Slender West Lake (Shou Xi Hu)

Slender West Lake (Shou Xi Hu) is a long, narrow lake park at 28 Daxu Road in Hanjiang District, Yangzhou, Jiangsu. Its name reflects its slim shape compared with the broad West Lake of Hangzhou. The lake developed from an old moat and was landscaped during the Qing dynasty, when wealthy salt merchants built gardens, pavilions and bridges along its banks to welcome the Qianlong Emperor. The park runs for several kilometres and is designed to be seen from the water and the shore, with scenery that changes as visitors walk or take a boat. The best-known landmarks are the Five Pavilion Bridge (Wuting Qiao), an arched bridge topped with five pavilions that seems to resemble a lotus, and the White Pagoda (Baita), a Lamaist-style stupa said to have been built in imitation of the one in Beijing's Beihai Park. Other features include the Twenty-Four Bridge, Xiaojinshan (Little Golden Hill), the Fishing Terrace and willow-lined embankments. Boats run along the lake, and many visitors combine walking with a boat ride. A visit takes two to three hours, and longer for those who enjoy leisurely strolling. Early morning gives soft light and fewer crowds, and spring blossom and willow greenery are especially attractive. Weekends and holidays are busy, particularly around the bridge. Buses and Didi run from Yangzhou East Station in about 25 minutes, and the park sits near the Daming Temple and Dongguan Street, so it fits into a day tour of the old city. Signage includes English and audio guides are available.