Hangzhou Xi Hu: A Timeless Journey Through Its Ten Iconic Scenes
Introduction: The Timeless Charm of Hangzhou Xi Hu
For over 800 years, since its designation in the Southern Song Dynasty (1271-1368), the Ten West Lake Scenes have stood as the soul of hangzhou xi hu (West Lake). Blending natural elegance with profound cultural heritage, these ten landmarks weave together mountains, waters, bridges, pagodas, causeways, and temples, each holding unique seasonal secrets and historical tales. More than just hangzhou tourist attractions, they embody the poetic charm of “Equally lovely in light makeup or heavy powder,” making them indispensable stops on any hangzhou travel itinerary. This guide offers an immersive journey through every scene, revealing why “a trip to Hangzhou is incomplete without visiting West Lake, and a visit to West Lake is incomplete without admiring its Ten Scenes.”
Dawn on Su Causeway: A 2.8-Kilometer Poem of Spring
Ranked first among the Ten Scenes, Dawn on Su Causeway stretches 2.8 kilometers from Nanping Mountain in the south to Qixia Ridge in the north. Constructed in 1090 during the Northern Song Dynasty by Su Shi, a renowned poet and then governor of Hangzhou, the causeway was built using mud dredged from West Lake. Spring transforms it into a fairyland: peach blossoms blush on branches, weeping willows sway gently, and the lake shimmers like a jade mirror. This spring is not a single burst of color, but the freshness of “willows lining the white sand embankment” and the vitality of “clusters of peach blossoms blooming freely,” inviting you to slow down and immerse yourself in nature’s rebirth.
Core Scenic Beauty
The magic of Dawn on Su Causeway lies in its layered springtime palette: tender green grass dotted with wildflowers covers the ground; weeping willows with pale yellow new leaves brush the water’s surface, creating ripples; pink and white peach blossoms bloom like clouds overhead; distant mountains and boats on the lake complete the three-dimensional painting. Early mornings, when mist lingers, the causeway feels like a veil-shrouded beauty—faint bridge silhouettes, swaying willows, and distant bird songs weave a dreamy “misty willows and painted bridges” atmosphere, solidifying its status as one of the best places to visit in hangzhou for spring scenery.
Historical Origins
During Su Shi’s governorship, he noticed West Lake was severely silted, drying up farmland and threatening local livelihoods. He launched a large-scale dredging project, and the excavated mud and aquatic plants were piled to form this north-south causeway. Initially lined with six stone bridges, it was later named “Su Causeway” to honor his contribution. By the Ming and Qing dynasties, it had become a favorite spot for scholars and artists to admire spring scenery, inspiring poems like “Su Causeway’s six bridges link the view, with willows and peaches planted alternately.” Today, it remains deeply rooted in hangzhou xi hu history as the most beloved spring destination.
Must-Experience Highlights
- Admire Scenery from the Six Bridges: Yadi Bridge (Pressure Embankment Bridge) offers the best panoramic view—overlooking West Lake’s entire expanse, with peach blossoms, willows, waters, and distant mountains all in sight. Yingbo Bridge (Wave Reflecting Bridge) is adjacent to Flower Harbor View Fish, allowing for a seamless hangzhou day trip connection.
- Early Morning Stroll: Visit between 6:30-8:00 AM to avoid tour groups. At this time, mist still lingers, the air is fresh, and you can witness locals practicing morning exercises or fishing, experiencing the authentic charm of Su Causeway.
- Encounter Flower Seas: From mid-March to mid-April, when peach blossoms are in full bloom, a peach tree stands every 5 meters along the causeway, paired with weeping willows on both sides, forming the classic “pink peach blossoms and green willows” scene. Squat down for low-angle shots to capture the dynamic beauty of falling petals.
