On Baoshi Hill, in Hangzhou, the Baochu Pagoda dominates the northern shore of West Lake. Its slender silhouette, visible from most vantage points across the city, has become an iconic landmark in Hangzhou's landscape, in Zhejiang Province.

Why visit Baochu Pagoda

Baochu Pagoda stands out for three reasons: its elevated position offering panoramic views over West Lake and the old city, its octagonal brick architecture typical of the Northern Song period, and its integration into a tree-lined walking route connecting several cultural sites on Baoshi Hill. The monument itself is not accessible from inside, but the path to reach it constitutes a walk of approximately 1 to 2 hours, best combined with the Yellow Dragon Cave situated below.

History of the pagoda

Baochu Pagoda was erected around 963, during the Kaibao era, under the Northern Song dynasty (960-1127). Its origin is linked to a political episode: Qian Chu, king of Wuyue, was summoned by Emperor Zhao Kuangyin to Kaifeng, in Henan Province. As his absence prolonged, his uncle is said to have commissioned the pagoda's construction to bring him luck and ensure his safe return.

Over the centuries, the edifice has been reconstructed several times. A major restoration took place during the reign of Emperor Qianlong, under the Qing dynasty (1644-1912). Two further renovation campaigns were undertaken in the 20th century, in 1932 and then in 1997. In 2013, the pagoda was designated a state-protected cultural heritage site.

What you'll observe on site

Pagoda architecture

The structure is entirely built of brick and adopts an octagonal form from base to summit. Upon its initial construction, it counted nine stories; it has seven today. The dimensions of each side diminish as one ascends: the lower sides measure 3.3 metres. An iron finial crowns the whole, giving the pagoda the profile of an octagonal pyramid extended by a long spire reaching skyward. On a wall of the first story, an engraved stele details the various reconstruction campaigns.

The interior is not open to the public. Interest therefore concentrates on the exterior of the building and the panorama afforded by the hill.

The Yellow Dragon Cave

At the start of the path leading to the pagoda, the Yellow Dragon Cave (Huanglongdong) constitutes an interesting stopping point. Small and surrounded by dense vegetation, it forms part of a classical Chinese garden where water, bamboo and rockeries compose a carefully arranged setting. The site lends itself to a brief visit before or after the ascent to Baochu.

Practical information

• Free access to the site, pagoda not accessible from inside
• Recommended visit duration: 1 to 2 hours, plus 30 to 45 minutes for the Yellow Dragon Cave
• Walking shoes advised: the ascent is made via a paved path on an incline
• The site remains open in the evening, with the pagoda illuminated at dusk

When to visit

Hangzhou is pleasantly visited in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), the most temperate and stable seasons. Summer is hot and humid, winter mild but sometimes rainy. For Baochu Pagoda, early morning is a privileged time: the raking light enhances West Lake, crowds are sparse and you may hear residents practicing tai-chi or singing on neighbouring terraces. Late afternoon, at sunset, is equally recommended.

How to get there

Several bus lines serve the area: 7, Y10, 27, 51, 52 and 118. Get off at Geling stop, then walk approximately 300 metres towards the north-east. Signs indicate the start of the path. From central Hangzhou, allow 20 to 30 minutes travel time depending on traffic.

What to see nearby

Baochu Pagoda falls within the perimeter of West Lake, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Several sites can be visited in the same day: the Bai dike, the pavilions on the northern shore, Lingyin Temple a little further west and the traditional gardens bordering the lake. To extend your discovery of Chinese Buddhist structures, you can consult the pages on the Great Pagoda of the Wild Goose in Xi'an or the Thousand Buddhas caves at Bezeklik.

Frequently asked questions

To learn more

Baochu Pagoda lends itself to a brief but memorable visit, to include in a stay in Hangzhou or a tour through Zhejiang. To plan your itinerary, consult our journeys in Chine and our complete guide to Hangzhou.