This pagoda, 54m/177ft high and of eleven storeys, stands in a northern suburb of Yinchuan and so is also known locally as the Northern Pagoda (Bei Ta). It was probably built in the early 5th c. but suffered severe damage in two earthquakes in 1712 and 1778. The subsequent restorations have succeeded in restoring it to its former glory.
Cleverly placed niches make the rectangular building look as though it has twelve sides. It differs from other Chinese pagodas in that it has three window openings on all four sides at each floor level, with the centre one projecting forward more than the others. From the upper floors there is a magnificent view of the town, the mountains and the Huanghe river.