Practical Information
| Practical Information | Details |
| Address | Su Causeway, West Lake Scenic Area, Xihu District, Hangzhou |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24/7 |
| Transportation | 15-minute walk from Exit C of Longxiangqiao Station (Metro Line 1); Bus 7/51 to Su Causeway Station |
| Best Time to Visit | Mid-March to mid-April (peach blossom season), 6:30-8:00 AM |
Curved Yard and Lotus Pool: Summer Serenity Among Blooming Lotuses
Located at the northern end of Su Causeway on the west side of West Lake, Curved Yard and Lotus Pool covers 14 hectares, focusing on the beauty of lotus flowers. Originally a royal winery during the Southern Song Dynasty, it was named for the harmonious blend of lotus fragrance and wine aroma in summer. Today, the scenic area features 15 lotus ponds with over 50 varieties, including red lotus, white lotus, and double lotus. In summer, dense lotus leaves form a green canopy, and blooming flowers exude a refreshing scent, making it an ideal hangzhou sightseeing spot for escaping the heat.
Core Scenic Beauty
The charm of Curved Yard and Lotus Pool lies in its “purity” and “fragrance”: Early mornings, lotus leaves glisten with dewdrops that reflect colorful light under the sun; at noon, layers of leaves provide natural shade, offering a cool retreat in the pavilion by the pool; in the evening, the setting sun gilds the flowers, and their reflections blend with the pink-purple sunset, creating a fairy-tale world. After rain, raindrops patter on the leaves and roll gently, leaving lotus flowers looking delicate and fresh—an enchanting sight for photographers.
Historical Origins
During the Southern Song Dynasty, this area served as an official winery (“Curved Yard”) near Jinsha Stream. Winemakers drew stream water for brewing and planted lotus flowers throughout the yard. Each summer, the combined aroma of lotus and wine attracted countless literati and poets, giving birth to the name “Curved Yard and Lotus Pool.” The winery declined in the Ming and Qing dynasties, and the lotus ponds shrank. In 1985, the Hangzhou government restored the scenic area, expanding the ponds to 14 hectares, introducing new lotus varieties, and adding pavilions and plank roads to revive its status as a iconic summer destination for hangzhou tour visitors.
Must-Experience Highlights
- Wander Through Lotus Ponds: Pass through the “Curved Yard and Lotus Pool” stone archway and walk along the plank roads to admire blooming lotus flowers up close. The main lotus area boasts the highest density of flowers, offering the best viewing experience.
- Admire Lotus After Rain: Visit 1-2 hours after summer rain. The washed leaves appear more vibrant, and water droplets on the flowers create a natural “filter,” enhancing the poetic atmosphere.
- Watch Sunset Over Lotus: Between 18:00-19:00, the setting sun casts a warm glow on the ponds, and the reflection of flowers and sky merges into a breathtaking scene.
Practical Information
| Practical Information | Details |
| Address | No. 89 Beishan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 7:30-17:30 (extended to 19:00 in summer) |
| Transportation | 20-minute walk from Exit B of Huanglong Cave Station (Metro Line 3); Bus 28/87 to Curved Yard and Lotus Pool Station |
| Best Time to Visit | Late June to early August (peak lotus season), 7:00-9:00 AM, 1-2 hours after rain |
Pinghu Qiuyue (Autumn Moon Over Calm Lake): Serenity Under the Moonlight
Situated at the western end of Bai Causeway, leaning against Gushan Mountain and facing the outer lake, Pinghu Qiuyue covers 6,000 square meters. It is the most serene of the Ten Scenes, offering an unobstructed view of the lake. On clear autumn nights, the bright moon hangs high, and its reflection shimmers on the calm water, creating a scene of “a vast expanse of lake and autumn sky merged as one.” Unlike the bustle of other hangzhou tourist spots, its beauty lies in tranquility, allowing visitors to feel the gentle poetry of xi hu lake under the moonlight.
Core Scenic Beauty
Pinghu Qiuyue’s allure lies in “moonlight” and “serenity”: On late autumn nights, the sky is crystal clear, and the bright moon casts a silver glow on the lake, making the water sparkle like scattered silver. Willow branches hang over the shore, their shadows blending with moonlight and lake reflections to form a peaceful night scene. Sitting in the “Pinghu Qiuyue” pavilion, you can only hear the gentle lapping of water and occasional insect chirps, forgetting the hustle and bustle of the world and immersing yourself in rare calm.
Historical Origins
The history of Pinghu Qiuyue dates back to the Southern Song Dynasty, when it was a viewing platform on Gushan Mountain famous for moon-gazing. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, a pavilion was built here, becoming a favorite spot for literati to compose poems under the moon. The Ming painter Wen Zhengming left a verse: “The autumn moon over Dongting reflects lake light, where sky and water stretch endlessly into the night.” After multiple renovations, the scenic area retains historical relics such as ancient pavilions and stone carvings, while adding viewing platforms and night lighting to enhance the experience for modern hangzhou trip visitors.
