the west lake is a national-grade scenic resort, covering an area of 60 square kilometers. it was a gulf in ancient times and turned into a lagoon after silt blocked the mouth of the gulf. since the tang dynasty (618~907), the lake has been dredged several times, and causeways and islands have been constructed. at present, the bai causeway and su causeway separate the lake into the outer lake, inner lake, yuehu lake, xili lake and small south lake, with some natural and artificial islets in the middle. there are altogether 100 scenic spots in the area, including five spots with cultural relics under special state protection, 10 spots on the west lake and 10 spots on the new west lake, plus hills, springs, caverns, temples, gardens and historical sits.
in spring tulips, azaleas and peonies blossom. peach and willow trees are planted along the causeways of the lake.
oh, hang zhou---- the west lake is beautiful.