Hangzhou is a beautiful city with a lot of options to offer. Among these attractions, the West Lake is a stunning freshwater lake divided into five sections by three causeways. Around the lake, you can find beautiful temples, attractive pagodas, and amazing gardens. The lake has four small islands within itself and three of them are artificial. The lake is also listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The History of West Lake
West Lake was a lot different back in the 8th century. Then, it was only a lagoon next to Qiantang River but the governor of Hangzhou changed it into a lake. During the time the lake gradually became larger and more magnificent by planting gardens, building pagodas, and constructing islands and causeways from dredged silt.
Originally called “Wulin Waters,” the lake underwent significant transformation during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) when Governor Bai Juyi initiated the first major dredging projects. Later, during the Song Dynasty (960-1279), the famous poet Su Dongpo further enhanced the lake by creating the Su Causeway, establishing the foundation for what would become one of China’s most celebrated scenic landscapes. Throughout its history, West Lake has inspired countless poems, paintings, and stories, cementing its place in Chinese cultural heritage.
What to do around West Lake?
Getting relaxed
The first thing that comes to mind is just taking a stroll around the lake to gather your thoughts and relax. In early spring, you might be able to have the beautiful cherry blossoms to make the walk much more romantic.
The best time for viewing cherry blossoms is typically from mid-March to early April, when over 2,000 cherry trees around the lake burst into bloom. The most popular spots for cherry blossom viewing include the Bai Causeway, Solitary Hill, and the Hangzhou Botanical Garden, where you’ll find different varieties, including both Japanese and Chinese cherry species.
Sitting on branches
The environment around the lake is designed like a park with a lot of benches and you can have a resting place with an admiring view.
These strategically placed seating areas offer spectacular views of the “Ten Scenes of West Lake” – famous viewpoints that have been celebrated since the Southern Song Dynasty. Many benches are positioned along the lake’s perimeter path, which stretches approximately 15 kilometers, allowing visitors to rest while taking in panoramic views of the lake’s shimmering waters, distant pagodas, and willow-lined shores.
Boat ride
The boat ride is another option. Chinese-style boats will take you around at a slow pace so you can take in all the beauty the lake has to offer. It’s a much soothing experience if you have just left a crowded city.
West Lake offers several types of boat tours to choose from. The traditional wooden rowing boats, known as “Huafang,” provide an authentic experience with guides who often share local legends and history. For a more luxurious experience, consider the painted dragon boats, which offer comfortable seating and sometimes include tea service. Boats typically depart from Hubin Road, the Lakeside Park area, or near the Leifeng Pagoda. A standard tour lasts about 45-60 minutes, while specialty sunset cruises can extend to 90 minutes.
Renting bicycle
Renting a bicycle is another one of your choices when vising West Lake. By riding a bicycle, you can cover a larger area faster and enjoy the lake in a whole new manner.
Hangzhou’s excellent bike-sharing system makes cycling around West Lake exceptionally convenient. Public bike stations are located throughout the lake area, with major rental points at Hubin Road, Nanshan Road, and near major tourist attractions. The dedicated cycling path around the lake spans approximately 12 kilometers and is well-maintained, making for a smooth and pleasant ride. Electric bikes are also available for those who prefer a less strenuous experience. A full circuit of the lake typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
Enjoy a meal
West Lake is surrounded by numerous restaurants. After a long walk or enjoying the boat ride, you can have a vast variety of choices based on your appetite just near the lake.
For an authentic taste of Hangzhou cuisine, try local specialties like West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy (Xi Hu Cu Yu), Dongpo Pork, Beggar’s Chicken, or Longjing Shrimp. Many restaurants around the lake offer these dishes with premium ingredients and traditional preparation methods. For exceptional dining with a view, visit Louwailou Restaurant on Gushan Road, which dates back over 150 years and offers panoramic lake views. The Hubin Road area features upscale dining options, while the Qinghefang Historical Street provides more casual and traditional food experiences, including street food vendors offering local snacks like Hangzhou dumplings and sweet Dongpo pastries.
Photography Opportunities
West Lake offers countless picture-perfect moments with its changing seasonal beauty. Photographers will particularly appreciate the early morning mist that often shrouds the lake, creating ethereal scenes as the sun rises. The “Three Pools Mirroring the Moon” is especially photogenic during full moon nights, while Broken Bridge provides excellent vantage points in every season – particularly after snow when the contrasting dark and snow-covered sections create a striking visual. The lake’s many pavilions, pagodas, and willow trees create natural frames for your photographs.
