This octagonal pagoda is made from stone and brick (which is now covered by wood since the 11th century), was first built in 970 AD. It was built to exert the power of the King of Wuyue State over the Tidal Bore that rampaged up the nearby Qiantang Jiang river every September, destroying crops, docks, ships, etc. Of course it didn't achieve quite that goal, but it did serve as a useful lighthouse for the nearby ports.

The pagoda appears to have 13 stories, but actually there are only seven. Overall it is 60 meters high, and of course Bron and I climbed the stairs to the top to see the hazy view of the lakes, parks and river. There is an important bridge over the river nearby, which was quite an engineering feat to build.

This is a classic example of ancient Chinese architecture and constant renovation has kept it in excellent condition.