Visiting the Shibaozhai Red Pagoda | Know Before You Go
A very cool stop along our four-night river cruise along the Yangtze River was an excursion up to the Shibaozhai Red Pagoda. Fortunately I was with a guided group and didn’t have to make any of these plans myself as I was nineteen at the time and didn’t know what I was doing, but now that I’ve gone through it I wanted to put together a guide for visiting the pagoda for those looking to plan out their itinerary themselves! Here are all of the things I would have found helpful if I were planning a visit to the pagoda now:
*This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you choose to make a purchase through the link. Thank you for your support – we hope you have a great trip!

What is the Shibaozhai Red Pagoda?
The Shibaozhai Red Pagoda is a famous, twelve story high temple built into a tree covered cliffside near the Yangtze River. This pagoda is open for the public to tour through, offering a look into unique architecture as well as cultural symbols & art that are housed within the temple.
Where is the Shibaozhai Red Pagoda?
The Shibaozhai Red Pagoda is located on a small hilled island just outside of the Yangtze River: Shi Bao Zhai. This is within the Zhong country of central China.
What is the Shibaozhai Red Pagoda Known For?
This red pagoda is well known for its architecture as it is built directly into the cliffside. It is also a beautifully maintained structure that is easily accessible from many Yangtze River tours and provides great views of the surrounding areas.

How Do I Get to the Shibaozhai Red Pagoda?
The Shibaozhai Red Pagoda is fairly accessible. If you are on a Yangtze River tour, your cruise will likely dock for a few hours riverside and you can just walk right to the pagoda, either with a group or on your own. If you’re not on a cruise, the pagoda is about a 3.5 hour drive from the nearby city of Chongqing, or about an hour drive from the closer Zhengzhou Residential District of Chongqing.
Yangtze River Cruise Options:
- Yichang to Chongqing: 4 Day 5 Night River Cruise (Upstream)
- Chongqing to Yichang:Â 3 Day 4 Night River Cruise (Downstream)
Zhengzhou Residential District Hotels:
Chongqing Hotels:
If you are coming from the river, you will have the opportunity to walk through a street market on your walk to the pagoda. Additionally, you will cross a long wooden hanging bridge to get to the pagoda area. Both are fun additions to the trip, but be sure to wear good walking shoes for the day!

Do I Need Tickets for the Shibaozhai Red Pagoda?
Yes, tickets are required in order to explore the Shibaozhai Red Pagoda. These tickets may be purchased onsite upon arrival, or they may likely be included in the excursion fees if you are coming from a river cruise.
More Like This
1. Yangtze River Cruise – Between Chongqing and Yichang
One of the most beautiful excursions we embarked on during our visit to China was a Yangtze River Cruise, sailing from Yichang to Chongqing …
2. The Best Way To Spend 3 Days in Beijing
Seville is by far the most underrated major city in Spain. The most common response from city residents when asked why they enjoy…

3. How To Spend One Day in Xi’an, China
Seville is by far the most underrated major city in Spain. The most common response from city residents when asked why they enjoy…

About the Author: Hi, I’m Jill! I am a biomedical & mechanical engineer who loves traveling during my free time. My hope is to help make it easier for others to plan their dream trips by providing firsthand experience from the places I’ve been! Read More.
