Hangzhou West Lake Sunrise Glow

Introduction to the Scenic Beauty of Hangzhou West Lake The West Lake in Hangzhou boasts numerous scenic attractions. Here are some key highlights: **Natural Landscapes** *Lake and Shore*: The crystal-clear waters of West Lake resemble a mirror, with an oval-shaped outline covering an area of 6.03 square kilometers (5.66 sq km water surface). The winding lakeshore is surrounded by mountains on three sides and the city on one, with lush greenery, blooming flowers, and a harmonious blend of peaks, rocks, caves, springs, ponds, streams, and ravines—forming a natural landscape painting. *Dikes, Islands, and Bridges*: The Bai Causeway and Su Causeway divide the lake into five sections: Outer Lake, Inner Lake, Yue Lake, West Inner Lake, and Little South Lake. The lake features four islands—Solitary Hill, Lesser Yingzhou, Mid-Lake Pavilion, and Ruan Gong Islet. The causeways are lined with weeping willows, the islands are elegantly scattered, and the bridges, such as Broken Bridge and Long Bridge, add a touch of antiquity and romance. **Cultural Attractions** *Ten Scenes of West Lake* 1. **Spring Dawn on Su Causeway**: Stretching across the lake, this causeway was built by Northern Song poet Su Shi using dredged silt. In early spring, the willows and blooming peach trees make it a vibrant herald of the season. 2. **Lotus in the Breeze at Crooked Courtyard**: Located in the northwest, this area is famed for its lotus-filled lake views. Summer breezes carry the fragrance of lotus and wine, creating an intoxicating atmosphere. 3. **Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake**: Situated at the west end of Bai Causeway, this spot offers serene views of the moon reflecting on the lake, evoking the poetic line, "A single hue of lake light stretches for miles in autumn." 4. **Melting Snow on Broken Bridge**: At the east end of Bai Causeway, the bridge appears "broken" when snow melts on one side but lingers on the other. It’s also the legendary meeting place of Lady White and Xu Xian. 5. **Twin Peaks Piercing the Clouds**: The South Peak and North Peak, southwest and northwest of the lake, were once topped with pagodas. On misty days, their peaks seem to vanish into the clouds, creating a fairy-tale scene. 6. **Three Pools Mirroring the Moon**: The iconic three stone pagodas (featured on China’s 1-yuan bill) create a magical illusion of 33 "moons" when candles are lit inside on moonlit nights. 7. **Viewing Fish at Flower Pond**: Named for its flower-lined streams and colorful koi ponds, this area near Su Causeway is a tranquil retreat. 8. **Evening Bell at Nanping Hill**: The evening chimes from Jingci Temple on Nanping Hill have inspired artists since the Northern Song dynasty. 9. **Leifeng Pagoda in Sunset Glow**: This pagoda on Sunset Hill glows golden at dusk, casting a striking silhouette. 10. **Orioles Singing in the Willows**: A former imperial garden, this southeastern lakeside area is alive with willow trees and birdsong, offering picturesque views. **Historic Sites and Temples** - **Leifeng Pagoda**: A landmark on Sunset Hill, originally built by King Qian Hongchu of Wuyue, it’s famed for its sunset views. - **Baochu Pagoda**: On Precious Stone Hill, this slender pagoda contrasts beautifully with Leifeng Pagoda across the lake. - **Lingyin Temple**: One of Hangzhou’s oldest Buddhist temples, nestled near Feilai Peak, features awe-inspiring rock carvings and serene architecture. - **Yue Fei Temple**: Dedicated to the Song dynasty general Yue Fei, this solemn shrine on Beishan Road honors his loyalty and valor.