China | Suzhou Yunyan Ta Pagoda
 Yunyan Ta 'Cloud Rock' Leaning PagodaThe Yunyan Ta Pagoda (aka ThebYunyan Pagoda, Tiger Hill Pagoda or Leaning Pagoda) is one of Suzhou's most famous landmarks, situated atop Tiger Hill (aka Surging Sea Hill) in the city's center. The 48 meter high Yunyan Ta Pagoda was built during the 'Northern' Song dynasty (959 AD to 961 AD), and is one of the region's oldest standing pagodas. 
Suzhou's Yunyan Ta Pagoda - Looking at the Yunyan Ta Pagoda is an octahedron-shaped structure constructed of mud-brick, that began to settle over 400 years ago. The settling has resulted in a 3.5 degree lean to the north-west. Tiger Hill At approximately 120 feet heigh, Tiger Hill is was Suzhou's most prominent geographic features. The pagoda was considered a beacon to travelers entering Suzhou, as the landmark could be seen for miles in every direction. Poet Su Shi from the Song Dynasty said of Tiger Hill: "It is a lifelong pity if having visited Suzhou you did not visit Tiger Hill." 
Garden path leading up to the Yunyan Ta Pagoda Tiger Hill's significance as a historical landmark began in 496 BC, when He Lu, the King of Wu and founder of Suzhou, was buried here after being killed in battle. 
Suzhou's Yunyan Ta 'Leaning Pagoda' - Looking at the east side Aside from the Yunyan Ta Pagoda, Tiger Hill is known for its beautiful gardens, paths, and vistas, with the Verdant Mountain Villa or Yongcui Shanzhuang garden built by Emperor Guangxu from the Qing Dynasty (1644 to 1911), and the Wan Jing Villa bonsai garden as standouts. 
Suzhou's Yunyan Ta Pagoda - Looking at the Other significant pagodas and temples in Suzhou are the Hanshan Temple, Mysterious Taoist Temple, North Temple Pagoda, Twin Pagodas. |
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