From the legends of Leifeng Tower to the poetic scenery of Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, the willows along Su Causeway gently caress a thousand years of history, while Yue Fei Temple stands as the backbone of national spirit.
This route showcases the dual essence of West Lake's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Starting from the Leifeng Tower on the southern shore of West Lake, ascend the tower for a panoramic view. The new tower stands on the site of the ancient one, housing original tower bricks with scriptures and murals depicting the Legend of the White Snake. From the top observation deck, you can gaze at the misty willows of Su Causeway and the three islands in the lake.
The West Lake picture slowly unfolds before you.
Su Causeway Spring Dawn: This 2.8-kilometer-long causeway runs north to south, with six bridges undulating like a landscape scroll. It is a cultural landmark left by the great poet and literary master, former Mayor Su Dongpo. "Six arched bridges adorn Su Causeway, with willows and peach trees interspersed," making it the foremost of the Ten Scenes of West Lake.
Take a painted boat to the island and enjoy:
Marvel at the Stone Pagodas: Take a photo with the three Northern Song Dynasty stone pagodas featured on the back of the 1-yuan banknote, and witness the magical illusion of "33 moons" on Mid-Autumn night.
A lake within a lake: Stroll through the grid-patterned garden, traverse the zigzag bridge and Kaowang Pavilion, admire lotus flowers and fish, experiencing the Song Dynasty gardening wisdom of "Island Hidden in Penglai."
The Yue Fei Temple is located at the northern end of the Su Causeway.
Stepping through the vermilion temple gate at the southern foot of Qixia Mountain, the gilded vertical plaque "Yue Fei Temple" towers majestically overhead, with intricate dragon and phoenix motifs exuding solemnity.
The Zhonglie Temple with its double-eaved hip-and-gable roof is the core structure. Inside the hall, the seated statue of Yue Fei holds his head high with one hand on his sword, his purple robe and golden armor exuding awe-inspiring dignity. Looking up at the massive plaque inscribed with his calligraphy "Return Our Rivers and Mountains," each character strikes like thunder.
The East and West Side Halls enshrine generals Zhang Xian and Niu Gao, with colorful murals depicting the legendary victories at Yancheng and the heroic battles along the Yellow River.
Visit the Yue Fei Mausoleum to admire his handwritten inscription "Restore Our Rivers and Mountains," and see the kneeling statue of Qin Hui as a warning through the ages. The hall's colorful murals depict the heroic spirit of "The River All Red," while ancient cypress trees stand solemnly in the courtyard.
As the vermilion gates open, the gaze of the purple-robed general pierces through eight centuries of mist and rain; while the iron statue kneels, the pine waves of Qixia Ridge still whisper "Let us start anew to reclaim our lost land"—here lies not just the remains of a hero, but the unyielding backbone of a nation.
