The West Lake derives its name from the fact that it lies west of the city of Hangzhou. Over hundreds of years, it changed from a bay to a lagoon, and then before the Tang Dynasty(618-907), to a completely inland lake. During the ensuing Song(960, Yuan(1206-1368), Ming(1368-1644)and Qing(1644-1911)dynasties, the lake underwent repeated building and repairs. By the end of the 20th century, it had grown to an area of five to six square kilometers.

In the 21st century, work began on the rebuilding of the Duke Yang Causeway increasing the lake surface area t0 6.5 square kilometers and its depth from l.65 meters to 2.27 meters.

The first place visitors to Hangzhou should head for is Gu Shan(Solitary Hill), spending a day or two on this, the key to the scenic West Lake, and only then fanning out to the lake scenic sites.

Here one gets a sense of the lake's expanse and the depth of local history and culture. Gazing down from this vantage point to the lake below cast your eyes on the lake's three causeways and three islets and you 11 appreciate why this place was described as a heavenly city. You would be well advised to take in the Zhejiang Provincial Museum and Art Gallery for a panoramic view of Zhejiang's civilization£®And after that,sample the delights of the West Lake cui sine at the Louwailou Restaurant. From there, a walk along Lingyin Road, the Bai Juyi Causeway or the North Hill Road will reward the visitor with scenic surprises.

[Close] [comment]