Slender West Lake

Xichun Terrace near Slender West Lake

Yangzhou is one of China's historic cities dating back to the fifth century BC. Slender West Lake is a man-made lake where beautiful views and historic points coexist. It lies in the southwest of Yangzhou. The lake is a state-level scenic resort and gets its name because its outline is long and narrow like a slender, gentle girl.

The scenic resort is a fine example of a traditional Chinese lakeside garden. Walking along the lake, one can see many elegant styles of architectures. Some line along the shore of the lake, and others are actually built over the lake. They all possess different kinds of beauty. Numerous poems have been left by famous poets about the beautiful lake adding to its cultural importance.

There are 24 scenic attractions at the Slender West Lake, including the White Pagoda, the Five Pavilion Bridge, Xiaojin Hill, Fuzhuang, 24 Bridge, and many others.

The highest scenic spot in the lake, Xiaojin Hill offers a breathtaking panorama of the lake from the kiosk on top of the hill. Most of the architectures and rockeries on the hill are remains of the Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1911).

Fuzhuang is surrounded by water, and got its name because from above it looks like a teal floating in the water. Snacks can be purchased in Fuzhuang, and various performances are held there during festivals.

Of the 24 scenic areas, the one that catches the eyes of tourists most is 24 Bridge. Built with white marble, the bridge is 24 meters (appox.79 feet) long, 24 meters (also appox.79 feet) wide, with 24 parapets and 24 steps hence the name - 24 Bridge. It looks like a marble ribbon fluttering on the water or a rainbow lying over the lake.

The Cruise on Slender West Lake

The Bridge on Slender West Lake

Among the 24 scenic areas are artistic kiosks, pleasant pavilions, and small bridges arching over gently flowing streams. The entire area is full of poetic romance, and many poems have been inspired by the scenery. Scenic beauty and historical interests are combined at Slender West Lake, and the strong literary atmosphere makes the lake a brilliant pearl in the historic city of Yangzhou.
 

Admission Fee	Mar. - May & Sep. - Nov.: CNY100 Feb. & Jun. - Aug.: CNY60 Jan. & Dec.: CNY30 Free for children under 1.4m (4.6ft).
Ticket Selling Hours	07:00 to 17:30
Bus Route	take bus no.4, 6,17, 27, 29, 37, 62 or 103 and get off at Shouxihu Station