Must-Experience Highlights
- Moon-Gazing on Mid-Autumn Festival: Every 15th day of the 8th lunar month, this is the best spot to admire the moon on West Lake. The combination of bright moon, lake light, and mountain scenery creates an atmosphere of “A bright moon rises above the sea, bringing together people from far and wide.”
- Night Walk by the Lake: The soft night lighting of Pinghu Qiuyue makes it perfect for a stroll. Enjoy the panoramic view of West Lake under moonlight, with distant Leifeng Pagoda and Baochu Pagoda twinkling in the dark.
- Morning Mist Viewing: On autumn mornings, the lake is often shrouded in thin mist, making Pinghu Qiuyue appear like a fairyland—ideal for quiet photography enthusiasts.
Practical Information
| Practical Information | Details |
| Address | No. 3 Gushan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24/7 |
| Transportation | 20-minute walk from Exit C of Longxiangqiao Station (Metro Line 1); Bus 7/51 to Pinghu Qiuyue Station |
| Best Time to Visit | Late September to early October (clear autumn weather), 19:00-21:00 PM, 6:30-8:00 AM |
Duanqiao Canxue (Broken Bridge with Remnant Snow): Poetic Blank Canvas After Winter Snow
Located at the eastern end of Bai Causeway, connecting Gushan Mountain and the urban area, Broken Bridge is the most legendary of the Ten Scenes. This single-arch stone bridge, first built in the Tang Dynasty, stretches 13.4 meters long and 3.6 meters wide. It gained worldwide fame through the legend of “The Legend of the White Snake,” where Xu Xian and Bai Suzhen met on the bridge. Its most stunning feature appears after winter snow: when the sun shines, snow on the south-facing side melts, while the north-facing side remains covered, creating the illusion of a “broken” bridge—hence the name. It is the most representative winter of hangzhou xi hu.
Core Scenic Beauty
The beauty of Broken Bridge with Remnant Snow lies in its “wonder” and “charm”: After snow, West Lake is covered in white, and the bridge spans the frozen lake. The melted snow on the sunny side reveals the gray stone surface, contrasting with the snow-covered shady side, forming a unique “broken yet connected” scene. Distant mountains are blanketed in snow, and willow branches are adorned with ice crystals, while the bridge’s reflection shimmers on the lake—resembling an ink wash painting. At this moment, the bridge loses its usual bustle and gains a sense of tranquility and poetry, transporting visitors to a fairy-tale world.
Historical Origins
First built in the Tang Dynasty, the bridge was originally named “Duanjiaqiao” (Duan Family Bridge) and renamed “Broken Bridge” in the Song Dynasty. Besides the snow-induced “broken” appearance, another legend claims the bridge had a crack in the middle (later repaired). During the Southern Song Dynasty, it was listed as one of the Ten Scenes and underwent multiple renovations in the Ming and Qing dynasties. The legend of “The Legend of the White Snake” further elevated its fame as a symbol of love, attracting countless couples on hangzhou tour package itineraries.
Must-Experience Highlights
- Admire the Bridge After Snow: The best viewing period is 1-2 days after winter snow. At this time, the “broken” effect is most obvious, and photos taken with distant Leifeng Pagoda are stunning.
- Morning Rime Viewing: On early mornings after snow, low temperatures form rime on willow branches—white and crystal-clear, like jade trees and jade flowers, a rare and beautiful sight.
- Legend-Inspired Photo Shoot: Take photos at the “Broken Bridge with Remnant Snow” stele pavilion at the southern end of the bridge, recreating the classic meeting scene of Xu Xian and Bai Suzhen and feeling the romance of the legend.
