Yuquan

Yuquan

Guide: Located within the Hangzhou Botanical Garden, west of Yue Fei Temple. Yuquan is approximately 12 meters long and 9 meters wide. It has no visible springhead; instead, the water seeps up from the bottom of the pool. The pool is home to over a hundred fish, some several feet long and weighing dozens of pounds. There is a corridor along the edge of the pool, beneath whose eaves swallows build their nests. In spring, as fish leap in the clear spring water and swallows glide on the breeze, the scenery is serene and picturesque.

Introduction: As one of the three famous springs around West Lake, Yuquan has long been a scenic spot renowned for tea tasting and sightseeing. In 1964, Yuquan was reconstructed on its original site using the artistic techniques of classical Chinese garden design. Upon entering the newly rebuilt Yuquan, visitors are greeted by a large window frame, behind which lies a courtyard courtyard featuring a piece of lake rock and several stalks of green bamboo, forming a natural ink painting of bamboo and stone. The area consists of several courtyards, separated by winding corridors and whitewashed walls, with latticed windows in the walls that frame views from afar, making the courtyards feel interconnected yet secluded, evoking a sense of depth. Upon entering, you first arrive at Yuquan Pool, which has been newly renovated and is now named “Fishjoy Country.” There are small courtyards to the north and south, each featuring miniature landscapes of pine, bamboo, and plum. To the west lies the “Ancient Pearl Spring.” In the past, when visitors stepped on the loose flagstones around the pool, bubbles would rise from the water like pearls. After renovation, the stones have been rearranged tightly and firmly, so even if you step on them, few “pearls” can be seen. Passing through the “Ancient Pearl Spring,” and through a moon gate, you’ll find the “Clear Sky Drizzle Pool.” On sunny days, ripples appear on the surface of the water. A closer look reveals that they are caused by fine streams of bubbles rising from the bottom of the pool to the surface, creating a uniquely fascinating sight.

Transportation: Accessible via bus routes 7, 15, 27, 28, Tourist Routes 1, 2, 3, and 5.

Shaoxing City, Zhejiang Province