Cishou Pagoda

Introducing Cishou Pagoda

Cishou Pagoda, located at the summit, is a symbol of Jinshan Mountain. Standing approximately 36 meters tall, it is a brick and wood structure with seven levels and eight sides. A spiral wooden staircase ascends directly to the summit. Leaning over the railing, one can take in the panoramic view of Zhenjiang City, the mighty river flowing eastward, and the mountains winding into the horizon. Beneath the pagoda, the temple's treasures—the Zhou Dynasty tripod, the Jinshan map, the bronze drum, and the jade belt—are located. These are collectively known as the "Four Treasures."

Jinshan originally had two pagodas, but both were abandoned in the early Ming Dynasty. In 1472, the Japanese painter Sesshū visited Jinshan and painted "Longyou Zen Temple on Jinshan Mountain in the Heart of the Yangtze River in the Tang Dynasty," depicting two pagodas facing north and south. During the reign of Emperor Muzong of the Ming Dynasty, the monk Liaoming rebuilt a pagoda on the site of the North Pagoda, naming it Cishou Pagoda. This pagoda was destroyed in war during the reign of Emperor Xianfeng of the Qing Dynasty.

During the reign of Emperor Guangxu, the abbot of Jinshan Temple, Yinru, worked tirelessly for five years and, with the financial support of Liu Kunyi, the Governor-General of Liangjiang, finally fulfilled his dream of building a pagoda. Coincidentally, that year marked Empress Dowager Cixi's 60th birthday, so Liu Kunyi congratulated her by inscribing the four characters "Heaven and Earth Are of the Same Age" (天天地同年) in the handwriting of Li Yuanan, an eight-year-old boy from Hunan, on the pagoda's flower wall. In his poem "Jinshan," Wang Anshi of the Song Dynasty praised the pagoda: "The towers are built on layers of stone, and windows on all four walls open to the wind. Suddenly, I see a bird soaring above the ground, and I'm startled to find myself in mid-air."

Climate and best time to travel

The climate is subtropical monsoon; Cishou Pagoda is located on the top of the mountain and is the symbol of Jinshan. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The exterior architectural style of Cishou Pagoda and the surrounding scenery are no longer open to the public for cultural relic protection.

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

8 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Cishou Pagoda

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Cishou Pagoda, also known as the "Pagoda of Compassion," was built during the Tang Dynasty and is a symbol of Zhenjiang's rich Buddhist heritage. The pagoda's design is a classic example of Chinese architecture, with intricate carvings and inscriptions that tell stories from the region's past.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The pagoda is located in Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, along the Yangtze River. It can be accessed by taxi or bus from the city center, and walking from nearby attractions is also feasible.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Cishou Pagoda is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon, especially on weekdays, to avoid crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the pagoda or online through the official tourism website of Zhenjiang.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is advisable during peak tourist seasons or weekends. Booking a few days ahead is recommended during busy periods.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Cishou Pagoda typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing time to explore the pagoda, the temple grounds, and enjoy the view from the top.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The view from the top of the pagoda offering a panoramic vista of Zhenjiang and the Yangtze River.
• The intricate carvings and ancient inscriptions on the pagoda’s walls.
• The peaceful temple grounds surrounding the pagoda, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in Mandarin and English are also offered, but it’s best to check availability in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of Cishou Pagoda provides the best panoramic views of the city and river.
• The nearby riverbank offers great angles for photographing the pagoda, especially at sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the temple grounds, then climb the pagoda for panoramic views. Afterward, spend some time enjoying the peaceful environment and photography opportunities along the riverbank.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, Cishou Pagoda does not offer light shows or special night visits. However, the pagoda and surrounding area are beautifully illuminated at night, making for great evening photography.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The pagoda can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays, particularly in the off-season.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public restrooms are available on the temple grounds.
• There are small food stalls offering refreshments near the entrance.
• Rest areas are available around the pagoda for relaxation.
• There are souvenir shops selling items related to the pagoda and local culture.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The pagoda has a steep climb, making it challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. However, the surrounding temple grounds are accessible to all.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely used at the entrance and shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local eateries near the pagoda, offering traditional Chinese food. For a more extensive range of dining options, head towards Zhenjiang city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local eateries near the pagoda. Halal food is not commonly found in the immediate area but can be found in Zhenjiang city center.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Zhenjiang Grand Hotel offers comfortable accommodations near the pagoda.
• Budget options are available in Zhenjiang city, a short taxi ride away.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Zhenjiang Museum, showcasing local history and culture.
• Jinshan Temple, another historic temple offering scenic views and cultural experiences.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops near the pagoda sell local crafts, Buddhist-themed items, and postcards featuring the pagoda.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis are available for further travel, and the Zhenjiang Railway Station is a convenient transportation hub for exploring other destinations in the region.