West Lake, Freshwater lake in Hangzhou, China.

West Lake is a freshwater lake in Hangzhou, China, covering 6.39 km² and stretching 3.2 km north to south and 2.8 km east to west. It is divided by four causeways and holds three artificial islands plus Gushan, the only natural island. Gentle hills surround it on the north, west, and south, with the Leifeng and Baochu pagodas on opposite banks. A multi-tiered wooden pavilion with dark curved roofs stands over the water near a pale stone arch bridge.

The site gained prominence during the Tang Dynasty in the 7th century and developed further when Hangzhou became the capital of the Song Dynasty. Over the centuries, emperors and governors expanded the artificial causeways to regulate water and shape the landscape.

The lake takes its name from its position west of the old city center and appears on countless ink paintings as a classic subject of Chinese landscape art. Families stroll along the waterfront promenades and take photos under willow trees that drape down to the water surface.

Public buses, taxis, and rental bikes bring visitors to different points around the shoreline, which extends for several kilometers. Spring and autumn offer more comfortable temperatures and clearer views of the surrounding mountains than the hot summer months.

Every autumn, pink lotus flowers bloom across large sections of shallow water and turn the surface into a natural display of color. Early morning visitors often see groups practicing tai chi along the shore while mist still hovers over the water.