Taipei 101

Although this 1,671-foot tower in Taipei isn't technically a pagoda, its iconic design is inspired by the pagoda. It is designed to withstand an earthquake that occurs once every 2500 years with an extension of the eight tiers, the auspicious number of Buddhism.

Built in 2004, it was the tallest building in the world until it was swept away by Dubai's Burj Khalifiya in 2009. The 101st floor is still unusually high, and a visit to the outdoor observation deck on the 91st floor will confirm that it has definitely achieved the goal of all towers: to connect the earth and the sky.

• Location:Taipei, Taiwan