Leifeng Pagoda (雷峰塔) Travel Guide
Nov 11, 2024
by orient china travel
Leifeng Pagoda Travel Guide for Foreigners
General Information
- Location: Leifeng Pagoda is located on Leifeng Peak of Sunset Hill to the south of West Lake in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China. It stands in contrast to the Baochu Pagoda in the north, forming a beautiful symmetrical sight along the lake.
- History: The original Leifeng Pagoda was constructed in 977 during the Taiping Xingguo period of the Northern Song Dynasty by the King of Wuyue Kingdom to celebrate the pregnancy of his favorite concubine, Huang Fei. Hence, it was initially named Huang Fei Pagoda. However, over the years, the pagoda endured various hardships such as damage from war and natural disasters. The old tower finally collapsed on September 25, 1924. The current Leifeng Pagoda was rebuilt and completed in 20022.
Highlights and Attractions
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- Architecture: The new Leifeng Pagoda is an octagonal, five-story pavilion-style tower. It is a combination of modern construction techniques and ancient Chinese architectural style, showing both elegance and grandeur. The tower is 71.679 meters high and covers an area of 3,133 square meters. The exterior is decorated with colorful paintings and carvings, which are very exquisite2.
- Scenic Views: Standing on the top of the pagoda, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the West Lake, the surrounding mountains, and even the city of Hangzhou in the distance. At dusk, when the colorful evening glow shines on the pagoda and is reflected in the rippling water of the lake, it forms a magnificent scene known as "Leifeng Pagoda in Evening Glow", which is one of the top ten scenes of the West Lake.
- Underground Palace: The underground palace beneath the Leifeng Pagoda is also a highlight. During the excavation for the reconstruction, a large number of precious cultural relics were unearthed here, including gilded bronze statues of Buddha, bronze mirrors, copper coins, jade figures, and a gilded stupa inside an iron box of Buddhist relics. These cultural relics provide valuable insights into the history and culture of the ancient times2.
- Legend: Leifeng Pagoda is closely related to the touching love story between the White Snake Spirit and a mortal man. Legend has it that the White Snake, named Bai Suzhen, and her companion Xiao Qing met a scholar named Xu Xian on the Broken Bridge by the West Lake. Xu Xian lent his umbrella to them, and they fell in love at first sight. But the evil monk Fa Hai imprisoned Xu Xian to separate the couple. Bai Suzhen fought hard to rescue her husband, but in the end, she was imprisoned under the Leifeng Pagoda. This legend has added a mysterious and romantic color to the Leifeng Pagoda.
Opening Hours and Tickets
- Opening Hours: The opening hours are usually from 08:00 to 17:30 (subject to change, it is advisable to check the official information before visiting).
- Ticket Prices: The ticket price may vary depending on different seasons and policies. Generally, it is a reasonable fee for tourists to enter and visit.
How to Get There
- By Public Transportation: You can take a bus to the relevant stops near Leifeng Pagoda. For example, there are several bus routes such as K4, K808, Y1, Y3, etc. that can take you there1.
- By Taxi or Private Car: If you prefer a more convenient way, you can take a taxi or drive your own car. There are parking facilities available near the scenic area.
Tips
- It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as there may be some walking and climbing stairs during the visit.
- When visiting the underground palace, please follow the guidance of the staff and respect the cultural relics.
- The scenery of Leifeng Pagoda is especially beautiful at dusk, so if possible, you can choose to visit at this time to enjoy the unique charm of "Leifeng Pagoda in Evening Glow".
- Pay attention to protecting the environment and do not litter in the scenic area.