West Lake (Xi Hu)

West Lake sits along the western edge of Hangzhou's Xihu District, its shoreline traced by willow-lined causeways, arched stone bridges, and walled gardens that have inspired Chinese painting and poetry since the Tang dynasty. Visitors typically enter along Bai Causeway or Su Causeway, both crossing the lake and connecting its northern and southern shores, with views toward Solitary Hill Island and the pagoda-topped southern peaks. A full loop on foot covers roughly 15 kilometers, but most visitors combine a walk along one causeway with a short boat crossing to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, the small island whose stone lanterns appear on the RMB 1 note. Leifeng Pagoda, rebuilt on its original Song-dynasty foundation, offers an elevated view back across the water toward the Hangzhou skyline and is best climbed in late afternoon. Su Causeway is planted with peach and willow trees, so late March through April brings blossom season, while October and November bring osmanthus scent and turning maple leaves along the northern shore. Early morning before 8AM is when local residents practice tai chi along the causeways and tour groups have not yet arrived; the lake grows crowded by mid-morning and stays busy through the afternoon, especially on weekends and Chinese public holidays. A typical visit lasts three to six hours, long enough to walk one causeway, visit one or two gardens such as Flower Harbor or Orioles Singing in the Willows, and take a boat to the islands. Photographers favor Duan Bridge at sunrise for the classic 'melting snow' view and the Leifeng Pagoda terrace at dusk. Because the lake and its parks are unenclosed public space, there is no single ticketed entry, and visitors move freely between the causeways, gardens, and lakeside teahouses that serve Longjing tea grown in the surrounding hills.