Leifeng Pagoda Tower

Address: Leifeng Pagoda, West Lake (Xihu), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China

Leifeng Pagoda is a historic pagoda on the southern bank of West Lake in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, originally constructed in 975 AD and rebuilt in 2002 after the earlier structure collapsed in 1924. It is one of the notable landmarks on Hangzhou’s West Lake circuit.

The restored pagoda contains exhibition space documenting its history and archeological finds and provides visitors with elevated views across West Lake and the surrounding parkland; the reconstruction includes modern visitor amenities to support tours. The upper levels offer panoramic outlooks and the site is frequently visited at sunset and in the evening when lighting highlights the pagoda against the lake.

The original tower was commissioned during the Wuyue kingdom; its collapse in the early 20th century and subsequent reconstruction have made the site both an archaeological interest and a contemporary cultural attraction. The rebuilt structure preserves the pagoda’s historic silhouette while accommodating modern conservation and exhibition needs.

Leifeng Pagoda stands on the southern shore of West Lake in central Hangzhou, within walking distance of other West Lake attractions and the city center.

• Dates: Originally built in 975 AD, the original structure collapsed in 1924 and a modern reconstruction was completed in 2002 with exhibition space and visitor access.
• Viewing: Best visited at sunset or after dark when the pagoda and West Lake are illuminated, offering panoramic views from the upper levels.

• Visit early in the morning on weekdays to avoid the biggest crowds around West Lake and get clearer views from the pagoda's terraces before tour groups arrive.
• Combine a Leifeng Pagoda visit with a walk along the Gushan (Solitary Hill) shore of West Lake-the pagoda's viewpoint frames the lake and opposite hills especially well at sunrise or sunset.
• Be sure to spend time inside: the reconstructed pagoda includes exhibits and viewing levels that explain its archaeology and offer different perspectives of West Lake that many visitors skip.