Pinghu East Lake: Where City Meets Poetry, a Timeless Embrace

Departing from Shanghai Hongqiao Station, arrive at Jiaxing South Station, and then transfer to Pinghu. Stroll along the shores of East Lake, where the gentle whispers of the Wu dialect fill the air, and the scenery unfolds like a captivating ink painting of Jiangnan. Nestled in the heart of Pinghu, Jiaxing, this 4A-level scenic spot boasts a stunning layout of four islands and eight scenic wonders, blending a thousand years of cultural heritage with shimmering lake waters, creating an intoxicating essence of Jiangnan spring. A Morning Mist of Ink and Wash Painting As the first rays of dawn pierce through the mist, the golden eaves of the Nine Peaks Pavilion become the focal point. Ascend the three-story pavilion and gaze out at the panoramic view of East Lake, resembling a slowly unfolding Song and Yuan dynasty scroll: the nine-arched bridge gracefully spans the water like a rainbow, white egrets take flight from Bird Island in the heart of the lake, and the eaves of the Li Shutong Memorial Hall reflect a sense of Zen in the shimmering water. It's recommended to arrive around 7am to witness the morning glow paint the Baoben Pagoda in amber hues. At this moment, East Lake becomes a poem exclusively for early risers. A Symphony of Humanity and Nature Stroll along the lakeside greenway, each step echoing with history. Amidst the white walls and black tiles of Nancun Shudui, one can almost still hear the rhythmic verses of Ming and Qing dynasty scholars reciting the "Ten Scenes of East Lake." In the Beiyuan Muchang scenic area, modern sculptures and ancient pastoral imagery collide, creating a fascinating spark. When bringing children to explore this "Little West Lake" of the south, don't forget to experience the joy of a hand-rowed boat in the children's play area and watch the smiling faces of children chasing colorful koi with nets. A Visual Feast Through the Seasons In March, the cherry blossom tunnel transforms into a shower of petals. In May, new lotus leaves on the lake surface hold glistening dewdrops. In October, the ginkgo avenue is paved with a golden carpet. In December, the remnants of snow outline the elegant silhouette of pavilions and towers. The most breathtaking scene is on a summer night when the lights first come on. The musical fountain dances to the melody of "Pinghu Autumn Moon," and the light and water show projects silhouettes of Li Shutong's "Outside the Long Pavilion, Beside the Ancient Road." At this moment, East Lake becomes a theatrical stage transcending time and space. TIPS: 1. The park is free to enter. Entry to the Li Shutong Memorial Hall requires an ID card. 2. Recommended route: Nine Peaks Pavilion > Baoben Temple > Longqiu Guixiang > Hanzhu Ninghui > Nancun Shudui 3. The lakeside restaurant "Donghu Baxian" offers authentic Pinghu preserved eggs and crab shell yellow biscuits. 4. A 10-minute drive from the Pinghu exit of the Hangpu Expressway. Take the high-speed train to Jiashan South Station and transfer to bus K165. Where city and nature embrace in perfect harmony, East Lake is more than just a city park. It is the source of inspiration for Lu Ji's "Wen Fu," a mirror reflecting the secular world for Master Hongyi, and a Shangri-La for modern people seeking a poetic dwelling. Perhaps, as the 500-year-old ginkgo tree on the island in the heart of the lake suggests, Jiangnan is simply a Song dynasty poem gifted to the world by East Lake.