A famous spot in Hangzhou, China: Introducing the must-see tourist spots around West Lake

Hangzhou's pride, West Lake, boasts an area of 6.5 square kilometers, a circumference of 15 kilometers, and a maximum depth of 2.8 meters, making it a shallow but iconic lake. The lake and its surrounding areas are home to numerous tourist attractions, with well-maintained walking paths that allow visitors to explore the scenic beauty leisurely on foot. Cycling and sightseeing boats are also popular ways to enjoy the lake.

The name "West Lake" is said to have been inspired by Xi Shi, one of the Four Great Beauties of ancient China, by the Song Dynasty poet Su Shi. Among the many attractions at West Lake, there are ten famous spots collectively known as the "Ten Scenes of West Lake." However, there are many other must-see spots around West Lake. To help you explore, the area is divided into six sections: the eastern, western, southern, northern, central areas, and the surrounding regions of West Lake.

1. Liulang Wenying & West Lake Tiandi

The eastern area of West Lake in Hangzhou begins with Liulang Wenying, one of the Ten Scenes of West Lake. Enter through the beige gate inscribed with "Liulang Wenying," and you'll find a garden filled with willow trees swaying gracefully in the breeze, creating an elegant and picturesque scene. As its name suggests, "Listening to Orioles in the Willows," you may be lucky enough to hear the chirping of orioles. The garden features Jiangnan-style landscaping, with waterways and stone bridges. In spring, teahouses open within the park, attracting visitors who come to enjoy tea in this serene environment.

Nearby is the West Lake Tiandi area, located along the eastern lakeside. Accessible via West Lake Avenue from Hangzhou Station, it is a popular destination featuring a monument marking the site's UNESCO World Heritage status. Nestled within a small park lined with willow trees, this spot is home to chic urban cafes and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely visit.

2. Hubin Park

Heading further north in the eastern area of West Lake, you'll find Hubin Park, which is divided into six sections named "First Park" through "Sixth Park." The Sixth Park houses a bronze statue of Marco Polo. At night, the park becomes a spectacle of light and sound as illuminations synchronize with music, and water sprays from fountains near the lakeshore create a stunning display.

3. Broken Bridge Remnant Snow & Autumn Moon Over the Calm Lake

The northern area of West Lake is defined by a long dike called Bai Causeway, leading to a small island known as Gushan. Two of the Ten Scenes of West Lake are located here.

The first, Broken Bridge Remnant Snow, is situated at the northern end of Bai Causeway. Snow accumulates on the bridge and causeway during winter, and when sunlight melts the snow on the southern side of the bridge, it gives the illusion of the bridge being broken in half—hence its name.

The second, Autumn Moon Over the Calm Lake, is located about a 20-minute walk along Bai Causeway to Gushan. Here, the pavilions and structures are built so close to the water's surface that standing at the edge feels like being on the lake itself. On autumn nights under a full moon, the harmony of the moonlight and calm lake creates a breathtaking scene, earning it a place among the Ten Scenes.

4. Curved Yard and Lotus Pool in Summer & Dawn on the Su Causeway in Spring

Curved Yard and Lotus Pool in Summer is located about a 10-minute walk from Gushan in the northern area of West Lake. The entrance is on the left side. This spot features a pond filled with lotus plants, which bloom magnificently from early summer to summer, attracting numerous visitors.

The name "Curved Yard and Lotus Pool in Summer" dates back to the Song Dynasty when this area was known as Quyuan, a place for brewing royal wine. The fragrance of wine would drift in the breeze, inspiring the name to signify the scent of lotus flowers wafting through the air.

The other notable attraction in the northern area is Dawn on the Su Causeway in Spring, a historic spot. The 2.8 km-long Su Causeway offers stunning views, especially in spring when the willow trees sprout new leaves. Benches along the causeway make it a popular place for relaxation among tourists and locals alike.

5. Yue Fei Temple

Located on the western side of the northern West Lake area, Yue Fei Temple is a historic site dedicated to the Southern Song Dynasty hero, Yue Fei. Known for his staunch resistance against the Jin Dynasty, Yue Fei was tragically accused of treason by the opposing faction led by Qin Hui and executed at the age of 39. Later, his honor was restored, and he became celebrated as a national hero.

The temple showcases various exhibits commemorating Yue Fei's achievements, including a depiction of his mother tattooing his back to encourage him as he set off for battle. Within the grounds, statues depict Qin Hui and his wife kneeling in disgrace, once subjected to a tradition of spitting, now prohibited. Yue Fei Temple remains one of the most significant historical attractions in the northern West Lake area.

6. Twin Peaks Piercing the Clouds & Viewing Fish at Flower Pond

In the western area of West Lake, Twin Peaks Piercing the Clouds and Viewing Fish at Flower Pond are two of the Ten Scenes of West Lake.

Twin Peaks Piercing the Clouds refers to the view from Hongchun Bridge, located midway along Lingyin Road on the west side of West Lake. From the bridge, you can see the South Peak and North Peak of Hangzhou, which once had pagodas on top. While the pagodas no longer exist, the bridge offers scenic views of the lake and is a popular spot for those interested in the stone stele inscribed by an emperor of the Qing Dynasty.

