Seven Star Pavilion

Introducing Seven Star Pavilion

The Seven Star Pavilion, located above Zilai Cave on Jade Emperor Mountain, is home to seven jars dating back to the Yongzheng period of the Qing Dynasty, arranged like the " Big Dipper . " Legend has it that due to widespread fires in Hangzhou, a pavilion and jars were built on the hillside of Jade Emperor Mountain to extinguish fires.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: within 20 minutes

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Seven Star Pavilion

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

Seven Star Pavilion is a historical landmark in Hangzhou, originally built during the Tang Dynasty. It is named after the Seven Stars of the Big Dipper constellation, which the pavilion aligns with. The pavilion has served as a place of poetic inspiration and cultural significance over centuries, and it offers spectacular views of West Lake and the surrounding city.

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

Seven Star Pavilion is located on the northern shore of West Lake in Hangzhou. It is accessible by taxi, public bus, or walking from nearby areas like the West Lake Scenic Area. Visitors can also take a boat ride across West Lake to reach the pavilion.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Seven Star Pavilion is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially during spring and autumn when the weather is most pleasant. Sunset visits offer stunning views over the lake and city.

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

The entrance fee for the Seven Star Pavilion is typically around ¥30 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local tourism websites. Some tours or combined tickets for West Lake attractions may include access to the pavilion.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, especially during the off-peak season. However, it is recommended to book tickets ahead of time during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid long lines and ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Seven Star Pavilion typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows enough time to explore the pavilion itself, enjoy the views, and take a stroll around the surrounding park and gardens. If combined with a visit to West Lake, you may need more time.

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

• The pavilion’s upper platform, which offers stunning views of West Lake and the city.
• The surrounding gardens, which provide a serene setting for relaxation and photography.
• The historical inscriptions and artifacts inside the pavilion that reflect its cultural significance.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and English-speaking guides may be requested in advance. Audio guides are also available for rent in multiple languages, including English, and offer detailed information about the pavilion's history and cultural context.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The view from the top of the Seven Star Pavilion, where you can capture sweeping shots of West Lake and the city skyline.
• The perspective from the park near the pavilion, where you can photograph the pavilion with the lake and mountains in the background.
• The boat ride on West Lake provides another excellent vantage point for photographing the pavilion from the water.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking through the gardens surrounding the pavilion, then ascend to the top for panoramic views of West Lake. Afterward, explore the interior, taking time to appreciate the cultural significance of the pavilion and its historical context. Conclude with a peaceful walk around the nearby West Lake area.

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

Night visits are not typically available for the pavilion itself, but you can enjoy the pavilion’s exterior and the surrounding area lit up at night. Special light shows and events may be held on West Lake, which can complement your visit to the pavilion during the evening hours.

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

The pavilion can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, particularly in the spring and autumn. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning on weekdays, avoiding peak tourist seasons such as Chinese New Year and Golden Week.

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

There are restrooms, small shops, and food stalls available near the Seven Star Pavilion. Visitors can also find water fountains and benches for resting in the park area. For a more extensive selection of food and shopping, head to the nearby West Lake scenic area.

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

The Seven Star Pavilion is located on a hill, and while the park area is accessible to all visitors, elderly or disabled visitors may find it challenging to reach the pavilion. There are alternative transportation options like taxis or golf carts that can help visitors navigate the area more easily.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted at the pavilion and surrounding areas. Credit cards are also commonly accepted at larger shops and restaurants nearby.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Several cafes and restaurants are located near West Lake, offering local Zhejiang cuisine, tea, and snacks. Some options provide outdoor seating with views of the lake, which makes for a scenic dining experience.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some of the restaurants around West Lake. Halal food options may be found at specific restaurants catering to Muslim visitors, though they are limited in this area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Shangri-La Hotel Hangzhou, located near West Lake, offers luxury accommodations with easy access to Seven Star Pavilion.
• There are several mid-range and budget hotels in the West Lake area, including the Grand Hyatt Hangzhou and Courtyard by Marriott.

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

• West Lake itself, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit for its picturesque scenery.
• Lingyin Temple, a renowned Buddhist temple with beautiful surroundings, is also nearby.
• Leifeng Pagoda, another historical site offering great views of West Lake, is a short distance away.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near Seven Star Pavilion sell a variety of items, including West Lake-themed gifts, traditional Chinese handicrafts, silk products, local tea, and postcards featuring scenic views of Hangzhou.

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

• Taxis and ride-sharing services like Didi are available for onward travel to other attractions or your hotel.
• Public buses and the Hangzhou Metro offer easy access to other parts of the city, including the nearby attractions of West Lake.