A number of specific features are particularly notable. In the south of the Outer Lake is a manmade island known as the "Island of Little Oceans," which contains four small lakes. From here, one can see the "Three Pools Mirroring the Moon" when candles are lit at night in stone lanterns jutting out of the water to create the impression of the reflections of three moons. The scene is truly magical on the night of the Autumn Moon Festival.

"Solitary Hill Island," which lies between the Outer Lake and the north Inner Lake, is an ideal spot for admiring the vista. The "Two Peaks Embracing the Sky" nearby create another impressive view, especially when crossing the lake by boat.

Not far from the lake is Lingyin Temple, located in a woodland setting near Fei Lai Feng ("Peak Flown From Afar"). Legend has it that this limestone peak "flew" all the way from India where it had formed part of a holy mountain. These elements are of particular interest to Buddhists and art enthusiasts.

The Mausoleum of General Yue Fei is a monument to the patriot who was murdered in 1141 under his archrival Qin Hui, a Song Dynasty (960-1279) prime minister. These buildings, like others in the vicinity of the lake, such as the slender Six Harmonies Pagoda , add to the calm and beauty of their surroundings.

No visitor to West Lake and Hangzhou can avoid learning something about some of the city's most famous products, namely silk and Longjing (Dragon Well) tea. Since the Tang Dynasty (618-907) silk products from Hangzhou have found their way all over the world. The National Silk Museum was the first Chinese national museum to be dedicated to silk culture, and is the largest of its kind in the world. A similar museum is dedicated as an homage to tea. Located in the West Lake Dragon Well Tea Plantation, the National Tea Museum provides fascinating insights into the history and production of Chinese tea. Often referred to as the "wonders of West Lake," Longjing tea and Hupao (Running Tiger) Fountain are must-see spots on any visitor's itinerary.

Another natural spectacle is the tidal bore of Qiantang River, which has enthralled visitors for centuries. Overlooking the river estuary stands the 13-storey-high Six Harmonies Pagoda. Dating from 970 and built on the site of a former pagoda that served as a lighthouse, the name refers to the six codes of Buddhism , i.e. harmony of the body, speech and thought, and the renunciation of personal pleasures, opinions and wealth. From the top of the pagoda one can catch an impressive view of the river and beyond.

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