West Lake

West Lake (Xihu in Chinese) is a famous fresh water lake located in central Hangzhou, in Zhejiang province of eastern China. The lake is divided by three causeways called Sudi (苏堤) , Baidi (白堤), and Yanggong di (杨公堤).
West Lake is located in the western area of Hangzhou City. It is surrounded by mountains on three sides, with an area of around 6.5 square kilometers. The circumference is around 15 kilometers.
West Lake is not only famous for its picturesque landscape, it is also associated with many scholars and national heroes. In addition, many ancient buildings in surrounding areas are among the most cherished national treasures of China, with significant artistic value.
Due to its prominent historical and cultural status among Chinese scenic resorts, West Lake was elected as a National Key Scenic Resort in 1982.Moreover, the picture of "Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon" was printed on the backs of RMB one yuan bill issued in 2004.
It is suggested to view the West Lake from a row boat for The Ten Scenes of West Lake (西湖十景), each marked by a stele with the name written in the calligraphy of the Emperor Qianlong Emperor, which are:
Spring Dawn on the Su Causeway (苏堤春晓)
Orioles Singing in the Willows (柳浪闻莺)
Viewing Fish at Flower Pond (花港观鱼)
Winery Yard and Lotus Pool (曲苑风荷)
Evening Bell Ringing at the Nanping Hill (南屏晚钟)
Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake (平湖秋月)
Leifeng Pagoda in Evening Glow (雷峰夕照)
Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (三潭印月)
Lingering Snow on Broken Bridge (断桥残雪)
Twin Peaks Piercing the Clouds (双峰插云) - The "Jungfrau of West Lake"
The West Lake is said to be the incarnation of Xi Shi, one of the Four Beauties of ancient China. Hence, since ancient times, the West Lake was associated with a large number of romantic poets, profound philosophers, national heroes and heroines. It is nice to wander around the lake.