Regularly referred to as « Heaven on Earth » by many authors and philosophers, China’s West Lake – the sea of lotus – is located in the southeast of the country, in the city of Hangzhou.
The sea of lotus is a UNESCO World Heritage site
The lake, known for its impressive scenery that has inspired painters and poets, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has several parts – such as the harbour with its red carp, the temple on Nan ping Hill or the weeping willow garden.
The lotus pool of the lake
Although each of them has impressive views, the most striking is the lotus pool. The most beautiful season on the Western Lake is from late June to October, when the lotus flowers, a symbol of perfection, are in full bloom.
The festival of the sea of lotus
Lined with traditional pavilions, small pools and typical bridges, the atmosphere is designed to offer its visitors a peaceful and charming environment. Every summer there is a festival with many activities, from listening to folk opera to placing lotus lanterns on the water to preparing lotus-themed meals.
The legends around the sea of lotus
As with many other Chinese sites, the Western Lake is the source of many legends. According to one of them, the lake is a precious stone cut by a Dragon and a Phoenix living in the Milky Way. The Queen of the Celestial Kingdom, in an attempt to steal the jewel, drops the stone from the sky during the battle.
Once on earth, the jewel turns into a majestic lake. The Dragon and the Phoenix then join the pearl on earth in the form of a hill to continue protecting it forever. Hence the name Jade Dragon Hills and Phoenix Hills.
Western Lake Guide // Site 🌺
Recipe for Lotus Flower Pastries // Video
Discover more beautiful gardens around the world, like Keukenhof gardens in Lisse, Netherlands, the miracle garden in Dubai or The Majorelle Garden in Marrakech, Marocco.