Practical Information
| Practical Information | Details |
| Address | Eastern End of Bai Causeway, Xihu District, Hangzhou |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24/7 |
| Transportation | 10-minute walk from Exit C of Longxiangqiao Station (Metro Line 1); Bus 7/51 to Broken Bridge with Remnant Snow Station |
| Best Time to Visit | Late December to early February (after winter snow), 7:00-9:00 AM |
Leifeng Xizhao (Leifeng Pagoda at Sunset): A Millennium Legend in Tower Shadows
Perched atop Xizhao Mountain on the southern bank of West Lake, Leifeng Pagoda at Sunset is centered around Leifeng Pagoda—a 71.679-meter-tall pavilion-style tower and the most recognizable hangzhou tourist attraction among the Ten Scenes. First built in 977 AD during the Northern Song Dynasty, the pagoda is famous for its connection to “The Legend of the White Snake.” Despite being destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, it retains the stunning “sunset glow” scene. Its exterior features Song Dynasty-style wooden structures with upturned eaves and red walls, while the interior includes elevators and glass walkways, blending modern convenience with ancient charm.
Core Scenic Beauty
The allure of Leifeng Pagoda at Sunset lies in “the tower” and “the glow”: In the evening, the setting sun casts a golden hue on the pagoda, creating the classic “Leifeng Pagoda at Sunset” scene. At this moment, the tower’s reflection shimmers on the lake, merging with the colorful sunset and distant mountains to form a breathtaking picture. After 7 PM, warm yellow lights illuminate the tower, outlining its silhouette against the night sky—exquisitely romantic. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of West Lake, with Su Causeway and Bai Causeway winding like jade belts, and Three Pools Mirroring the Moon and Gushan Mountain clearly visible.
Historical Origins
Leifeng Pagoda was first built in 977 AD by Qian Chu, King of Wuyue, to enshrine Sakyamuni Buddha’s hair relics. During the Southern Song Dynasty, it became one of the Ten Scenes but was repeatedly destroyed by wars and lightning strikes. In 1924, the pagoda collapsed into ruins. In 2001, the Hangzhou government launched a reconstruction project, and the new Leifeng Pagoda opened to the public on September 25, 2002. Retaining its original style while integrating modern architectural technology, the pagoda’s underground palace unearthed precious cultural relics such as gilded bronze Buddha statues, jade bracelets, and scriptures—testaments to hangzhou xi hu history.
Must-Experience Highlights
- Climb the Pagoda to Admire Sunset: Visit between 17:00-18:30 to enjoy both the golden pagoda under the setting sun and the panoramic view of West Lake, experiencing the artistic conception of “tower shadow stretching across the river.”
- Admire “The Legend of the White Snake” Wood Carvings: The wooden murals on the 2nd to 4th floors are artistic treasures. Over 200 camphor wood carvings depict classic scenes such as “Borrowing an Umbrella by the Lake,” “Revealing True Form on Dragon Boat Festival,” and “Flooding Jinshan Temple,” with vivid characters and intricate details.
- Admire Tower Lights at Night: After 7 PM, the pagoda’s warm yellow lights blend with the night scenery of West Lake, making it the perfect spot for shooting night photos of xi hu lake.
Practical Information
| Practical Information | Details |
| Address | No. 15 Nanshan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou |
| Ticket Price | ¥40/person (50% discount for students) |
| Opening Hours | 8:00-20:00 (last entry at 19:30) |
| Transportation | 15-minute walk from Exit C of Ding’an Road Station (Metro Line 1); Bus 4/31 to Jingsi Station |
| Best Time to Visit | 17:00-19:00 (sunset + night view), 7:30-9:00 AM (fewer people, misty beauty) |
Liulang Wenying (Orioles Singing in Willows): Spring Rhythm Among Willow Branches
Located on the southeastern bank of West Lake, stretching from Qingbo Gate in the south to Yongjin Gate in the north, Orioles Singing in Willows covers 21 hectares. Centered around “willows” and “orioles,” it was once part of the Southern Song Dynasty imperial garden “Jujing Garden” and named for its swaying willow “waves” and melodious oriole songs. Today, the scenic area features over 5,000 willow trees of more than 20 varieties, including weeping willows and dry willows. In spring, green willow branches sway gently, and orioles sing among the leaves—creating a vibrant scene that captures the essence of spring for hangzhou travel guide recommendations.