Tea Culture Experience
Hangzhou is famous for its Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, considered one of China’s finest green teas. The hills surrounding West Lake are home to numerous tea plantations where this prestigious tea is grown. Visit the Longjing Tea Village in the western hills for an immersive experience, where you can observe tea picking (especially in spring), learn about traditional processing methods, and participate in authentic tea ceremonies. Many teahouses around the lake serve freshly harvested Longjing tea, allowing you to appreciate its delicate flavor while enjoying lake views.
Attractions of the lake
There are some really attractive places to visit around the lake that are explained below.
Su Causeway
Su Causeway is lovely, especially in spring. Famous poet Su Dongpo constructed the Su Causeway in the 11th century. It has a length of 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers).
The Su Causeway has six bridges connected to it and there are lots of willow and peach trees alongside it. At the time of blossoming in spring, the view becomes breathtaking.
The six bridges along Su Causeway each have poetic names: Yingbo (Reflecting Waves), Suolan (Lock the Ripples), Wangshan (Viewing Mountains), Yadi (Pressing the Dike), Dongpu (Eastern Lakeshore), and Kuahong (Crossing the Rainbow). Each bridge offers unique perspectives of the lake and surrounding landscapes. Along the causeway, you’ll also find several scenic spots, including the “Viewing Fish at Flower Harbor” and “Orioles Singing in the Willows,” two of the classic “Ten Scenes of West Lake.” The best time to visit is early morning when the causeway is less crowded and the morning light creates a magical atmosphere.
Quyuan Garden
If you go to the northwest of the lake, you can visit the Quyuan Garden. This is a collection of gardens grown over many islets and it is known for its lovely spring lotus blossoms.
Quyuan Garden stretches over 22 hectares and represents a perfect blend of natural landscapes and human artistry. Originally established during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), the garden has evolved over centuries but maintains its classical Chinese garden aesthetics. The garden is divided into several scenic areas, including Lotus Pool, Bamboo Forest, and Peony Terrace. When visiting in summer (June to August), don’t miss the spectacular lotus blossoms covering vast areas of the water surface, showcasing varieties in white, pink, and red hues. The garden also houses several historic pavilions where visitors can rest while enjoying views of West Lake and the distant mountains.
Bai Causeway
West Lake has been a great place to see the full moon for a long time. If you go to the west of the Bai Causeway, you can find yourself by the West outer Lake and among Chinese traditional culture with different structures. Indeed, a nice place to appreciate the full moon.
Named after Tang Dynasty poet and governor Bai Juyi, the Bai Causeway extends approximately 2 kilometers across the northern part of West Lake. Unlike Su Causeway, which cuts through the lake’s center, Bai Causeway hugs the northern shore, offering different perspectives of the lake and the mountains. The causeway is lined with more than 500 willow trees, creating a green corridor that’s especially beautiful during spring and autumn. Along this causeway, you’ll find the famous Autumn Moon Over the Calm Lake scenic spot, considered one of the best locations for viewing the moon’s reflection on the water’s surface. The causeway also connects to Gushan Island, making it a strategic starting point for exploring the lake’s attractions.
Gushan Island
If you move toward the northern shores from the Bai Causeway, you would reach Gushan Island, which is the largest island of the lake. This island is home to Zhejiang Provincial Museum and Zhongshan Park. Buildings and gardens on this island were once the holiday residence of Emperor Qianlong in the 18th.
Gushan Island (also called Solitary Hill) rises 38 meters above the lake and spans approximately 40 hectares. Unlike the other islands in West Lake, Gushan is natural rather than man-made. The island houses several significant cultural attractions beyond the Zhejiang Provincial Museum, including Zhongshan Park and the Seal Engravers Society. The Zhejiang Provincial Museum’s West Lake branch showcases over 100,000 artifacts, with exceptional collections of celadon pottery, silk artifacts, and historical documents related to Hangzhou’s past as the Southern Song Dynasty capital. Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty visited Hangzhou six times, and his Temporary Imperial Palace on Gushan Island has been meticulously preserved, offering visitors insights into imperial life and aesthetics.
Su Xiaoxiao’s tomb
Near Xiling Bridge, you can see Su Xiaoxiao’s tomb. She was a famous courtesan and poet. It’s said that she died in the grief of waiting for her lover to come back. It’s also said that she haunts the area, and you can hear the tinkle of the bells on her dress at night.
