As if by luck, we found another gem near Hangzhou: Xianghu Lake. At the school’s Christmas fair, an enthusiastic group of young people offered the chance to go sailing, and we jaccepted.

Lake Xianghu is located about 20 km from downtown Hangzhou and is easily accessible by car and subway. The lake is called the “sister” of West Lake; based on archaeological findings, it is believed to have formed about 8,000 years ago. Xianghu is shaped like a pumpkin, though some sensitive observers believe they can see the figure of a young girl in it, while West Lake is said to resemble a noblewoman.

The view is breathtaking, especially now, in the colors of winter (which would be more like autumn in Hungary). Compared to West Lake, there aren’t large crowds. The lake and its surroundings offer numerous opportunities for meaningful activities. Restaurants, tea houses, rest areas, and camping sites, as well as Ocean Park, exhibition halls, and water sports, await visitors and those seeking fresh air. The infrastructure also makes it easy to go running, hiking, or biking around the lake. The area is constantly being developed. The disadvantage is that the view is occasionally spoiled by a crane or tconstruction sites.

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December, 2017