Built during Emperor Xiaowen's reign in the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534), the temple was originally called Guanglin Temple and then renamed on several occasions. It underwent renovations during the early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and was named Tianning. Most of the constructions at the present temple were built during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

Reputed as the representative brick pagoda of the Liao Dynasty (916-1125), the Tianning Temple pagoda is 57.8 meters high. Octagonal in shape, the solid brick pagoda has 13 stories with multi-layered eaves. It was built on a Sumeru base with fake arched doors carved on four sides. The multi-layered eaves conceal the pagoda's body, which decreases in height layer by layer. The top of the pagoda is shaped like a pearl, and exquisite patterns are embossed on the arched doors and base. Both sides of the doors contain engravings of the Buddha warrior attendants, Bodhisattvas and flying dragons.