Core Scenic Beauty
The charm of Orioles Singing in Willows lies in “waves” and “songs”: In spring, gentle breezes make thousands of willow branches sway like green waves—hence “willow waves”; orioles, thrushes, and other birds sing melodiously, blending with wind and water sounds to create the “singing orioles” experience. Walking along the lakeside path, you’ll be surrounded by swaying willows and green grass, with occasional falling petals and warbling birds—transporting you to a pastoral poetic realm. In summer, dense willow leaves form a natural cool canopy, while in autumn, yellowing leaves contrast with osmanthus flowers, offering a unique charm.
Historical Origins
The history of Orioles Singing in Willows dates back to the Southern Song Dynasty, when it served as the imperial garden “Jujing Garden” for Emperor Xiaozong. The garden was filled with willows and raised numerous orioles, becoming a favorite spot for royal nobles to admire flowers and listen to birds. After the fall of the Southern Song Dynasty, the garden declined, and willow forests thinned. After the founding of New China, the Hangzhou government renovated the scenic area on a large scale, replanting willows and restoring the “Orioles Singing in Willows” scene. Today, the area retains historical relics such as “Jujing Garden” stone carvings and a Qing Dynasty “Orioles Singing in Willows” stele pavilion, preserving millennial memories.
Must-Experience Highlights
- Admire Willows and Listen to Orioles in Spring: March to April is the best time. As willows sprout new leaves and orioles sing among the branches, sit on a bench near the “Oriole Listening Pavilion,” close your eyes, and immerse yourself in the vitality of spring.
- Walk and Take Photos in Willow Forests: The “Willow Wave Bridge” is an ideal photo spot. Standing on the bridge, with willow forests behind and West Lake in front, it’s perfect for ancient-style photos—wear light-colored clothing to contrast with the green willows.
- Morning Exercise and Oxygen Breathing: Between 6:00-8:00 AM, locals practice tai chi, square dance, and morning exercises here. With fresh air and high negative ion levels, it’s a great way to experience Hangzhou’s slow life.
Practical Information
| Practical Information | Details |
| Address | No. 87 Nanshan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 6:00-21:00 |
| Transportation | 10-minute walk from Exit B of Ding’an Road Station (Metro Line 1); Bus 4/31 to Orioles Singing in Willows Station |
| Best Time to Visit | Mid-March to late April (green willows and singing orioles), 6:00-8:00 AM, 17:00-19:00 PM |
Huagang Guanyu (Flower Harbor View Fish): An Ecological Picture of Blooms and Fish
Located on the southwestern bank of West Lake, at the southern end of Su Causeway, Flower Harbor View Fish covers 20 hectares. Centered around “flowers, harbors, and fish,” it was originally a private garden during the Southern Song Dynasty. Named for a stream flowing from Huajia Mountain into West Lake (“flower harbor”) and the large number of red fish raised for viewing (“view fish”), the scenic area now includes red fish ponds, peony gardens, peony nurseries, and cherry blossom valleys. With flowers blooming year-round and fish frolicking in the water, it is an ecological paradise blending natural and cultural landscapes—perfect for families on a hangzhou day trip.
Core Scenic Beauty
The beauty of Flower Harbor View Fish lies in “prosperity” and “joy”: In the red fish pond, thousands of red, golden, and black koi fish swim in groups or compete for food, creating a lively scene; the adjacent peony garden features over 300 peony varieties, blooming in vibrant colors in spring, complementing the fish in the water. In summer, lotus flowers bloom on the pond, with koi swimming among the leaves—resembling a pastoral painting of “fish playing among lotus leaves”; in autumn, osmanthus and chrysanthemum flowers bloom, filling the air with fragrance and attracting numerous visitors.
Historical Origins
The history of Flower Harbor View Fish dates back to the Southern Song Dynasty, when it was the private garden of Zhang Cheng, Minister of Personnel. The garden featured ponds for fish and various flowers, becoming a famous private garden in Hangzhou. It declined in the Ming and Qing dynasties, with fish populations decreasing. In 1952, the Hangzhou government expanded the scenic area, digging red fish ponds, replanting flowers and trees, and introducing koi and goldfish varieties, transforming it into the most ecologically vibrant of the Ten Scenes. Today, a stone tablet inscribed with “Flower Harbor View Fish” by Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty remains by the red fish pond, serving as a landmark of the scenic area.
