South Lake is the large body of water at the southern edge of Hongcun village, completing the water circulation system that begins at the spring above the village. The causeway that crosses it on stone bridges is the classic walking approach to the village — arriving on foot from the south, you encounter the bridges first, then the reflected skyline of Hongcun across the water, then the village gates.
The lakeside walkway is one of the most pleasant parts of the visit, with willow trees trailing over the water and the village roofscape reflected in the surface. Paddle boats are available for hire in warmer months. The school building on the lakeside — used as a filming location for Ang Lee's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon — has been preserved and is open to visitors.