West Lake is a famous fresh water lake located in the historic center of Hangzhou, Zhejiang province of eastern China. The lake is divided by three causeways: Sū Di , Bai Di , and Yánggōng Di.

West Lake is not only famous for its picturesque landscape, it is also associated with many scholars, national heroes and revolutionary martyrs, thus embracing many aspects of Chinese culture. In addition, many ancient buildings, stone caves and engraved tablets in surrounding areas are among the most cherished national treasures of China, with significant artistic value.

Due to its prominent historical and cultural status among Chinese scenic resorts, West Lake was elected as a National Key Scenic Resort in 1982, one of Ten Scenic Resorts in 1985 and national 5A tourist resort in 2006. Moreover, the picture of "Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon" was printed on the backs of both the foreign exchange certificate one Yuan bill issued by the government in 1979 and the fifth version of RMB one Yuan bill issued in 2004, indicating the status of West Lake in China.

Along with its cultural importance, West Lake historically was also of value for the local commercial fishermen. According to statistics from 1977, the 560-hectare lake had the annual fish yield of 1300 kg/hectare, quite a bit more than for some larger lakes.

Traditionally, there are ten best-known scenic spots on the west lake, they are known as the "Ten Scenes of West Lake", namely

Dawn on the Su Causeway in Spring (苏堤春晓)