
The Slender West Lake , located in the west suburb of Yangzhou City, was
originally a natural river course leading to the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal
during the Sui (581-618) and Tang (618-907) periods. It's been famous for its
scenic splendor since those times.
Narrow in shape, the lake is like a tall and slender beauty in comparison
with the West Lake in Hangzhou of east China's Zhejiang Province. It's beauty
lies in the meandering lake and simple and unsophisticated constructions. It is
4.3 kilometers in total length with an area of over 30 hectares. Main sights on
it include Spring Willows Along the Long Causeway, Xuyuan Garden, Xiaojin hill,
Chuitai Terrace, Five-Pavilion Bridge and White Pagoda.
The lake is typical of the Chinese water-based garden art combining the grace
and elegance of the south with the grandeur and magnificence of the north. It's
known for its 24 attractions. To fully appreciate the breathtaking views one
simply has to visit.