Jiangxin Island

A forested island in the Ou River with pagodas, temples, and the best views of Wenzhou's skyline

Jiangxin Island sits in the middle of the Ou River a short ferry ride from the Wenzhou waterfront, offering a green escape from the city's commercial intensity. The island is a formal scenic area, landscaped with paths and pavilions, but its main draws are the two ancient pagodas — the East Pagoda (Tang Dynasty, 869 CE) and the West Pagoda (Five Dynasties, early 10th century) — that have stood on opposite ends of the island for over a thousand years.

The walk between the pagodas takes in several temple buildings, a small lake, and stretches of riverfront with views back toward Wenzhou's dense skyline. Come in the late afternoon when the light is on the water. The ferry crossing from Jiangxin Wharf takes a few minutes and runs frequently; entry to the island costs a small fee.

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A story
The East Pagoda on Jiangxin Island was built in 869 CE during the Tang Dynasty and has been a navigational landmark for Ou River sailors for over 1,100 years. The island was a place of Buddhist retreat and official ceremony for most of its history — emperors and governors came here to pray before military campaigns. During the Cultural Revolution the temples were damaged but the pagodas survived, too large and solid to be easily demolished.