and 12 lions stand in front of the eight columns.