Strolling along the southwestern shore of West Lake and across the Su Causeway, be sure to visit one of the most poetic and vibrant spots on the lake—Xiaoyingzhou Island, which literally translates to "Little Ocean Island." This artificial island was created from silt dredged during the lake’s cleanup, yet its spirit and beauty fully reflect the ancient Chinese philosophy of harmony between humans and nature.
Gateway to the Island and Memorable Sites
As you step onto the island from the causeway, you enter an area buzzing with cultural life. Here you’ll find:
• Ma Yifu Memorial Hall (Mǎ Yīfú Jìniànguǎn): More than just a museum, this is a sanctuary for admirers of Chinese culture. Ma Yifu (1883–1967) was one of China’s last great "universal scholars" of the 20th century—a philosopher, poet, unparalleled calligrapher, and Confucian expert. Housed in a traditional building, the hall displays his works and offers a deeper understanding of classical China’s soul.
• Canglan Pavilion: Venture a little further inland, and you’ll discover the elegant Canglan Pavilion, whose poetic name means "Pavilion of Azure Waves." With its classic upturned roof and surroundings of ancient trees, it’s a perfect spot for photography and quiet contemplation.
Peacock Park and Ancient Cedars
Continuing on, you’ll reach the shaded Peacock Park (Kǒngquè Gōngyuán). Here, magnificent peacocks roam freely along the paths, often unafraid of people and sometimes even pausing for photos. The Park is adorned with stately evergreen cedars, bamboo groves, and other trees that provide cool shade even on the hottest days—making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll and meditation.
“Within the Lake, an Island; Within the Island, a Lake”
The centerpiece of Xiaoyingzhou is not its gardens but the unique pond known as "Lake Within a Lake," encircled by an embankment. Designed after the legendary "Three Pools Mirroring the Moon"—a symbol of Hangzhou—this pond is crossed by the delicate Jiukuqiao (Nine-Bend Bridge). Walking its twists and turns, you find yourself at the heart of this aquatic labyrinth.
Across the Bridge to Flower Harbour
From Xiaoyingzhou, a path leads you to another jewel: Huagang Guanyu Park, or "Viewing Fish at Flower Harbour." The transition is striking—from the cool, shaded island to a bright, lively park brimming with blooms and energy.
As one of the famed "Ten Scenes of West Lake," Huagang Guanyu lives up to its name:
• Flower Harbour (Huāgǎng): In spring and summer, the park is awash with peonies, roses, and countless other flowers, their fragrance filling the air.
• Fish Viewing (Guānyú): The main attraction is the vast, clear Hongyuchi Pond, where thousands of oversized koi carp in brilliant reds, golds, and speckled patterns swim gracefully. Visitors can buy feed and spark a joyful frenzy—a mesmerizing spectacle!
Designed in the classic Chinese garden style, with pavilions, winding paths, and flawless vistas, this park offers a perfect conclusion to your exploration of the southern islands of West Lake. It’s a place to relax, watch locals practicing tai chi, and soak in the serenity that draws millions of visitors to West Lake year after year.