Must-Experience Highlights
- Feed Red Fish: Fish food is available for purchase near the red fish pond (¥5/bag). Feeding the koi fish as they compete for food is a fun activity, especially for families with children.
- Admire Peonies in the Garden: Mid-April to early May is the peak peony blooming season. The garden features peonies in various colors, including red, pink, white, and purple, with rare varieties such as “Yao Huang” (Yellow Yao) and “Wei Zi” (Purple Wei) being the most eye-catching.
- Wander Through Cherry Blossom Valley: Late March to early April, cherry blossoms in the valley bloom like pink clouds, with petals falling like snow—an ideal spot for photo shoots.
Practical Information
| Practical Information | Details |
| Address | No. 1 Yanggongdi, Xihu District, Hangzhou |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 7:30-17:00 (extended to 19:00 in summer) |
| Transportation | 25-minute walk from Exit C of Longxiangqiao Station (Metro Line 1); Bus 4/31 to Flower Harbor View Fish Station |
| Best Time to Visit | Late March to early May (blooming flowers and lively fish), September-October (osmanthus blooming), 7:30-9:00 AM (fewer people) |
Shuangfeng Chayun (Two Peaks Piercing the Clouds): Ink Wash Painting in Mist
Located southwest of West Lake, Two Peaks Piercing the Clouds features South Peak (257 meters above sea level) and North Peak (314 meters above sea level), separated by approximately 5 kilometers. The only one of the Ten Scenes requiring “distant viewing,” its beauty lies in early mornings or after rain, when mist shrouds the mountains and the peaks pierce through the clouds like two jade pillars—hence the name. It showcases the hazy beauty of West Lake’s landscapes, making it a unique hangzhou sightseeing spot.
Core Scenic Beauty
The charm of Two Peaks Piercing the Clouds lies in “haziness” and “wonder”: On early mornings, West Lake is often covered in thin mist, with the peaks of South and North Peaks looming faintly—resembling blank spaces in an ink wash painting, exuding a profound artistic conception; after rain, mist flows between the mountains, with peaks occasionally appearing and disappearing, creating ever-changing scenes that feel like a fairyland. Viewing from Su Causeway or Bai Causeway, the two peaks stand symmetrically, blending with the lake and causeways to form a harmonious landscape painting, embodying West Lake’s elegant “light makeup” beauty.
Historical Origins
The name “Two Peaks Piercing the Clouds” first appeared during the Southern Song Dynasty, when literati and poets admired the towering, cloud-shrouded peaks from West Lake and listed them as one of the Ten Scenes. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the area became a popular spot for mountain climbing and viewing, inspiring poems like “South and North Peaks stand like two green screens, sending clear mist morning and evening.” Today, both peaks feature hiking trails and cable cars, allowing visitors to climb to the top and enjoy a panoramic view of West Lake—experiencing the grandeur of “seeing all mountains as small.”
Must-Experience Highlights
- View the Two Peaks from Afar: The best viewing spots are Yadi Bridge on Su Causeway or Pinghu Qiuyue on Bai Causeway. Visit early in the morning or after rain to witness the classic “two peaks piercing the clouds” scene, and bring a camera to capture the changing mist.
- Climb North Peak: Take the cable car (¥30 one-way up, ¥20 one-way down) or hike to the top of North Peak. At 314 meters above sea level, it offers the best panoramic view of West Lake, and on clear days, you can even see the outline of Qiandao Lake.
- Admire Red Maples in Autumn: October to November, maple and tallow trees on the mountains turn red, creating a stunning scene of red leaves against mist—like a fairyland.
Practical Information
| Practical Information | Details |
| Address | South Peak and North Peak, Xihu District, Hangzhou (Viewing spots: Yadi Bridge on Su Causeway, Pinghu Qiuyue on Bai Causeway) |
| Ticket Price | Free for distant viewing; North Peak cable car round-trip ticket ¥50/person, free for hiking |
| Opening Hours | 24/7 (cable car operating hours: 8:00-17:00) |
| Transportation | To North Peak: Take Bus 7/27 to Lingyin Temple Station, then walk 15 minutes to the cable car entrance |
| Best Time to Visit | April-May (after spring rain, more mist), October-November (autumn maple viewing), 6:30-8:30 AM |
Nanping Wanzhong (Nanping Evening Bell): Distant Bell Tones in Dusk
Located on Nanping Mountain on the southwestern bank of West Lake, Nanping Evening Bell is the only one of the Ten Scenes centered around “sound”—the bell tones of Jingci Temple. Composed mainly of limestone, Nanping Mountain features jagged rocks and numerous caves. When the bell of Jingci Temple rings, the sound waves echo through the caves, creating a unique effect of “melodious bell tones spreading across West Lake.” In the evening, as the sun sets, the bell tones blend with the dusk scenery, creating a profound and distant artistic conception—hence the name.
