Iron Pagoda (铁塔)

The Iron Pagoda (铁塔, Tiě Tǎ) is a 1,000-year-old masterpiece of Song Dynasty engineering — built in 1049 AD and still standing strong.

What to See

The Exterior — Made of iron-colored glazed bricks that give the pagoda its name. The bricks are carved with Buddhist figures, dragons, and floral patterns.

The Climb — 57 steps lead to the top. The stairway is narrow and steep — but the view from the top is worth it.

The View — From the top, you can see all of Kaifeng — the old city, the lakes, and the modern skyline. The sunset view is spectacular.

The History — The pagoda has survived earthquakes, floods, and wars for 1,000 years. It's one of the oldest structures in China.

Practical Tips

• Entry fee: ¥50 ($7)
• The pagoda leans slightly — don't worry, it's designed that way
• The climb is narrow and steep — wear comfortable shoes
• Allow 1-2 hours
• The view from the top is worth it