West Lake

Historical Overview

The lake’s history dates back to the 8th century when it was first developed under the Tang Dynasty. Emperors such as Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty and poets like Su Shi (Su Dongpo) left indelible marks through dredging projects, bridge-building, and poetry. The Ten Scenes of West Lake, officially recognized in the Southern Song Dynasty (12th–13th centuries), became a cultural touchstone, immortalized in art and literature. Today, the area’s 1,000+ years of history are palpable in its ancient pavilions, stone carvings, and timeless traditions.

Structural Layout

The scenic area is divided into three zones:

Northern Shore: The bustling hub with iconic sites like Bai Causeway, Yue Fei Temple, and the historic Wulin Road.

Southern Shore: Home to Leifeng Pagoda, the serene Flower Harbor Park, and the classic "Three Pools Mirroring the Moon" (a UNESCO-listed stone tower).

Western Islets: The idyllic islands of Xiao Yingzhou (Little Paradise) and Ruan Gong Dun, linked by arch bridges and dotted with tea houses.

Key elements include the Su Causeway (planted by Su Shi), Broken Bridge (legendary for its love story), and Lingyin Temple (a 1,600-year-old Buddhist sanctuary).

Major Attractions

Leifeng Pagoda: A reconstructed 10th-century octagonal tower offering panoramic lake views.

Three Pools Mirroring the Moon: Stone towers reflecting on the water during the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Yue Fei Temple: Honors the Song Dynasty general with a statue, tomb, and inscribed steles.

Lingyin Temple: Features a 34-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha and ancient grottoes.

Six Harmonies Pagoda: A 14th-century brick pagoda overlooking the Qiantang River.

Dragon Well Tea Plantation: World-famous for Longjing tea, with hands-on picking experiences.

Solitary Hill: A wooded island with the Zhejiang Provincial Museum and the Xiling Seal Art Society.

Suggested Itineraries

Classic Route (Half-Day):

Bai Causeway → Broken Bridge → Yue Fei Temple → Solitary Hill → Leifeng Pagoda

Highlights: Lakeside walks, cultural landmarks, and sunset views from Leifeng.

Extended Route (Full Day):

Su Causeway → Flower Harbor Park → Three Pools Mirroring the Moon → Lingyin Temple → Dragon Well Tea Village

Highlights: Nature trails, Buddhist architecture, and tea tastings.

Cultural Immersion (2 Days):

Day 1: West Lake Museum → Wushan Square → China National Tea Museum

Day 2: Xiling Seal Art Society → Hangzhou Grand Canal → Impression West Lake Show (evening)

Highlights: Art, history, and a water-themed performance by Zhang Yimou.

Ticket Purchase

West Lake Scenic Area: Free entry (individual attractions vary).

Leifeng Pagoda: ¥40 (adults), ¥20 (students/seniors).

Lingyin Temple: ¥75 (includes Flying Peak grottoes).

Impression West Lake Show: ¥360–¥680 (seat-dependent).

Online Booking: Use the "West Lake Tourism" official website or WeChat mini-program.

Transportation

Subway: Line 1 to Longxiangqiao Station (for northern shore) or Ding’an Road Station (for southern shore).

Bus: Routes 7, 51, 52, or 27 to key stops like Yuewang Temple or Su Causeway.

Bike: Rent a public bike (e.g., Hello Bike) for ¥1.5/30 minutes.

Boat: Electric boats (¥55–¥70/hour) or traditional rowboats (negotiable rates) from Hubin Jetty.

Best Time & Tips

Peak Seasons: Spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September–November) for maple leaves.

Avoid Crowds: Weekdays and early mornings (before 9 AM).

Essentials:

Wear weather-appropriate clothing (rain gear in summer, layers in autumn).

Use sunscreen and insect repellent.

Respect temple rules: No photos inside shrines; dress modestly.

Try local snacks: Dongpo Pork, West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy, and Longjing Shrimp.