Discover Longhua Pagoda: Shanghai's Crown Jewel of History

Location & How to Get There

Longhua Pagoda stands proudly at 2853 Longhua Road in Xuhui District, Shanghai. It’s nestled within the Longhua Temple complex, just a 15-minute taxi ride from Xujiahui (a major subway hub) or a 30-minute walk from Longhua Middle Road subway station (Line 12). If you’re visiting other Puxi landmarks, it’s easy to combine this with stops like the Old French Concession or Jiaozhou Lu.

Natural Scenery: Tower Views & Autumn Magic

At 40.4 meters tall, Longhua Pagoda offers some of the best panoramas in Shanghai. Climb its seven stories (eight sides!) and you’ll spot the Huangpu River winding through the city, tiny sailboats dotting the water, and endless Jiangnan (Yangtze Delta) greenery. Locals call the view “Autumn River & Pagoda Shadow”—imagine red maple leaves reflecting on the river while the pagoda looms behind. It’s one of Shanghai’s Eight Historic Scenes!

Culture & History: Over 1,000 Years Old!

This isn’t just any tower. Longhua Pagoda dates back to 977 AD (Northern Song Dynasty), though legends say it was first built even earlier—in 222–265 AD by Sun Quan, a local king, to thank his mom! (Think of it as ancient China’s “Mother’s Day gift.”) Over the centuries, it’s been rebuilt, but still holds Buddhist relics from India and a brick-and-wood design that’s pure Classic Chinese Architecture. Each corner has bells that tinkle in the wind—listen closely!

What to See: Details Up Close

  • Shape & Structure: Seven floors, eight sides, and those flaring eaves (roof edges) make it look like a piece of art. Locals say it’s “Shanghai’s #1 Pagoda”.
  • Bells & Relics: Ancient wind chimes sing in the breeze, and inside, you’ll find sacred Buddhist items brought from faraway lands.
  • Poem Vibes: One old poem describes standing here: “Boats chase winds eastward, villages dot the river—this tower’s view is unlike any other.” Still true today!

Practical Tips: Visiting Like a Pro

  • Opening Hours: Generally 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (check online for updates).
  • Entrance Fee: Included in the Longhua Temple ticket (~¥20–40).
  • Best Time to Visit: Autumn for the famous maple leaves, or morning/evening to avoid crowds.
  • Pair with Nearby Attractions: Walk next door to Longhua Temple (one of Shanghai’s oldest) or explore the Longhua Martyrs Memorial for modern history.

Dining & Souvenirs: Eat Like a Local

After your visit, grab snacks at Longhua Temple’s food stalls—think shaolongbao (soup dumplings) or sticky rice cakes. For keepsakes, the nearby shops sell pagoda-themed charms, mini bells, or hand-painted fans.

Why You’ll Love It

Longhua Pagoda isn’t just a tower—it’s a portal to Shanghai’s soul. You’ll get history, nature, and culture all in one spot. Whether you’re into climbing ancient steps, snapping Instagram-worthy photos, or just soaking in views, this is Shanghai’s hidden gem. Come early, stay late, and let the wind chimes carry you back in time!

(Pssst: Want more? The area around Longhua Pagoda is packed with temples, gardens, and old-Shanghai vibes—perfect for a full-day trip!)