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Climb to the top of the pagoda for panoramic views of Fuzhou, explore the surrounding gardens, and take in the historical architecture. It’s also a peaceful spot for reflection and photography.
The Shengshou Pagoda is located on Nanshan Mountain (now within Zheng He Park) in the urban area of Changle County, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province. Construction began in 1096 AD, the third year of the Shaosheng reign of the Song Dynasty , with contributions from Lin Ang, a local resident, and donations from Jingxiu, a monk at Fajian Temple.
During Zheng He's seven voyages to the West in the early Ming Dynasty, his fleet always stopped at Taiping Harbor in Changle to await the monsoon. This tower served as both a lookout tower from which Zheng He could gaze down upon the harbor and a navigational beacon for his fleet entering and leaving the harbor. The tower stands 27.4 meters tall, has seven floors and an octagonal structure, and is constructed of granite in the style of a wooden pavilion.
The pagoda's interior is a hollow chamber with an arched roof and L-shaped stone steps. The pagoda walls feature relief carvings of a Buddha seated on a lotus flower, the base of the pagoda features a Sumeru pedestal, and the corners are carved with Hercules. The eight sides are adorned with stone carvings of lions, peonies, and other figures, and the eaves are decorated with brackets. Under the west eaves of the second floor is a plaque inscribed with the words " Shengshou Pagoda . "
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Shengshou Pagoda is an ancient Buddhist structure, built during the Tang Dynasty, and serves as an important symbol of Fuzhou's cultural and religious heritage. It has stood the test of time, representing the city’s devotion to Buddhism.
The pagoda is located in the eastern part of Fuzhou, easily accessible by taxi or bus. The nearest metro station is about 2 km away, so a short taxi ride or walk is necessary to reach the site.
The pagoda is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
The entrance fee is around 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the site, but it’s best to buy them upon arrival as online purchasing options may not be available.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you plan to visit during a public holiday or peak season. It’s fine to purchase tickets on the day of your visit.
About 1 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore the pagoda and its surroundings, including a climb to the top and time to enjoy the view and the gardens.
The main highlight is the pagoda itself, but also the peaceful gardens surrounding it. The panoramic view from the top is a must-see for visitors.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides may be offered in Chinese. English-speaking guides are rare but may be available upon request, especially for group tours.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the pagoda, offering panoramic views of Fuzhou and the nearby landscape. The pagoda’s intricate carvings and architectural details also make for great photography opportunities.
Start with exploring the garden area, then climb to the top of the pagoda for the best views. Afterward, take time to appreciate the architectural details and enjoy a peaceful walk around the site.
Night visits are not available, and there are no regular light shows. However, special tours may be organized for groups during cultural festivals or events.
The pagoda is less crowded on weekdays, especially in the early morning hours. Weekends and public holidays can see more visitors, so visiting during off-peak hours is ideal for a quieter experience.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are no major food outlets on-site, but you can find local snacks and souvenirs in small shops near the entrance.
The pagoda itself has steep stairs, which may be difficult for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. However, the surrounding area is accessible, with paved paths and seating areas for rest.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted in smaller shops.
There are local restaurants and cafes nearby offering Fujianese cuisine, including seafood dishes and noodle soups. For a more traditional experience, look for small local eateries in the area.
Vegetarian food is commonly available in the area, though vegan and halal options may be more limited. It’s advisable to inquire with local restaurants for specific dietary needs.
There are several hotels near Shengshou Pagoda, including budget options like 7 Days Inn and mid-range choices such as the Fuzhou Marriott Hotel.
Nearby attractions include Fuzhou West Lake Park, Xichan Temple, and the Fuzhou Museum. These can all be easily combined into a day trip with Shengshou Pagoda.
Souvenir shops near the pagoda sell traditional crafts, tea, and small trinkets such as porcelain figurines and calligraphy items.
Taxis, local buses, and rental cars are the best options for continuing your trip after visiting the pagoda. Fuzhou’s city center is easily reachable by taxi.
