Wushan Scenic Area

Wushan Scenic Area

Wushan Scenic Area, stretching from Wansong Ridge in the west to the Drum Tower in the east, features undulating mountain ridges that extend for miles and reach straight into the urban area. When West Lake was still a bay connected to the Qiantang River, Wushan was a cape embracing this bay. Through the vicissitudes of time, Wushan has become a renowned scenic mountain, flanked by river and lake on either side, making it the best place to climb for a sweeping view of West Lake.

Covering an area of about 1,000 acres, Wushan is famed for its beautiful scenery. However, throughout history, the mountain has been dotted with taverns, temples, and numerous stalls, becoming a hub of Hangzhou’s folk culture. Along with Gushan, it represents one side of refined culture and the other of popular culture, reflecting the inclusive diversity of Hangzhou’s cultural fabric.

Qin

This area is the most beloved mountain for local residents to visit, perhaps because of its “closeness” and “common touch,” which make it easily approachable. As you hike and look around, your eyes are met with lush, ancient city trees—the camphor trees—with their verdant leaves full of vitality. The historic Chenghuang Pavilion stands magnificently here. If you gaze out at night from atop the mountain, the city lights twinkle, competing with the bright moon and stars above—just as the Ming Dynasty poet Xu Wei wrote: “Eight hundred li of lakes and mountains form what kind of grand picture; a myriad of city lights all gather at this tower.”