Hangzhou's defining landmark. The lake is crossed by two ancient causeways — the Baidi and the Sudi — where willows trail into the water and locals stroll at any hour. Take a boat out to the island of Santan Yinyue (Three Pools Reflecting the Moon), especially atmospheric on autumn evenings. Larger boats depart from Hubin Lu; smaller rowing boats are available for hire all along the shore.
The lake rewards a slow approach. The Baidi Causeway runs from the northern shore to Lone Hill island, passing through cherry blossoms in spring. The Sudi Causeway crosses the full width of the lake, lined with peach and willow trees that were planted by the governor Su Dongpo in the 11th century. Both are best walked early in the morning before the crowds arrive. The Zhejiang Provincial Museum sits on Lone Hill; Yue Fei Temple is on the northern shore.