Overview
Key takeaway
55m pagoda built 1049 AD, covered in glazed iron-colored tiles. The oldest building in Kaifeng, survived earthquakes and floods for 1,000 years.
Time & cost
Plan 1 hour. Budget: $6. Hours: 07:30–18:30.
Best for
Best for first-time Kaifeng visitors who want a clear 1 hour stop without guesswork.
Practical
Price$6
Duration1 hour
Hours07:30–18:30
Getting thereBus 3/6/20; Didi 10 min
Tips
On site
The park around it is pleasant.
Timing
Climbing the pagoda is steep (168 steps) but gives city views.
Also
The glazed brick details are intricate.
Timing
Leave with hours in mind (07:30–18:30). Weekends and holidays need extra queue time.
Pay
Nearby stalls usually take Alipay or WeChat. Foreign-card terminals are rare — set up Alipay before you go.
Show this
Show the Chinese name “铁塔” to drivers and staff. It beats a long English explanation.
Location & how to go
Iron Pagoda, Kaifeng
MetroBus 3/6/20; Didi 10 min
BusBus 3/6/20; Didi 10 min
Taxi / DidiDidi or a licensed taxi is the simplest door-to-door. Set destination to “铁塔” and pay in-app with Alipay/WeChat.
