Dear traveler, welcome to Hangzhou—a city steeped in poetry, mist, and the magic of lakeside life. Beyond the elegance of West Lake lies the ancient Liuhe Pagoda 六和塔 (Literally Six Harmonies Pagoda), rising proudly above the Qiantang River like a silent guardian of centuries past.
This Liuhe Pagoda travel guide will take you through its legends, views, and hidden corners. Whether you’re drawn to ancient architecture or peaceful river walks, this pagoda promises a journey rich with history, harmony, and heart.
1. How to Get to Liuhe Pagoda & Entry Ticket Info
Getting to the Six Harmonies Pagoda was surprisingly easy—and scenic, too. I started from Hangzhou’s city center, near West Lake. First, I hopped on Metro Line 4 and rode it toward Puyan (浦沿方向), getting off at Shuichengqiao Station (水澄桥站). From Exit B, signs led me straight to the nearby bus stop.
Next came the fun part. I caught Bus 314, which took me three stops to “Liuhe Pagoda Station.” (六和塔站). It was quick—only about 8 minutes. As soon as I stepped off, I looked up. There it was—Six Harmonies Pagoda, standing tall on Moon Wheel Hill, watching over the Qiantang River like an old guardian.
From the bus stop, it took just a short 3-minute walk to the ticket gate. Entry costs 20 RMB, plus 10 RMB if you want to climb the pagoda. They accept cash and Alipay, and even offer English maps.
Prefer something else? You can bike from the metro (2 km, 10 mins) or take a Didi taxi for 10–15 RMB. Walking is also possible—about 30 minutes along the river, under shady trees.
However you arrive, the journey itself is part of the experience.
2. Liuhe Pagoda: History and Legends
Standing before the Liuhe Pagoda, I could almost feel time slowing down. This isn’t just a pagoda—it’s a thousand-year-old guardian, quietly watching the tides of the Qiantang River.
Built in 970 AD during the Northern Song Dynasty, the Six Harmonies Pagoda was commissioned by King Qian Hongchu of the Wuyue Kingdom. His goal? To calm the powerful, often destructive river tides. The name “Liuhe” comes from a Buddhist teaching about harmony—of body, speech, mind, and understanding. Some also interpret it as representing the harmony of the six directions: north, south, east, west, heaven, and earth.
Like many ancient structures, the pagoda suffered through wars and disasters. However, it never truly fell. The solid stone core (7 storeys ) we see today was rebuilt during the Southern Song era (1156). The striking outside wooden pagoda with eaves (13 storeys)—were added in the Qing Dynasty (1900). Together, they form a towering beauty nearly 60 meters high, crowned with over 104 iron wind bells that chime in the breeze.
Interestingly, Emperor Qianlong (25 September 1711 – 7 February 1799) visited this site not once, but seven times. He even inscribed plaques for each floor, leaving poetry carved into stone. That says a lot.
Then, there’s the legend. Long ago, the tides here drowned farmlands and homes. A brave young boy named Liuhe tossed stones into the river every day, hoping to tame its rage. Eventually, the tides calmed. In his honor, the villagers built this pagoda.
So when you visit, pause a moment. You’re not just seeing architecture—you’re walking through myth, memory, and a millennium of resilience.
3. Liuhe Pagoda Walking Route & Scenic Highlights
Exploring the Six Harmonies Pagoda Scenic Area felt like stepping into a living scroll. The site has four main sections: the pagoda itself, Kaihua Temple, the stele pavilion, and Liuhe Garden. In addition, don’t miss the Chinese Famous Pagodas Garden and the echoing Liuhe Bell. I followed a simple Liuhe Pagoda walking route, spending around 2–3 hours wandering, pausing often. Each turn revealed quiet beauty, centuries-old stories, and sweeping views of river and sky.
1) Liuhe Pagoda Area 六和塔区
The heart of the Six Harmonies Pagoda Scenic Area is, of course, the pagoda itself. Rising almost 60 meters high, this octagonal tower shines with red wooden structure and sweeping eaves. Its design blends Song and Qing architecture, and in the sunlight, it glows with timeless beauty.
My Liuhe Pagoda walking route began at the base. I stepped inside and started climbing the narrow spiral staircase. Each floor felt like a pause in history, offering something new.
On the first level, I found a stone stele carved with Emperor Qianlong’s poems. Next, the second floor displayed Buddhist relics and delicate carvings. Then, the third opened to river views, along with a small exhibit on the tides of the Qiantang.
By the fourth floor, I discovered panels retelling the legend of Liuhe. Meanwhile, the fifth floor revealed a perfect angle of the Qiantang River Bridge. I lingered there with my camera.
Climbing higher, the sixth level offered a quiet rest stop. Finally, I reached the seventh floor. The view stopped me cold. The Qiantang stretched like silver ribbon, the bridge buzzed with life, and if the tides roared, the whole world seemed to move.
Up there, history whispered, and the river answered.
2) Liuhe Stele Pavilion Area 六和塔碑亭区
Following the Six Harmonies Pagoda walking path north, I saw the Stele Pavilion. The space felt intimate, like a hidden garden. Several stone pavilions stood quietly, their inscriptions telling of Liuhe Pagoda’s restorations and visitors through the centuries.
I paused at Emperor Qianlong’s calligraphy, still elegant after so long. Next, I read the English translations, which helped bring the words alive. Meanwhile, soft grass and shady trees created the perfect place to rest. It was also a peaceful spot for photos and quiet reflection.
