Chaozhou West Lake

Travel Preparation
Documents: Bring necessary IDs such as your ID card.
Clothing: Choose comfortable attire according to the season. In summer, pack sun-protective items like hats and UV-blocking clothing. In winter, bring a thick coat.
Essentials: Phone, camera, charger, power bank, etc., to capture travel moments; a portable water bottle is also recommended.
Medication: Prepare common medicines like cold relief, stomachache pills, and insect repellent in case of discomfort.

Transportation Guide
High-speed rail: Take the K2 express bus from Chaoshan Station and get off at Central Hospital Station.
Self-drive: Navigate to "West Lake Park - North Gate" and park in the free spots along Huancheng West Road.

Must-Visit Spots
Hulu Mountain Cliff Carvings: Walk along the lakeside path to see numerous ancient cliff carvings on the Hulu Mountain rock face, including "Yu Xianqing's Epitaph for His Wife" and the character "Longevity." These carvings, weathered over a millennium, bear witness to Chaozhou's historical changes.
Attraction: Hulu Mountain Cliff Carvings at Chaozhou West Lake

Nine-Turn Bridge: In the early morning, with mist lingering over the lake, the bridge resembles a ribbon floating in a fairyland. Red carp swim beneath its arches, creating ripples—a poetic scene.
Attraction: Nine-Turn Bridge at Chaozhou West Lake

Virgin Spring: Located at the lake's center, the crimson pillars reflected in the emerald water make it a perfect photo spot. Wearing Hanfu here feels like stepping back in time.
Attraction: Virgin Spring at Chaozhou West Lake

Mid-Lake Pavilion: The four stone pillars are engraved with Qing Dynasty couplets. As the breeze rustles the bronze bells on the eaves, the pavilion exudes tranquility.
Attraction: Mid-Lake Pavilion at Chaozhou West Lake

Hanbi Tower: Nestled among pine trees, this small green-brick building displays old photos from Chaozhou's revolutionary era. In 1927, the "August 1 Nanchang Uprising" troops were stationed here, making it a key site to explore revolutionary history.
Attraction: Hanbi Tower at Chaozhou West Lake

Jinghan Pavilion: Built to honor Han Yu, the pavilion's stele bears Su Shi's "Inscription for the Temple of Han Yu in Chaozhou," praising Han Yu's literary legacy with the famous line: "His prose revived eight dynasties of decline; his teachings saved the world from drowning."
Attraction: Jinghan Pavilion at Chaozhou West Lake

Yiyuan Pavilion: From the top of Hulu Mountain, this pavilion offers a panoramic view of the jade-like West Lake nestled in the ancient city, with the distant Guangji Bridge faintly visible—a perfect embodiment of "mountains embracing the city, the lake cradled within."

Food Recommendations
Old Bin Oyster Omelet: Located in West Lake Food Street, their mini oyster omelets are crispy and paired with freshly mixed fish sauce and sweet chili dip for a burst of umami.
Beef Meatballs: Try the locally hand-pounded beef meatballs at West Lake Food Street—juicy and aromatic when bitten into.
Duck Mother Glutinous Balls: Enjoy these peanut-and-sesame-filled white dumplings in sugar syrup at Zaiyang Teahouse by the lake, paired with Phoenix Dancong tea for a refreshing treat.

Tips
Free admission. Visit before 9 AM or after 4 PM for softer light and fewer crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes for the lakeside trail and Hulu Mountain hike, which is ideal for light trekking.
Try boating—electric or rowing boats are available at ¥20 for 30 minutes, especially fun for families with kids.