Leifeng Pagoda
Zhejiang Sheng
Leifeng Pagoda is a historic and culturally significant five-story, eight-sided tower situated on Sunset Hill south of West Lake in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. Originally constructed in 975 AD during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period by King Zhongyi of Wuyue for his favorite concubine, the pagoda was notable for its brick and wood construction with a brick base. It gained fame as one of the Ten Scenes of West Lake and is prominently featured in the Chinese folk tale, the Legend of the White Snake, where the pagoda plays a pivotal role. Over centuries, the structure suffered damage from war and natural decay, including a fire set by Japanese pirates during the Ming dynasty that destroyed its wooden elements. The pagoda ultimately collapsed in 1924 due to structural weakening and brick theft driven by superstitions. In 2002, a modern reconstruction was completed, incorporating a steel structure with copper parts, elevators, and modern amenities, while preserving the original base and artifacts found in its underground chamber. Today, Leifeng Pagoda stands as a blend of historical legacy and contemporary engineering, attracting numerous visitors who come to admire its architecture and panoramic views of West Lake.
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Consiglio: The best time to visit Leifeng Pagoda is during late afternoon to enjoy the famous sunset views over West Lake. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long waits. The reconstructed pagoda offers modern amenities including elevators and escalators, making the climb accessible. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Early morning visits can provide a quieter experience with fewer crowds.
Fatti interessanti
- •Leifeng Pagoda was one of the Ten Scenes of West Lake, celebrated in classical Chinese art and poetry.
- •The pagoda is famously associated with the Legend of the White Snake, a beloved Chinese folk tale.
- •The collapse of the original pagoda in 1924 inspired literary works by prominent figures such as Lu Xun, Xu Zhimo, and Yu Pingbo.
- •The reconstructed pagoda contains a steel framework weighing 1400 tonnes and 200 tonnes of copper parts, blending traditional design with modern engineering.
- •The original base and artifacts from the underground chamber have been preserved and are displayed within the pagoda.
Storia
The original Leifeng Pagoda was built in 975 AD by King Zhongyi of Wuyue during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period to house Buddhist relics and pray for prosperity.
It was damaged by war and fire multiple times, notably during the Ming dynasty when Japanese pirates burned its wooden parts, leaving only the brick core.
The pagoda gradually fell into disrepair due to brick theft motivated by superstitions, leading to its collapse in 1924.
Efforts to rebuild began in the late 20th century, culminating in a modern reconstruction completed in 2002 that preserved the original base and incorporated modern structural elements.
Guida del luogo
Original Base and Artifacts975
The preserved original brick base of the pagoda and the archaeological artifacts found in the underground chamber offer insight into the pagoda's ancient construction and religious significance.
Pagoda Structure and Elevators2002
The modern pagoda features a 1400-tonne steel structure with copper cladding, equipped with four sightseeing elevators and two autonomous escalators for visitor convenience.
Sunset Hill Location
Situated on Sunset Hill south of West Lake, the pagoda offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes, especially stunning at dusk.
Contatto
Telefono: 0571 8798 2111