Most pagodas in Asia were built to have a religious function, most commonly for Buddhist, and were often located in or near temples. An interesting note, the curved lines of the roofs were believed to help ward off evil spirits.

This newer structure is located adjacent to a Buddhist temple in southwest Houston. If you had been dropped out of the sky onto their property, you would have thought you were in the middle of Asia. 
  

Most pagodas in Asia were often located in or near temples. This newer structure is located adjacent to a Buddhist temple in southwest Houston. Photo by Tim Stanley Photography.