Core Scenic Beauty
The beauty of Nanping Evening Bell lies in “sound” and “dusk”: Around 17:00 each day, monks at Jingci Temple ring the bell 108 times. The deep and resonant bell tones echo through the caves of Nanping Mountain and spread across the lake. At this moment, the setting sun gilds Nanping Mountain, and the reflections of the mountain and temple shimmer on the lake. The bell tones spread in sync with the lake ripples, calming people’s minds. Sitting on a bench by West Lake, listening to the distant bell tones and watching the lake gradually calm in the dusk, it feels like all worries are washed away, leaving only inner peace.
Historical Origins
The history of Nanping Evening Bell dates back to the Southern Song Dynasty, when Jingci Temple was one of the most famous Buddhist temples near West Lake. Its bell weighed over 10 tons and produced a loud, resonant sound. After the fall of the Southern Song Dynasty, Jingci Temple was repeatedly destroyed by wars, and the bell was damaged. During the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty, the temple was rebuilt and a new bell was cast; the bell was destroyed again during the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty. It was not until 1986 that the Hangzhou government recast a 12.5-ton bronze bell based on the Qing Dynasty bell, restoring the “Nanping Evening Bell” scene. Today, the bell has become an iconic cultural symbol of Hangzhou, and a “ringing the New Year bell” event is held every New Year’s Eve.
Must-Experience Highlights
- Listen to the Evening Bell: Around 17:00 each day, Jingci Temple rings the bell 108 times. You can listen near the temple’s bell tower or view from afar at Su Causeway or Flower Harbor View Fish, feeling the distant and melodious bell tones.
- Night Tour of Jingci Temple: Enter the temple in the evening to visit buildings such as the Mahavira Hall and Arhat Hall, experiencing the solemnity of Buddhist culture. Wait for the bell to ring and enjoy the beautiful artistic conception of “bell tones accompanying dusk.”
- Visit Ji Gong Hall: Jingci Temple is home to Ji Gong Hall, dedicated to the statue of Living Buddha Ji Gong. Legend has it that Ji Gong practiced at Jingci Temple, and the murals in the hall depict his legendary stories—ideal for cultural enthusiasts.
Practical Information
| Practical Information | Details |
| Address | No. 56 Nanshan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou (inside Jingci Temple) |
| Ticket Price | Jingci Temple ticket ¥10/person |
| Opening Hours | 7:30-17:00 (last entry at 16:30), evening bell ringing around 17:00 |
| Transportation | 15-minute walk from Exit C of Ding’an Road Station (Metro Line 1); Bus 4/31 to Jingsi Station |
| Best Time to Visit | 16:30-17:30 (visit the temple + listen to the evening bell), autumn (clear weather, bell tones spread farther) |
Santan Yinyue (Three Pools Mirroring the Moon): A Moonlit Masterpiece in the Lake Center
Located in the center of West Lake, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon is the crown of the Ten Scenes and the largest island on West Lake, covering approximately 7 hectares. Divided into four small lakes by “field”-shaped causeways, the island features three 2.5-meter-tall stone pagodas—built by Su Shi in 1089 during the Northern Song Dynasty to mark water depth and prevent silting. On Mid-Autumn nights, when the bright moon hangs high, lighting candles inside the pagodas creates a stunning scene of “one moon in the sky, three reflections in the lake”—hence the name. It is also depicted on the back of the 1-yuan RMB note, making it one of China’s most recognizable hangzhou tourist spots.
