I am completely won over by the sunset at West Lake! The mandarin ducks by the lake have stolen the spotlight as the real drama queens, who even cares about watching the sunset anymore?
by BENNETT MCKINNEY
Oct 26, 2025
🌅 West Lake Hubin No.1 Park in Hangzhou: A romantic encounter between sunset and mandarin ducks 🌅
When you come to West Lake in Hangzhou, if you ask where is the most convenient place to enjoy the sunset, Hubin No.1 Park is definitely the top choice. Not only does it offer stunning sunset views, but it also hides a delightful "surprise" — flocks of playful mandarin ducks and ducks that often make many visitors forget to watch the sunset, completely captivated by these adorable little creatures!
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🌇 Highlights of Hubin No.1 Park
1. Unbeatable sunset views  
Hubin No.1 Park is located on the east shore of West Lake, directly facing the western horizon where water meets sky. It is an excellent spot to admire the "Leifeng Sunset Glow" and "Gemstone Clouds." Around 5-6 PM, the lake surface is bathed in a golden halo, with the silhouette of Baoshi Pagoda sketching a poetic sky in the distance.  
2. Natural theater of mandarin ducks and mallards  
Groups of mandarin ducks and mallards often gather along the lakeshore. They play and forage in the water or boldly approach people. The mandarin ducks’ colorful feathers and the ducks swimming in line are charming scenes that often prompt visitors to raise their phones and lose track of time.  
3. Iconic landmarks and free access  
The Jixian Pavilion inside the park is a classic photo spot for West Lake sunsets, with pavilions, lotus ponds, and evening glow forming a timeless picture. The park is open all day for free and is conveniently accessible, about a 10-minute walk from Longxiangqiao Station on Metro Line 1.
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📝 Travel tips
· Best time: On clear days, between 5:00-6:30 PM, the light is softest before and after sunset, perfect for photography.  
· Fun interaction: You can bring a small amount of bread crumbs to feed the mandarin ducks, but please do not disturb them.  
· Extended experience: After watching the sunset, you can walk to the Hubin Intime Shopping District to enjoy authentic Hangzhou cuisine, such as Dongpo pork and West Lake vinegar fish, to perfectly end your day.
Post by BENNETT MCKINNEY | Oct 26, 2025













