Leifeng Pagoda

Welcome to Leifeng Pagoda, an architectural icon that stands as a sentinel over the southern shore of Hangzhou’s famous West Lake. This structure is more than just a tower; it is a legendary bird—a phoenix that has risen from its…

As we walk toward the base of the pagoda, it is essential to understand the cultural myth that infuses every brick of this site: the Legend of the White Snake. Many Chinese proudly refer to this as 'China's Romeo and Juliet,'…

Before we head up the escalators, we must look down into the two basement stories that house the remains of the ancient tower. Here, through glass floors and protective barriers, you can see the original brick foundation from…

As we begin our ascent using the escalators—a feature that some visitors find 'funny' or 'not very authentic' but others greatly appreciate for its ease—let us analyze the modern engineering of the new Leifeng Pagoda. Completed…

As we move through the middle floors, take a moment to examine the intricate artwork that adorns the walls. One floor is dedicated to large-scale wood carvings that depict the West Lake itself—the bridges, the causeways, and the…

We have now reached the uppermost floor, the commanding height of the southern line of the West Lake. From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view that overlooks the rippling lake, the city of Hangzhou, and the…

As we begin our descent—note that the escalators do not go down, so you will have the pleasure of walking—we must consider the natural setting of the pagoda. It is situated on Sunset Hill (Xizhao Hill), south of the West Lake. …

Our journey through Leifeng Pagoda concludes back at the pedestal where we began. We have delved into the legendary love of the White Snake, explored the fragile brick ruins of the Northern Song, and looked upon the vastness of…