West Lake: Hangzhou's UNESCO Masterpiece of Landscape Design
West Lake: Hangzhou's UNESCO Masterpiece of Landscape Design
Why Visit West Lake
For over 1,000 years, poets, painters and travelers have agreed: West Lake is China's most beautiful body of water. The key is its composition — pagodas, temples, gardens and causeways arranged around a 6.5-square-kilometer lake with the precision of a landscape painting. Every angle is designed. Every tree was planted with intention. The ten classical views of West Lake, named during the Southern Song Dynasty, remain the definitive way to experience it: Snow on the Broken Bridge, Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake, Evening Bell at Nanping Hill. Each view captures a different season, time of day or weather condition.
Highlights You Cannot Miss
Leifeng Pagoda
The iconic five-story pagoda overlooking West Lake. Rebuilt in 2002, it offers panoramic lake views and the legend of the White Snake.
Su Causeway
A 2.8km causeway built by Su Dongpo in 1089. Walk across six arched bridges between peach and willow trees.
Impression West Lake
Zhang Yimou's spectacular outdoor water performance on the lake. 1,000 performers, floating stages and light projections.
Practical Information
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Admission | Free (lake area) |
| Boat Ride | 55-150 RMB |
| Best Time | Sunset for golden light |
| Metro | Line 1, Longxiangqiao Station |
How to Add to Your Itinerary
Browse all attractions across 4 provinces and build your perfect China itinerary. This spot can be combined with nearby destinations for a rich travel experience.
Recommended Tours
Hangzhou, Wuzhen and the essence of Jiangnan.
Hangzhou, Wuzhen with tea culture immersion.
Plan Your Zhejiang Adventure
Let us help you discover the best of Zhejiang with private, flexible tours designed around your interests.
More Than Travel. It’s the Plus That Matters.