Viewing Fish at Flower Pond is a garden situated on the southern part of the western West Lake area, dating back to the Song Dynasty. The name signifies enjoying the flowers and the port, along with watching the fish. The garden features a koi pond housing over 1,000 carp, as well as famous peony flowers and an area where peacocks can be observed.

7. Guo’s Villa & Maojiabu

In the western area of West Lake, Guo’s Villa is a historic mansion originally built in 1907 by Hangzhou merchant Song Ruifu. Later passed on to someone named Guo, the villa acquired its current name. Officially known as Fenyang Villa, it features a classic Chinese garden design against the backdrop of West Lake, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.

A short distance south from Guo’s Villa lies Maojiabu, an area where traditional dwellings from the West Lake region have been reconstructed. Maojiabu is less known in guidebooks, making it a hidden gem with fewer tourists. Along the lakeshore, you’ll find bronze statues depicting scenes of people playing flutes on boats or enjoying the serene surroundings, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle around West Lake.

8. Leifeng Pagoda in the Sunset & Evening Bell at Nanping Hill

In the southern area of West Lake, Leifeng Pagoda in the Sunset and Evening Bell at Nanping Hill are two of the Ten Scenes of West Lake.

Leifeng Pagoda, originally built during the Spring and Autumn Period, was reconstructed and now stands 71 meters tall. It features an elevator, allowing visitors to enjoy panoramic views of West Lake from the top. The best view of the pagoda glowing in the sunset can be seen from the walkway along the lake’s eastern shore.

Across from Leifeng Pagoda lies Evening Bell at Nanping Hill, home to Jingci Temple. This temple is renowned for the unique sound of its bell, which resonates through the surrounding rocks, creating a distinct and beautiful tone. Watching West Lake while listening to the bell is a memorable experience, giving the spot its poetic name.

9. Zhejiang Xizi Hotel & Prince Bay Park

The Zhejiang Xizi Hotel, located along the lakeshore near the foot of Leifeng Pagoda, is one of Hangzhou's top five-star hotels. Opened in 1958, it was exclusive to important figures such as Mao Zedong until 1980, when it became accessible to the public. Its prime location offers views of notable sites like Su Causeway, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, and Liulang Wenying.

Prince Bay Park, originally a garden from the Southern Song Dynasty, now spans 80 hectares and is famous for its stunning tulip displays in spring. Known as a popular wedding venue, the park is a must-visit for its serene beauty and vibrant flowers.

10. Three Pools Mirroring the Moon & West Lake Sightseeing

Located on Xiaoyingzhou, an island in the middle of West Lake, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon is an iconic site. The southern lake of the island features three stone pagodas that create a magical scene on full moon nights. The island itself is a network of ponds and paths, including the famous Nine-Zigzag Bridge, and is a popular sightseeing spot.

To reach Xiaoyingzhou, board a sightseeing boat from various docks around West Lake. A typical route starts from Hubin Park on the eastern shore, stopping at the smallest island, Huxinting. This island has souvenir shops before continuing to Xiaoyingzhou. From there, sightseeing boats can take you in different directions, allowing you to customize your itinerary.

11. Impression West Lake Night Show

A must-see attraction during a visit to West Lake is the Impression West Lake night show. The performance is designed to give the illusion that the performers are walking on water, thanks to a stage constructed just beneath the lake’s surface, utilizing the shallow lakebed.

Produced by renowned Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou, the show reenacts scenes from the famous Legend of the White Snake, particularly the romantic and marital bond between Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian. The stunning set design, storytelling, music, and choreography make this an unmissable experience when touring West Lake.

12. Lingyin Temple & Feilai Peak

Located on the western side of West Lake, Lingyin Temple and Feilai Peak are often explored together, though separate tickets are required. Lingyin Temple, founded in 326 by an Indian monk named Huili, is Hangzhou’s oldest Buddhist temple. The name "Lingyin" reflects the temple’s serene location, surrounded by mountains that evoke a sense of mystical seclusion.

Feilai Peak is famous for its 338 stone Buddha carvings on its rock surfaces and caves, dating back to the Song and Yuan dynasties. In addition to Lingyin Temple, Feilai Peak also houses the Zen temples of Yongfu Temple and Daxiong Temple. The tranquil mountain paths connecting these temples offer breathtaking scenery that soothes the soul.

13. Origin of Longjing Tea

The Longjing Village on the western side of West Lake is renowned as the birthplace of Longjing tea, a highly sought-after Chinese green tea. Other production areas include Shifeng, Hupao, Yunqi, and Meijiawu. The tea fields can be seen along the wooded paths of Yanggong Causeway on Xishan Road.

In China, the quality of tea is often described using the "Four Wonders": its green color, flat leaves, mellow taste, and delicate aroma. Longjing tea is celebrated for meeting all four criteria. Longjing tea retains a lighter green color even when brewed.

Visitors can enjoy tea-tasting experiences at various tea houses in the area, making it a delightful and immersive experience.

◎Conclusion

West Lake, with its Ten Scenes and historical significance, has captivated visitors with its romantic and picturesque charm since ancient times. Unlike the rugged and masculine landscapes often associated with China, West Lake offers a softer, feminine allure. In addition to its natural beauty, the area is celebrated for its temples and exceptional tea. Enjoy the full spectrum of Hangzhou’s attractions and make the most of your visit.