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The Sizhou Temple Pagoda is located in the northern section of Xinchun Road in Tanghe County. It is one of the tallest and largest ancient pagodas in Henan Province. It is known as the "Sizhou Temple Pagoda is 18 feet away from the sky". It is the first batch of provincial cultural relics protection units in Henan Province and was listed as the sixth batch of national key cultural relics protection units in 2006.
Sizhou Temple Pagoda, also known as Sishui Pagoda and Bodhi Temple Pagoda, is an important building of the former Bodhi Temple, formerly known as Sizhouyuan. Sizhou Temple Pagoda is an octagonal ten-story imitation wooden pavilion-style brick pagoda and is a national key cultural relic protection unit.
The Sizhou Temple Pagoda, also known as the Bodhi Temple Pagoda, was built in 1095, the second year of the Shaosheng reign of the Song Dynasty. It was located within the grounds of the former Bodhi Temple, which no longer exists. A brick pagoda imitating a wooden structure, it features an octagonal pyramidal shape, 11 levels, and stands 49.75 meters tall. The first level has a diameter of 7.6 meters, and the base is 5.86 meters long. Inside, the pagoda features a brick core column, surrounded by spiral steps leading to the summit. Fifty-nine statues of Sakyamuni Buddha are embedded in the outer walls of the second level, while six Buddha statues, each 21 centimeters tall, sit atop a lotus pedestal. Eighty carved dragon heads adorn the tower's wings and flanks, suspended 33 centimeters from the tower's exterior. Each dragon holds an iron ring within its mouth, and beneath it hangs a wind chime. When the wind blows, the bell rings, creating a melodious Sanskrit sound. The pagoda's roof features eight spires, covered in green glazed tiles, lotus flowers, and a covered alms bowl. Sometimes "white smoke" (which is a collection of midges) emerges from the top of the Sizhou Temple Pagoda, which is called "Ancient Pagoda Lingyan" and was rated as one of the eight major scenic spots in Tanghe in the Qing Dynasty.
The warm temperate monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
Sizhou Temple, located within the courtyard of the Pagoda Hotel on the northern section of Xinchun Road in Tanghe County, is an octagonal, ten-story brick pagoda imitating a wooden pavilion. It is the tallest extant pagoda in Henan Province and was located within the grounds of the former Bodhi Temple, which no longer exists. The Sizhou Temple Pagoda, an octagonal pyramid-shaped brick pagoda imitating a wooden pavilion, boasts 11 levels and was a truly monumental undertaking in ancient times. It's said to be "18 feet above the sky," making it a great place to ascend for panoramic views.
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Sizhou Temple Pagoda is an ancient Buddhist structure in Nanyang, Henan. It represents historical architecture and religious culture, serving as a landmark of local heritage and spiritual importance.
Located in Nanyang city, Henan province. Visitors can reach it via taxi, local buses, or walking if staying nearby. Private cars and ride-hailing services are convenient options.
Open generally from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather for exploring.
The entrance fee is usually low (around 10–30 RMB). Tickets can be purchased at the site; online booking may be available during peak periods.
Advance booking is generally not required. For weekends, holidays, or large group visits, booking a few days in advance is advisable.
Approximately 1–2 hours, depending on interest in the pagoda and surrounding temple area.
Guided tours are occasionally available in Chinese; audio guides are limited and may not be provided in other languages.
Enter through the main gate, explore the pagoda and temple courtyards, walk around gardens, and end at scenic viewpoints for photography.
Night visits and light shows are generally not offered. Special tours may be arranged on request.
Weekdays and mornings are least crowded. Weekends and holidays may see higher visitor numbers.
Basic facilities include toilets, small snack vendors, and resting areas. Food and water are limited; bringing your own is recommended.
Access is generally suitable for children and elderly on flat areas. Some parts may have steps or uneven terrain, limiting wheelchair access.
Cash is commonly accepted. Some vendors may support mobile payments like WeChat or Alipay.
Nearby local restaurants offer Henan cuisine, snacks, and small cafes close to the temple area.
Vegetarian options are available at nearby eateries. Vegan and halal options may be limited and require inquiry.
Several hotels and guesthouses in Nanyang city are within a 10–20 minute drive from the pagoda.
Souvenir shops nearby sell postcards, religious artifacts, local handicrafts, and pagoda-themed items.
Taxi or ride-hailing services are most convenient for continuing to other city attractions. Local buses are also available for nearby destinations.
