West Lake, Hangzhou city, Zhejiang province  [Photo/China.org.cn]

West Lake, Hangzhou city, Zhejiang province

Located west of Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, the West Lake is a fresh water lake renowned for its natural surroundings and history. Its beauty earned itself the nickname"paradise on earth". Surrounded by mountains on three sides, the lake covers an area of 6.5 square kilometers (650 hectares). On average, the lake is 3 meters deep. It has numerous temples, pagodas, gardens, and artificial islands located within. The lake's 11 sections flaunt over 100 scenic spots!