Huizhou Sizhou Pagoda

Huizhou Sizhou Pagoda

Huizhou Sizhou Pagoda is a cultural relic protection unit of Guangdong Province.

Also known as the Jade Pagoda, it is located on West Mountain in Huizhou West Lake and is the oldest structure on the lake. Originally built during the reign of Emperor Zhongzong of the Tang Dynasty to commemorate the monk Sengjia of Sizhou Dashi, it was referred to as the Great Sage Pagoda by the Northern Song Dynasty literary figure Su Shi when he was exiled to Huizhou. In the 42nd year of the Jiajing era of the Ming Dynasty (1584 AD), the pagoda was destroyed, and in the early Wanli era, it was rebuilt as a pavilion. In the 46th year of the Wanli era (1618 AD), it was reconstructed as a pagoda. When the bright moon rises and the cool breeze ripples across the lake, the shimmering light of the water reflects off the Sizhou Pagoda standing on West Mountain, casting its shadow upon the lake. This inspired the poetic lines by Su Shi (known as the "Poet Immortal" or "Slope Sage"): “At midnight the mountain gives birth to the moon; the Jade Pagoda lies gently on the rippling waves,” creating the scenic wonder admired by all visitors to West Lake — the “Jade Pagoda Ripples.” Legend has it that during the Longshuo era of the Tang Dynasty, the eminent monk Sengjia from the Western Regions came to China and later passed away in Chang’an. Emperor Zhongzong built a pagoda for him in Sizhou. As a result, similar pagodas dedicated to Sengjia were constructed across various regions, hence the name Sizhou Pagoda. During the Song Dynasty, when Su Dongpo (also known as Su Shi) was exiled to Huizhou, he called this pagoda the Great Sage Pagoda, also known as the Jade Pagoda, and wrote the verse: “At midnight the mountain gives birth to the moon; the Jade Pagoda lies gently on the rippling waves.” As the bright moon rises in the east, evening mist lingers thinly, and a gentle breeze stirs the waves, the pagoda’s reflection rests upon the water — this is known as the “Jade Pagoda Ripples.” When the setting sun dips below the horizon, one can admire the scene described as: “The pagoda’s shadow stretches long in the lake, the shimmering waters dance with the slanting sunlight. Since the day the stupa first rose, how many times has the golden sun set and risen again?” — named the “Leaning Shadows of Wild Goose Pagoda.” The exterior of the pagoda has seven stories, while the interior contains thirteen, built with a brick-and-wood structure in the style of a pavilion-style Buddhist pagoda. In the 43rd year of the Jiajing era of the Ming Dynasty (1564 AD), the pagoda was destroyed; early in the Wanli era, it was turned into a pavilion, and in the 46th year (1618 AD), it was rebuilt as a pagoda. In the early years of the Guangxu era, lightning struck and broke off a corner of the pagoda’s top, where a banyan tree subsequently grew. The poet Qiu Fengjia wrote: “If travelers wish to find the grave of Morning Clouds, look to the towering banyan atop the pagoda.” After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, it was restored and stair railings were added. The mountain is shaded by lush trees, with pavilions and corridors adding to the picturesque scenery. From the top of the pagoda, one can enjoy a panoramic view of Huizhou.

Sizhou Pagoda

Since its reconstruction, this pagoda has a history of over 360 years and is one of the oldest existing structures in Huizhou. During the Qing Dynasty's Guangxu era, the pagoda’s top was damaged by a lightning strike, which destroyed one corner. It wasn’t until 1955 that the damage was repaired. Since then, it has undergone several restorations, including reinforcing the outer walls, repainting the body of the pagoda, repairing the top, and adding flooring, revitalizing this ancient structure. Climbing the pagoda offers a refreshing experience, with the view expanding at each level. Each of the cardinal directions — east, south, west, and north — presents a unique landscape. Upon reaching the summit, the breathtaking panorama of Huizhou unfolds, making the “Jade Pagoda Bird’s-Eye View” a highlight of West Lake.

On December 10, 2015, Huizhou Sizhou Pagoda was approved and announced by the People's Government of Guangdong Province as part of the Eighth Batch of Guangdong Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Units.

Address: West of West Lake, No. 2 Huancheng West Road, Huicheng District, Huizhou City, Guangdong Province

Type: Historical Site / Ancient Pagoda

Recommended Visit Duration: 10–20 minutes

Opening Hours:

8:00-22:00

Further Reading:

· Eighth Batch of Guangdong Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Units