Su Xiaoxiao lived during the Southern Qi Dynasty (479-502 AD) and was renowned for both her beauty and literary talent. Her tragic love story has been immortalized in countless poems, paintings, and operas throughout Chinese history. The current tomb structure was rebuilt in the 1980s based on historical records, as the original tomb had been damaged over centuries. The site features a stone memorial arch with inscriptions of poems dedicated to Su Xiaoxiao, as well as a small pavilion where visitors can pay respects. The tomb area is surrounded by weeping willows, symbolizing eternal sorrow, and has become a pilgrimage site for those who appreciate romantic literature and star-crossed love stories.
Xia Oying Island
The smallest island is called Xia Oying, where the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon is located. There are three stone towers on the south of the island in water and there are some holes on each of them. These towers form a triangle with 68 yards (62-meter) edges and stand 8.2 feet (2.5 meters) tall. At the full moon, candles are lit in the towers, and their reflection, along with the full moon, creates the illusion that you can see several moons.
The Three Pools Mirroring the Moon is so iconic that it appears on the back of the 1 yuan banknote, making it one of China’s most recognizable scenic spots. The stone pagodas were originally installed during the Song Dynasty but have been rebuilt several times throughout history. Each pagoda contains five holes at different heights, designed specifically to allow candlelight to shine through when lit inside. The best time to experience this magical phenomenon is during the Mid-Autumn Festival (usually in September or October), when the full moon is traditionally at its brightest and roundest. Visitors can take special evening boat tours to witness this spectacle, though tickets must be booked well in advance for festival nights as they sell out quickly.
Leigfeng Pagoda
The Leigfeng Pagoda is located to the south of the West Lake. It was constructed by the king of the Wuyue Kingdom to celebrate his concubine’s pregnancy. It was damaged and renovated several times later. If you stand on the pagoda, which is over 230 feet (70 meters) you can truly enjoy the panoramic view of the lake.
The original Leifeng Pagoda was built in 975 AD during the Five Dynasties period but collapsed in 1924 due to local superstition that bricks from the pagoda had magical properties, leading people to remove bricks over centuries. The current pagoda was reconstructed in 2002 on the original foundation after extensive archaeological excavations revealed important Buddhist relics and inscriptions. The modern reconstruction features five stories and incorporates advanced engineering, including a copper and steel frame covered with traditional architectural elements. Inside, visitors can view the excavated foundation of the original pagoda through a glass floor, along with exhibitions about the pagoda’s history. An elevator takes visitors to the upper levels, where observation decks offer 360-degree views of West Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Nanping Hill
The hill is less than 100 meters high, but it’s 1,000 meters long. The Jingci Temple in Nanping Hill was built in 954 during the Wuyue Kingdom era. Also, Xingjiao Temple was constructed in 972 during the Northern Song Dynasty era.
Nanping Hill forms part of the scenic backdrop that frames West Lake from the south and is renowned for its “Evening Bell at Nanping Hill” – one of the classic Ten Scenes of West Lake. The Jingci Temple houses a massive bronze bell weighing over 10 tons, cast during the Song Dynasty. Every New Year’s Eve, the temple performs a bell-ringing ceremony where the bell is struck 108 times to symbolize the elimination of 108 worldly troubles according to Buddhist tradition. Thousands gather to witness this powerful cultural ritual. The hill is also home to several tea plantations producing high-quality Longjing tea. Visitors can hike along well-maintained paths that offer progressive views of West Lake, with strategically placed pavilions providing rest areas and viewing platforms.
Hefang Street
While not directly on West Lake, Hefang Street (also known as Qinghefang Ancient Street) is just a short walk away and offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Hangzhou culture and commerce. This pedestrian street has been meticulously restored to reflect Ming and Qing Dynasty architectural styles. The 460-meter-long thoroughfare is lined with traditional medicine shops, tea houses, silk stores, and workshops where artisans practice traditional crafts like paper folding, umbrella making, and fan painting. Visitors can watch demonstrations, purchase authentic handcrafted souvenirs, and sample local delicacies from numerous food stalls and restaurants. The street becomes particularly lively in the evening when lanterns illuminate the historic buildings.
Don’t forget about the show!
There is a musical fountain on the lake and it can be a feast for your eyes. You can watch this 15 minutes show for free. If you were lucky, you would also catch some traditional folklore performances with singing, music, and dancing around the lake to cap off a beautiful day in West Lake.
