Liuhe Pagoda

Liuhe Pagoda stands on the north bank of the Qiantang River, an octagonal brick-and-wood tower first built in 970 AD. It is Hangzhou's quiet counterpoint to the West Lake crowds, and climbing its 13 storeys rewards you with sweeping river views. Our private guide handles the tickets and timing so you simply enjoy the climb.

What it is

Liuhe Pagoda, or the Pagoda of Six Harmonies, was commissioned in 970 by the King of Wuyue to pacify the tidal bore of the Qiantang River. The original nine-storey structure was destroyed and rebuilt in 1153 during the Southern Song dynasty. Its name refers to the six Buddhist harmonies: body, speech, mind, virtue, benefit, and harmony with others. The pagoda served as a navigational landmark for ships and a spiritual anchor for the city. Its brick core and wooden eaves are a rare surviving example of Song dynasty architecture.

The pagoda you see today is a 13-storey, 59.89-metre tower, though only seven interior levels are accessible. The exterior wooden eaves were added in 1735 under the Qing dynasty, giving it a distinctive layered silhouette. Inside, a spiral staircase winds up past stone carvings and inscriptions. The site also includes a small garden and the remains of a Ming dynasty temple. For a deeper look at Hangzhou's religious heritage, pair this with a visit to Lingyin Temple.

Highlights

Panoramic river views — From the top gallery, watch the Qiantang River's tidal bore surge upstream, especially during the autumn equinox.
Song dynasty brick core — The original 1153 brickwork survives beneath the wooden shell, with intricate carvings of Buddhist figures.
Wooden eaves — The 13 tiers of upturned eaves create a striking silhouette and offer shaded perches for photography.
Peaceful gardens — The surrounding compound includes a small pond and bamboo grove, a calm escape from the city's bustle.
Historical inscriptions — Stone tablets and plaques record centuries of renovations and imperial visits, with English signage.

Pathway leading to Liuhe Pagoda entrance with visitors

How to get there

Liuhe Pagoda is about 15 km southwest of West Lake, a 30-minute taxi ride (¥40–50) from downtown. By metro, take Line 4 to Shuichengqiao Station and transfer to bus 287 or 318; the ride takes roughly 50 minutes. We usually combine it with a morning at West Lake and an afternoon here, timing the visit for low tide or high tide depending on the season. Our guide can arrange a private car for a seamless half-day trip.

Tickets & practical info

Admission is ¥20 for the park and an additional ¥10 to climb the pagoda, so ¥30 total. Opening hours are 6:30–17:30 (last entry 17:00). Tickets can be bought on-site, but we recommend booking via WeChat mini-program in advance during holidays. Foreign cards are accepted at the ticket office, and WeChat Pay or Alipay linked to an international card works at most counters.

Best time to visit

Visit in late September or early October to catch the Qiantang tidal bore, when the river surges dramatically. Otherwise, aim for early morning (before 9 am) or late afternoon (after 4 pm) to avoid tour groups and enjoy softer light. Spring (March–May) offers mild weather and blooming gardens. Avoid weekends and Chinese public holidays if you prefer quiet.

Tips from our guides

Wear comfortable shoes; the spiral staircase is narrow and steep, with 104 steps to the top.
Bring a zoom lens or binoculars to capture the tidal bore from the upper galleries.
Check the tide schedule online or ask our guide; the bore occurs twice daily but is most spectacular in autumn.
Combine with a visit to the nearby China National Tea Museum for a full day in the area.
Photography is allowed inside, but avoid flash near the stone carvings to prevent damage.

Close-up of carved brick and wooden details on Liuhe Pagoda

FAQ

How long does it take to visit Liuhe Pagoda?

Most visitors spend 1–1.5 hours here, including the climb and a walk through the gardens. If you linger for photography or tide-watching, allow two hours.

Is the pagoda accessible for people with mobility issues?

The ground-level park is wheelchair-friendly, but the pagoda itself has no elevator and a narrow spiral staircase, making upper levels inaccessible for wheelchairs or strollers.

Can I see the tidal bore from the pagoda?

Yes, the upper galleries offer excellent views of the Qiantang River. The bore is best seen during the autumn equinox (around September 15–20) when it is highest.

Are there English signs or guides available?

There is basic English signage at the entrance and key points. Our private guides provide full historical context and can translate inscriptions for a richer experience.