At almost 150 feet (45 metres) tall, Baochu Pagoda is one of the most recognizable figures on Hangzhou's skyline. The grey, slender monument juts out from the trees on Precious Stone Hill. The hill lies on the north bank of the West Lake and provides excellent views of the glistening waters to the south.
The name Baochu, means “protect Chu.” It is said that Chu was Qian Chu, the last king of Wuyue in 978 AD. The legend tells that when Chu went on a trip to Kaifeng in central China and didn't return for some time, one of the king's ministers built the temple. From here, Chu's subjects could pray for their master's safe return.
The hexagonal pagoda you see now isn't the original. The earliest building was nine-stories tall, which was two stories higher than the current structure. It was also partially constructed from wood, whereas now the pagoda is made entirely of brick. Since the original, many pagodas have been built on this spot, only to be destroyed. Baochu Pagoda was last reconstructed in 1933.
Stock up on food and drink supplies in Hangzhou and walk out to the West Lake area. Ascend Precious Stone Hill via dirt paths or choose to take the cement stairs that are accessible from various points at the base of the hill.
The pagoda has no internal staircase and cannot be climbed but the base offers superb views and is a great spot to stop for a picnic. After lunch, continue to hike through the leafy trails of Precious Stone Hill. Look out for the rhyolite and tuff rocks, which glint in the sunlight and give the hill its name.
Baochu Pagoda is never closed, but save your visit for a day when the weather is dry and the sky is clear. That way, the paths won't be slippery and you will get a better view. Come back at night when the pagoda is illuminated.
