Leifeng Pagoda Sunset

Introducing Leifeng Sunset

Leifeng Pagoda Sunset, located on Xizhao Mountain in front of Jingci Temple in the south of West Lake, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, is one of the ten scenic spots of West Lake. It is famous for the sunset glow coating the pagoda and the Buddha's light shining everywhere.

Leifeng Pagoda, once a landmark of West Lake, is best known for its role in the epic story "The Legend of the White Snake." In ancient times, Leifeng Pagoda and Baochu Pagoda on Beishan Mountain, one to the south and one to the north, faced each other across the lake. The saying "Leifeng resembles an old monk, Baochu resembles a beautiful woman" led to the creation of a beautiful scene on West Lake: "One lake reflects the twin pagodas, facing each other from north to south."

Whenever the sun sets, the tower's shadow stretches across the sky, creating a unique scene, hence the name "Leifeng Sunset".

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 1 hour

Tickets

40 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

November 1st - March 15th

8:00 AM - 5:30 PM (Ticket sales stop at 5:00 PM, park closes at 5:30 PM)

March 16-April 30

8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Ticket sales stop at 6:30 PM, park closes at 7:00 PM)

May 1st - October 31st

8:00 AM - 8:00 PM (ticket sales stop at 7:30 PM, park closes at 8:00 PM)

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Most Popular FAQs for Leifeng Pagoda Sunset

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

Leifeng Pagoda, originally built in 975 AD, is a historic Buddhist structure associated with the legend of the White Snake. It is a cultural symbol of Hangzhou and an iconic landmark overlooking West Lake.

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

• Located on the southern bank of West Lake in Hangzhou, Zhejiang.
• Take Hangzhou Metro Line 1 to Wulin Square Station and transfer to local buses heading to the pagoda area.
• Taxi or rideshare from central Hangzhou is about 15–20 minutes.
• Walking paths along West Lake connect the pagoda to nearby attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Late afternoon is ideal to catch the sunset.
• Spring and autumn provide the best weather and visibility.

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

• Entrance fee: around 40 RMB per adult.
• Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via official online portals.

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

Advance booking is recommended on weekends or public holidays, typically 1–2 days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• 1–2 hours to explore the pagoda and its surroundings.
• Include additional time if taking boat rides or walking around West Lake.

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

• The top viewing platform of Leifeng Pagoda.
• Exhibits explaining the legend of the White Snake.
• Lakeside paths and gardens around the pagoda.

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

• Audio guides and guided tours are usually available in Mandarin; English guides may require prior arrangement.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Top of Leifeng Pagoda overlooking West Lake.
• Lakeside trails capturing the sunset with the pagoda silhouette.
• Boat rides on West Lake for reflections of the pagoda.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the entrance, visit the exhibition hall, climb the pagoda, enjoy the panoramic views, then walk along the lakeside paths.

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

• Night visits are limited; special evening illuminations of the pagoda occasionally occur, especially during festivals.

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

• Popular and can be crowded, especially at sunset.
• Weekdays and early afternoons are less crowded.

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

• Restrooms near the entrance and pagoda base.
• Small cafes and snack stalls nearby.
• Benches and shaded areas for resting along the lakeside.

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

• Main paths and lower levels are accessible.
• Steep stairs to the top may be challenging for the elderly or those with mobility issues.
• Children can enjoy exhibitions and lakeside walks safely.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Cash, mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay), and credit cards are widely accepted for tickets and nearby services.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Lakeside cafes and restaurants offering Hangzhou cuisine near the pagoda.
• Tea houses along West Lake with scenic views.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

• Vegetarian options are common at local restaurants.
• Halal food may require prior inquiry or visiting nearby specialty restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Many hotels in Hangzhou city center within 10–15 minutes by taxi.
• Guesthouses and boutique hotels around West Lake provide convenient access.

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

• West Lake scenic area and gardens.
• Broken Bridge, Su Causeway, and other West Lake cultural sites.
• Lingyin Temple and nearby tea plantations.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Postcards, miniature pagoda models, local teas, and handicrafts.
• Traditional Hangzhou embroidery and art pieces.

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

• Taxi or rideshare back to Hangzhou city center or nearby attractions.
• Walking along West Lake paths to other cultural sites.
• Public buses or metro for longer trips around Hangzhou.