Core Scenic Beauty
The charm of Three Pools Mirroring the Moon lies in “moonlight” and “reflections”: On Mid-Autumn nights, the lake is as calm as a mirror, and the three stone pagodas stand gracefully in the water. Lighting candles inside the pagodas makes light shine through five small holes on each tower, resembling stars falling into the lake. At this moment, the bright moon in the sky, the tower reflections in the water, and the candlelight blend together, forming three clear moon reflections that complement the sky’s moon—creating the classic “Three Pools Mirroring the Moon” scene. The island is equally stunning during the day: shaded by green trees, with scattered pavilions and clear water where koi fish swim. Walking along the “field”-shaped causeways, you can admire the unique landscape of “islands within lakes, lakes within islands.”
Historical Origins
The history of Three Pools Mirroring the Moon dates back to the Northern Song Dynasty. When Su Shi governed Hangzhou, he dredged West Lake and built three stone pagodas in the lake center to mark water depth and enhance the landscape. During the Southern Song Dynasty, it was listed as one of the Ten Scenes, and numerous pavilions and buildings were added during the Ming and Qing dynasties, forming its current layout. In 1985, it was rated as one of China’s Top Ten Scenic Spots, and in 2005, its landscape was printed on the back of the 1-yuan RMB note, cementing its status as an iconic hangzhou xi hu attraction.
Must-Experience Highlights
- Moon-Gazing on Mid-Autumn Festival: Every 15th day of the 8th lunar month is the most beautiful time to visit Three Pools Mirroring the Moon. Take a boat to the island and admire the classic scene near the “Woxin Xiangyin Pavilion” (Heart-to-Heart Pavilion), feeling the poetry of “Bright moon shines through pine trees, clear spring flows over stones.”
- Walk Around the Island: The “Nine-Zigzag Bridge” and “Nine-Arch Bridge” on the island are ideal photo spots. Walking along the causeways, you can admire the unique “islands within lakes, lakes within islands” layout, with pavilions, rockeries, and flowers along the way.
- Boat Tour to View the Pagodas: Take a boat from the West Lake shore to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (boat ticket + entrance fee ¥75/person, including round-trip boat ride). Enjoy the view of the three stone pagodas from the boat, experiencing the artistic conception of “boat sailing on water, people walking in a painting.”
Practical Information
| Practical Information | Details |
| Address | Center of West Lake, Xihu District, Hangzhou (accessible only by boat) |
| Ticket Price | Boat ticket + entrance fee ¥75/person (including round-trip boat ride) |
| Opening Hours | 8:00-17:00 (last return boat at 17:30) |
| Transportation | Board boats at Zhongshan Wharf, Yuewang Temple Wharf, or Flower Harbor Wharf—choose the nearest wharf |
| Best Time to Visit | 15th day of the 8th lunar month (Mid-Autumn moon-gazing), 8:00-10:00 AM (fewer people, calm lake) |
Conclusion: Ten Scenes, A Lifetime of Memories
The Ten West Lake Scenes are more than just scenic spots—they are living poems and paintings. From the pink peach blossoms and green willows of Dawn on Su Causeway to the refreshing lotus fragrance of Curved Yard and Lotus Pool, from the serene moonlight of Pinghu Qiuyue to the poetic snow of Broken Bridge with Remnant Snow, from the golden tower shadow of Leifeng Pagoda at Sunset to the melodious oriole songs of Orioles Singing in Willows, from the lively fish and blooming flowers of Flower Harbor View Fish to the misty peaks of Two Peaks Piercing the Clouds, from the distant bell tones of Nanping Evening Bell to the moonlit reflections of Three Pools Mirroring the Moon—each scene holds the unique charm of hangzhou xi hu.
Their beauty lies not only in natural elegance but also in cultural heritage. Every bridge, tower, willow forest, and bell tone carries thousands of years of historical stories and poetic inspiration from literati and poets. Here, you can slow down, feel the healing power of nature in lake and mountain scenery, explore cultural roots in historical relics, and experience the beauty of time through seasonal changes.
The Ten West Lake Scenes are worth cherishing for a lifetime. Whether you visit in spring for hiking, summer for lotus viewing, autumn for moon-gazing, or winter for snow appreciation, you will find your own unforgettable moments. Pack your bags and embark on a hangzhou tour—let the landscapes and poetry of West Lake become the most precious chapter in your memories. If you need a customized itinerary for the Ten Scenes or want to discover more hidden gems, feel free to reach out!