The musical fountain show takes place near the eastern shore of the lake by Hubin Road. Shows are typically scheduled several times each evening, with the first performance starting around 7:00 PM and subsequent shows running every 30 minutes until 8:30 PM (times may vary seasonally). The fountains can reach heights of up to 20 meters and are choreographed to both traditional Chinese music and contemporary international pieces. For the best viewing experience, arrive at least 20 minutes before showtime to secure a good spot along the lakefront promenade. During national holidays and special events, the fountain shows are often enhanced with special lighting effects and extended performances.
West Lake: A Romantic Spot Based on Legends…
There is a love story integrated with the lake, which happened between Bai Suzhen and Xu Xi’an. In this story, Bai Suzhen is a white snake spirit and Xu Xi’an is a mortal. These first met on a boat on the Lake and fell in love with each other. Soon after they got married, but something evil was at work for their destiny.
The evil monk Fa Hai imprisoned Xu Xi’an and separated the couple. Bai Suzhen fought back and tried fearlessly to release her husband. But her courage didn’t work and was imprisoned under the Leifeng Pagoda next to the lake. In the end, they were both rescued by Xiao Qing, Bai Suzhen’s sister and the couple lived happily ever after and marked the lake to be forever a romantic place for lovers.
This ancient folktale, known as “The Legend of the White Snake,” dates back over 1,000 years and remains one of China’s Four Great Folktales. The story has evolved over centuries but always centers on themes of forbidden love, transformation, and devotion that transcends physical boundaries. The tale has been adapted into countless operas, films, television series, and novels. Many versions of the story end tragically, with Bai Suzhen imprisoned forever beneath Leifeng Pagoda, though modern retellings often prefer the happier ending. The legend is so deeply connected to West Lake that many visitors specifically seek out Broken Bridge (where the couple first met) and Leifeng Pagoda as pilgrimage sites. During the annual Broken Bridge Festival in winter, couples visit the bridge to symbolize eternal love that can withstand any hardship.
Enduring Memories of the Hangzhou Show
This is a vast show focusing on the folklore between Xu Xi’an and Bai Suzhen and the sad story of Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai’s love. The show represents 5 acts, and its fantastic music, lighting, and dance assure you to have a memorable time here. Two performances are held every day.
Created by renowned director Zhang Yimou, who also designed the opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, “Enduring Memories of Hangzhou” (also called “Impression West Lake”) is the world’s first water stage performance, with the entire show taking place on the lake surface. The performance features over 300 professionally trained actors and actresses who appear to walk on water using a stage built just below the water’s surface. The five acts – “Encounter,” “Falling in Love,” “Parting,” “Memory,” and “Impression” – combine elements of traditional Chinese theater with modern technology, including spectacular lighting, sound, and special effects. The evening shows incorporate West Lake’s natural setting with distant pagodas and mountains illuminated as part of the backdrop. Performances run year-round except during extreme weather conditions, with shows at 7:30 PM and 9:00 PM. It’s advisable to book tickets at least one day in advance during peak tourist season (May- October).
Best Time to Visit West Lake
West Lake offers unique experiences in each season, making it a year-round destination. Spring (March- May) brings cherry and peach blossoms, comfortable temperatures (10-22°C), and the renowned “Spring Dawn at Su Causeway” scene. Summer (June- August) showcases lotus flowers in full bloom across the lake, though temperatures can reach 33°C with frequent rainfall and higher humidity. Autumn (September- November) offers pleasant weather (15-25°C) and spectacular foliage as maple trees turn vibrant red and orange, particularly around Lingyin Temple and the northern hills. Winter (December- February) transforms the landscape when snowfall creates the magical “Snow-covered Broken Bridge” scene, though temperatures can drop to 0°C. To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting on weekdays and planning your visit outside Chinese national holidays.
