Hangzhou West Lake: The Soul of Chinese Poetry

West Lake (Xihu) in Hangzhou is the most famous landscape in China, a 2,400-year-old lake that has inspired poets, painters, and lovers for centuries. The lake, islands, pagodas, and surrounding hills create a scene that defined Chinese landscape aesthetics.

The Legend of the White Snake

West Lake is associated with the legend of the White Snake, one of China four great folk tales. Bai Suzhen, a snake spirit who took human form, fell in love with scholar Xu Xian. Their tragic romance has been dramatized in opera, film, and literature. The Leifeng Pagoda, where Bai Suzhen was imprisoned, overlooks the lake.

The Ten Views

Centuries of poets and painters identified ten classic views of West Lake: Spring Dawn on the Su Causeway, Lotuses in the Breeze at Crooked Creek, Orioles Singing in the Willows, the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, and others. Each view represents a different aspect of the lakes seasonal beauty.

Islands and Pagodas

Three islands in the lake create the classic Chinese garden effect of separating and connecting space. Huixing Island has pavilions and rock gardens. Xiaoying Island (Lord Shen) is the smallest. The Three Pools, with small pagodas, create the famous view of three moons reflected in the water.

Su Causeway

The Su Causeway, built by poet-governor Su Dongpo in the 11th century, stretches 2.7 kilometers across the lake. Lined with willows and plum trees, the causeway creates a bridge between North and South Lakes. Walking or cycling the causeway is the quintessential West Lake experience.

Tea and Food

Hangzhou is famous for Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, grown on the hillsides west of the lake. West Lake vinegar fish and beggars chicken are local specialties. Teahouses around the lake offer lake views with tea service.

Getting There

Hangzhou is 45 minutes by high-speed train from Shanghai. The lake is free to walk; some islands and pavilias require tickets. Spring and autumn are the best seasons. Rent a bike or walk the causeway.