In the Liuhe Stele Pavilion Area, I discovered the Bell Pavilion in the northern tip. A massive bronze bell hung inside, waiting for visitors. I joined others in striking it, and the deep sound rolled outward, echoing across the Qiantang River.
Meanwhile, the waves answered with their own rhythm. The harmony between bell and tide felt timeless. In addition, locals believe the sound carries blessings far and wide. I paused, made a wish, and let the lingering chime settle into my heart.
3) Liuhe Garden Area 六和塔苑区
As I continued along the Liuhe Pagoda walking route, I reached the northwest areaof the park –Liuhe Garden . Here stood the Chinese Famous Pagodas Garden, a miniature world of towers. Famous pagodas from across China appeared in perfect scale models—Leifeng Pagoda from Hangzhou, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda from Xi’an, and the towering Yingxian Wooden Pagoda.
Each had signs in Chinese and English, so I could learn their stories while strolling. Meanwhile, the garden offered plenty of photo spots and a fun, cultural pause.
4) Kaihua Temple Area 开化寺区
Walking back to the south t from Liuhe Pagoda, I reached what remains of Kaihua Temple. Once a grand monastery beside the tower, today it is only a quiet ruin. The layout of “tower on the left, temple on the right” still lingers in the stones.
I saw ancient Song Dynasty column bases and platforms, silent witnesses to centuries of change. Meanwhile, the site’s simplicity contrasted with the pagoda’s height, reminding me how history fades but never disappears. Now, the ruins host the cozy Liuhe Teahouse, where visitors pause and reflect.
5) Liuhe Teahouse 六和茗轩
To end my Liuhe Pagoda walking tour, I sat down drinking tea at the Liuhe Teahouse in the old Kaihua Temple site. Here stood the charming Liuhe Teahouse, tucked beside the mountain gate. From its windows, I could see the Qiantang River shimmering in the distance.
I ordered a pot of Longjing tea, Hangzhou’s pride, and let its fragrance fill the air. Each sip felt calm and grounding. Meanwhile, the quiet garden framed the moment perfectly. Resting here, I realized my journey through Liuhe Pagoda had ended in peace.
4. Nearby Attractions Around Liuhe Pagoda
A visit to Liuhe Pagoda rarely ends at the pagoda itself. The area is rich with history, nature, and culture, so I always recommend setting aside half a day, or even a full day, to explore.
First, from the top of the Six Harmonies Pagoda, I spotted the Qiantang River Bridge (钱塘江大桥) stretching across the water. It was China’s first double-deck road-and-rail bridge, designed by engineer Mao Yisheng. Later, I walked down to the small memorial museum beneath the bridge. Free to enter, it displayed old photos, blueprints, and scale models—fascinating for anyone curious about modern engineering.
Next, only 3 kilometers away, I visited Tiger Spring Park (虎跑公园). The spring water here is famously pure, perfect for brewing Hangzhou’s Dragon Well tea. I watched locals fill bottles, while I wandered among tea fields and quiet temple courtyards.
In addition, White Pagoda Park (白塔公园) offered a glimpse into Wuyue Kingdom history. Its ancient carvings were stunning, and the leafy paths made it a peaceful stop.
Finally, I couldn’t resist a short hike to Nine Creeks (九溪烟树). Tea hills, gentle streams, and winding trails made it one of my favorite Hangzhou walks.
5. Liuhe Pagoda Travel Tips
Before visiting the Six Harmonies Pagoda, I picked up a few tips that made the day smoother. Let me share them with you.
First, language. Most signs have English translations, but staff mainly speak Chinese. A translation app or phrasebook helps a lot.
Next, clothing. Wear comfortable shoes—the climb has about 200 steps. In summer, bring sunscreen and a hat. However, in winter, rain is common, so a light raincoat is wise.
Safety matters too. The stairways inside Liuhe Pagoda are narrow. Hold the railing, take your time, and mind your belongings, especially when leaning out for photos.
Meanwhile, remember respect. The pagoda and nearby temples are heritage sites. Keep your voice low, and avoid touching statues or relics.
As for timing, spring and autumn are perfect—cool, colorful, and lively. If you’re lucky enough to visit around the Mid-Autumn Festival, check the tide schedule. Watching the Qiantang tidal bore from the pagoda is unforgettable.
Finally, don’t miss the ritual bell. Strike it three times—locals say it brings happiness, prosperity, and long life. A simple yet meaningful tradition to end your journey.
Writing this Liuhe Pagoda Travel Guide felt like reliving my journey. The Six Harmonies Pagoda is more than stone and wood—it’s history, legend, and nature woven together. From climbing its winding steps to hearing the great bell echo across the Qiantang, every moment stays with me. Add nearby gems like Tiger Spring and Nine Creeks, and the trip becomes unforgettable. I hope you find the same magic here, and carry it home in your memories.
🌟Further Reading
Hangzhou Travel Guide: Map, Highlights, Food, Transport & Tips
How to Book Hangzhou Attraction Tickets: All You Need to Know
West Lake, Hangzhou: Walking Route, Map & Must-See Highlights
Feilai Feng Grottoes: Map, Walking Route & Highlights
Baoshi Mountain: Hiking Route, Map & Must-See Highlights
Xiling Seal Art Society: Map, Walking Route & Highlights
Hupao Spring: Walking Route, Map & Must-See Highlights
Liuhe Pagoda: Map, Walking Route and Highlights
How to Visit Hangzhou – Your Complete Guide
The Best Hangzhou Tour Itinerary
Best Places to See Fall Colors in Hangzhou
