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At Huizhou West Lake, visitors can enjoy boating on the serene lake, take a leisurely walk along the scenic pathways, and visit historic sites like the Xianglu Mountain and the pagodas. The area is perfect for photography, especially around sunrise and sunset, and it's also a great spot for bird watching.
The Huizhou West Lake Scenic Area, located in the central district of Huicheng, Huizhou City, in southeastern Guangdong Province, comprises the West Lake Scenic Area and the Honghua Lake Scenic Area. Historically, Huizhou West Lake, along with Hangzhou West Lake and Yingzhou West Lake, were collectively known as China's three major West Lakes. The Song Dynasty poet Yang Wanli coined the line, "Three West Lakes, all alike in autumn: Qiantang, Yingshui, and Luofu," referring to these three.
Its mountains and rivers are beautiful and deep, the scenery is winding and secluded, the floating islands are everywhere, the green mountains are like dark green, and the ancient pavilions and towers are hidden among the lush trees. The scenery is wonderful because of nature, and it is known as "Zhuluo Xizi". There is a historical record that "there are 36 West Lakes in China, and only Huizhou can compare with Hangzhou."
The scenic spots include "Five Lakes, Six Bridges and Eighteen Scenes". The Five Lakes and Six Bridges have not changed, and the Eighteen Scenes are "Flying Geese Viewing the Scenic Spots, Mighty Aura of Fengshan, Water Curtain Waterfall, Autumn Moon over Calm Lake, Ripples of Jade Pagoda, Drunken Red Cotton in Spring, Summer Vacation in Xixin, Talking about Rain in Huazhou, Watching Fish in Flower Harbor, Splendid Autumn, Playing with Moon on Su Causeway, Twin Red Cottons, Su's Traces on Solitary Hill, Green Catkins in Nanyuan, Smoke and Clouds over Willows, Red and Green Dots over Xiangling, Flying Clouds on Xiangling, and Auspicious Dance of Cranes and Herons".
Huizhou's West Lake is a perfect place to visit all year round. Its picturesque landscapes are steeped in history, and the natural fragrance of the ramie and the cypress blossoms is undeniable. Spring breezes sweep, summer fragrance lingers, autumn colors shimmer, and winter's verdant forests embellish the islands.
The scenic spots are divided into Fenghu Scenic Area, Pinghu Scenic Area, Linghu Scenic Area, Ehu Scenic Area, Nanhu Scenic Area, Gaobang Mountain, Honghua Lake Scenic Area, and Jinshan Lake Scenic Area has been added in recent years.
Recommended play time: about half a day
free
Summer: 7:00-22:30
Winter: 6:30-22:00
Exhibition halls within the park: 8:00-18:00
Huizhou West Lake is a famous scenic area in Huizhou, Guangdong. Known for its cultural significance, it was inspired by the West Lake in Hangzhou. The area features traditional architecture, tranquil waters, and lush gardens, making it an important landmark for both tourism and local culture.
Huizhou West Lake is located in the city of Huizhou, in Guangdong Province. It can be easily reached by taxi, bus, or on foot from the city center. The nearest bus stops are close to the entrance, and taxis are readily available throughout the city.
The park is open year-round, with the best time to visit being early morning or late afternoon when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer. Spring and autumn offer the best weather for sightseeing, while summer can be hot and crowded.
The entrance to Huizhou West Lake is generally free. However, some specific attractions within the park, such as boat rides or visits to temples, may require a small fee. Tickets can be bought at the entrance or from local vendors nearby.
Advance booking is not necessary for general entry. However, for special events or during peak seasons, it's recommended to check availability and book boat tickets in advance.
It takes about 2 to 3 hours to explore the main sights of Huizhou West Lake. If you plan to visit the surrounding temples or take a boat ride, you may need 4 to 5 hours to fully enjoy the area.
Key highlights include the Xianglu Mountain, the historical pagodas, and the picturesque bridges over the lake. The peaceful gardens and lakeside walking paths are perfect for a relaxing stroll, while the temples and pavilions offer glimpses into the region’s culture and history.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer services in English during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides may also be available in multiple languages, depending on the tour operator.
The best photography spots are around the lake’s edge, where the reflections of the surrounding hills and trees create beautiful images. The pagodas and bridges offer excellent views, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Start by visiting the scenic spots along the lake, then head towards the pagodas and temples. After exploring the main areas, enjoy a boat ride around the lake. Finish with a visit to the nearby gardens or cafes for a relaxing break.
Night visits to Huizhou West Lake are possible, as the area is beautifully lit after dark. While there aren’t specific light shows, the evening ambiance along the lake is perfect for an evening stroll or a quiet boat ride under the stars.
Weekends and public holidays can be crowded, so it's best to visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. The park is less crowded in the off-peak seasons like autumn and early spring.
Facilities include public toilets, rest areas, and a variety of local shops around the lake selling souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. There are also some cafes and restaurants offering local specialties where visitors can relax.
Huizhou West Lake is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, although some areas may have uneven paths or stairs. It's advisable to plan the visit accordingly if mobility is a concern. There are plenty of child-friendly areas and spaces to relax.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted throughout the park. Some smaller vendors may only accept cash, so it's good to carry a small amount of cash for such cases.
There are several cafes and restaurants near the lake offering local dishes such as Huizhou-style dumplings, noodles, and snacks. Some spots near the entrance also serve coffee and tea for a quick break.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local restaurants, particularly those that serve traditional Chinese cuisine. Halal food options may be found at restaurants catering to Muslim visitors, but they are less common in this area.
There are several hotels within walking distance of Huizhou West Lake, including both budget and mid-range options. Popular choices include the Hyatt Regency Huizhou and the Huizhou Kande International Hotel, which offer comfortable stays with easy access to the lake.
Nearby attractions include the Huizhou Museum, Huizhou Ancient City, and the Guangdong Museum of Art. These can all be easily combined with a visit to Huizhou West Lake for a comprehensive cultural day trip.
Souvenir shops around the lake offer traditional Chinese crafts, tea, and local snacks. Popular souvenirs include Huizhou-style silk products, calligraphy items, and handcrafted ornaments.
After visiting Huizhou West Lake, taxis and buses are readily available to take visitors to other parts of Huizhou or nearby cities. If you're continuing your journey by train, Huizhou Railway Station is a short distance away by taxi.