Tourist Guide
| By metro | |
|---|---|
| To Broken Bridge or Bai Causeway | Take metro line 1 to Longxiangqiao. When you reach there, walk toward the west to get to the Lakeside Park (Music Fountain) or toward the north to Broken Bridge or Bai Causeway. |
| To the Wushan Mountain area. | Take the same metro to Ding’an Road. When you reach there, toward the west to get to the to lakeside Nanshan Mountain area or toward the south to Wushan Mountain area. |
| By Bus | |
| To Su Causeway | Take bus 4, 31, 51, 52, 87, 314, 315, 334, 822, jy6, y2 or y10 |
| To Lingyin | Take bus 7, 324, 807, j1, or y2 |
| To Yuemiao | Take bus 7, 27, 51, 52 or 118 |
| To Shuangfeng or Longjingsi (Longjing Temple) | Take bus 27 or 87. |
| To Hubin | Take bus 7 or 25 |
Prices
| Enduring Memories of Hangzhou Show | |
|---|---|
| Ordinary Seats | 360 Yuan for adults and 240 Yuan for children between 3.9 to 4.9 ft |
| VIP Seats (first five rows) | 400 Yuan for adults and 270 Yuan for children between 3.9 to 4.9 ft |
| VIP Seats on the Upper Floor of the Boat | 680 Yuan |
| Distinguished Seats | 680 Yuan |
| Entrance Tickets | |
| Leifeng Pagoda | 40 Yuan for adults and free for children less than 3.9 ft |
| Three Pools Mirroring the Moon | CNY 55 (includes boat tickets) |
| Boat Rentals | Standard rowing boats: 80 Yuan per hour; Painted dragon boats: 240-300 Yuan |
| Lingyin Temple | 45 Yuan (additional 30 Yuan for Feilai Feng scenic area) |
Opening Hours
| West Lake | |
|---|---|
| Every day | All-day long |
| Leifeng Pagoda | |
| March 16 – April | 08:00 – 19:00 |
| May – October | 08:00 – 20:00 |
| November – March | 15: 08:00 – 17:30 |
| Three Pools Mirroring the Moon | |
| Every day | 8:00- 17:00 |
| Lingyin Temple | |
| Every day | 7:30 – 18:00 (summer); 8:00 – 17:00 (winter) |
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting West Lake
For the most enjoyable experience at West Lake, consider these practical tips:
Getting Around: While the entire lake circuit is approximately 15km, the West Lake Scenic Area offers convenient transportation options. The West Lake Sightseeing Bus operates three routes covering major attractions with unlimited rides for 40 Yuan per day. Electric sightseeing cars provide hop-on-hop-off service around the lake for similar pricing.
Stay Connected: Free Wi-Fi is available in most areas around West Lake. Look for “Hangzhou Free WiFi” networks in public spaces. The “Hangzhou Travel” mobile app provides offline maps, attraction information, and real-time translation services.
Best Photo Spots: For stunning photographs, visit Broken Bridge during sunrise, Leifeng Pagoda for sunset panoramas, and Three Pools Mirroring the Moon for reflective water scenes. The northern shoreline offers excellent city skyline views across the water.
Cultural Etiquette: When visiting temples around the lake, dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. Remove hats when entering temple buildings and speak quietly in these sacred spaces. Photography may be restricted in certain areas of religious sites.
Besides the boats, there are battery cars that can help you to have a short trip around the West Outer. The ticket price is 40 yuan and the tour duration is about 70 minutes. So, at the time of visiting West Lake, try these battery cars as well. We would be grateful if you could share your comments and questions about West Lake with us. Our professional guides will reply to your questions as soon as possible.
Accommodation Options Near West Lake
Finding the perfect place to stay near West Lake enhances your Hangzhou experience. Here are some accommodation options at different price points:
Luxury Hotels: For premium lakeside accommodations, consider the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake or the Shangri-La Hotel Hangzhou, both offering spectacular views and world-class amenities. These properties feature traditional Chinese garden designs harmoniously integrated with modern luxury.
Boutique Hotels: For a more intimate experience, boutique hotels like the Lingyin Resort and the West Lake State Guest House offer unique character with traditional Chinese architecture and garden settings. These properties typically have fewer rooms but provide personalized service and authentic cultural experiences.
Mid-Range Options: Several international chain hotels including Mercure, Holiday Inn, and Ibis are located within walking distance of the lake, offering reliable quality at moderate prices. Local hotel chains like Jinjiang Inn and Home Inn provide comfortable accommodations with modern amenities and often include traditional Chinese breakfast options.
Budget Stays: Backpackers and budget travelers can find numerous hostels and guesthouses in the Nanshan Road area, just a short walk from the lake. These affordable options often include dormitory-style accommodations as well as private rooms, with shared facilities and common areas for socializing with other travelers.
For the best experience, book accommodations on the north or east sides of the lake for convenient access to restaurants, shopping, and public transportation. Hotels on the west side offer more tranquility but require additional transportation to reach city amenities.
