Leifeng Pagoda — Attraction in Hangzhou City

Leifeng Pagoda is a 5-storey tower with eight sides, located on the Sunset Hill south of the West Lake in Hangzhou. Originally constructed in the year AD 975, it collapsed in 1924 but was rebuilt in 2002. Since then, it has become a popular tourist attraction and true enough, on the day of our visit, it was super crowded with a long queue entering it. It is within the premise of Jing Ci Temple.

The Leifeng Pagoda is associated with a touching love story between a white snake spirit and a mortal man. Legend has it that a white snake and a green snake took on the appearance of beautiful ladies after acquiring the supernatural powers over thousands of years. They were named Bai Suzhen and Xiao Qing. One day when they were visiting West Lake, it suddenly rained. Fortunately, they met a scholar named Xu Xian on the Broken Bridge. He lent his umbrella to them. Xu Xian and Bai Suzhen fell in love with each other at first sight. Soon, they were married.

However, Evil Monk Fa Hai imprisoned Xu Xian so as to separate this couple. Bai Suzhen tried hard to save her husband by using her power. But all her efforts were in vain, and she was imprisoned under the Leifeng Pagoda. Driven by anger and sadness, Xiao Qing tried her utmost to improve her supernatural power. Finally, she beat the Evil Monk Fa Hai, tore down the tower, and saved Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian. From then on, Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian lived together...

The Leifeng Pagoda in Hangzhou is a mesmerizing testament to both ancient history and modern marvels. This iconic structure, reconstructed in 2002, rises majestically on the shores of the West Lake, its silhouette gracing the skyline with elegance. The pagoda's architectural grandeur, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant paintings, reflects the rich cultural tapestry of China.

Ascending the pagoda unveils panoramic views of Hangzhou's enchanting landscapes, creating an immersive experience for visitors. The surrounding gardens add to the allure, providing a serene environment for contemplation. The pagoda's historical significance, intertwined with legends dating back to the Tang Dynasty, adds a layer of mystique to the visit.

The innovative use of technology is another highlight, as the pagoda houses a fascinating underground museum that showcases relics and artifacts, offering a comprehensive journey through time. The combination of tradition and modernity makes the Leifeng Pagoda a multifaceted attraction, appealing to history enthusiasts, art lovers, and those seeking a harmonious blend of cultural richness and contemporary exploration.

Overall, the Leifeng Pagoda is not merely a structure but a living testament to China's cultural heritage, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of its architecture, legends, and the picturesque surroundings of...

3 stars sounds harsh, but I guess thats because basically it's a fake for the tourist trade. Worth a visit to see "that" side of China. And it IS a spectacular location and the views are good. I went in 2008 at Chinese New Year. Maintenance guys working all the time - it seems health & safety wasn't really on the agenda - people going over the edge of an external balcony with a bit of rope tied around their middle and tied off to almost nothing at all! The ruins are part of an ancient temple, and as another reviewer has said they are behind glass. BUT the fakeness was still there. Some constructions behind the glass clearly were cast concrete and totally fake. You could offer buddhist prayers at some locations, but again, it's all for the tourists who buy the candles. And of course, we did, and enjoyed our visit and the...