At almost 45-metres (150 feet) tall, the Baochu Pagoda looks over the city of Hangzhou from its hilltop site. The grey, elegantly slender shrine rises above the trees at the top of Precious Stone Hill. From this vantage point, on the north bank of the West Lake, you will get excellent views of the sparkling waters to the south.
The name Baochu translates literally to “protect Chu”. Local legend has it that the Chu to whom the tower’s name refers was King Qian Chu, the last ruler of Wuyue in the year 978. Chu, the story goes, left Hangzhou on a trip to the city of Kaifeng and did not return for many months. In his absence, one of Chu’s loyal ministers had the temple built so that Chu’s devoted subjects could pray for their ruler’s safe return.
The Baochu Pagoda has a tumultuous past. Over the centuries, several pagodas have been constructed at the Baochu site, only to be destroyed. The original pagoda, made partially of wood, was nine stories tall. The pagoda that visitors can see today was reconstructed in 1933. This hexagonal structure is seven stories tall and is made entirely of stone.
Purchase picnic supplies in Hangzhou and then head over to the West Lake Area. To hike up Precious Stone Hill, take the cement stairs or any one of the numerous dirt paths that begin at the base of the hill.
Although the pagoda cannot be climbed, visitors can have lunch at the pagoda’s base and take in the stunning views. Afterwards, explore the network of trails on Precious Stone Hill. As you walk, keep watch for rhyolite and tuff rocks, which sparkle in sun. These gemlike stones are the basis for the hill’s name.
Baochu Pagoda is always open. Try to visit when the weather is dry and clear, so that the paths will not be slippery and so that you will get a superior view. Return to the pagoda at night to see it illuminated.
