Three Pools Mirroring the Moon
Located in the heart of Hangzhou’s West Lake, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (San Tan Yin Yue) is one of China’s most iconic landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Comprising three small islets with five-meter-tall stone towers pierced with moon-shaped holes, this scenic spot is famed for its ethereal beauty, especially during autumn evenings when the moon’s reflection shimmers across the water. Built in the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279) and later renovated during the Qing Dynasty, the site blends natural harmony with poetic symbolism, representing the legendary “Three Pools Reflecting the Moon” from Chinese folklore.
Historical Overview
Constructed over 800 years ago, the islets were originally designed as a hydraulic project to regulate water levels in West Lake. Legend attributes their creation to a mythical battle between a dragon and a phoenix, while historical records emphasize their role in irrigation and flood control. During the Qing Dynasty, Emperor Qianlong added the moon-shaped towers, transforming the site into a cultural symbol of lunar harmony. The towers’ hollow centers were ingeniously designed to hold candles, creating a mesmerizing “moonlight” effect on the water’s surface at night.
Structural Layout
The three islets form a triangular arrangement in West Lake’s Outer Lake:
- Xiaoyingzhou (Little Yinzhou Island): The northernmost islet, featuring a pavilion and the tallest stone tower.
- Huixin Ting (Heart-to-Heart Pavilion): The central islet, connected by a causeway to the shore.
- Ruan Gong Dun (Lord Ruan’s Mound): The southernmost islet, named after a Tang Dynasty official who dredged West Lake.
Each islet is surrounded by lotus ponds and willow-lined shores, with the stone towers standing as sentinels of ancient craftsmanship.
Major Attractions
- Stone Moon Towers: The five-meter towers, each with five moon-shaped holes, create a magical play of light and shadow during full moons.
- Heart-to-Heart Pavilion: A classical pavilion offering panoramic views of West Lake and the islets.
- Lotus Ponds: Seasonal blooms of pink and white lotuses frame the islets, symbolizing purity.
- Ancient Causeways: Stone pathways linking the islets to the mainland, ideal for leisurely strolls.
- Mythical Sculptures: Carvings of dragons and phoenixes on the towers reflect traditional Chinese cosmology.
Suggested Itineraries
- Quick Visit (1 Hour):
- Start at Huixin Ting Pavilion → Walk to Xiaoyingzhou Island → Observe the moon towers → Return via Ruan Gong Dun.
Highlights: Photography, iconic views, and lotus ponds.
- Start at Huixin Ting Pavilion → Walk to Xiaoyingzhou Island → Observe the moon towers → Return via Ruan Gong Dun.
- Half-Day Tour (3 Hours):
- Begin at Huixin Ting → Explore Xiaoyingzhou’s pavilion and towers → Stroll to Ruan Gong Dun → Boat ride around the islets → Visit nearby Leifeng Pagoda.
Highlights: Cultural immersion, boat tours, and sunset views.
- Begin at Huixin Ting → Explore Xiaoyingzhou’s pavilion and towers → Stroll to Ruan Gong Dun → Boat ride around the islets → Visit nearby Leifeng Pagoda.
- Full-Day Exploration (6 Hours):
- Morning boat tour to all three islets → Picnic at Huixin Ting → Hike around West Lake’s Su Causeway → Evening visit for moonlit reflections.
Highlights: In-depth cultural experience, natural beauty, and nighttime magic.
- Morning boat tour to all three islets → Picnic at Huixin Ting → Hike around West Lake’s Su Causeway → Evening visit for moonlit reflections.
Transportation
- By Boat: Public and private boats depart from multiple West Lake piers (e.g., Hubin, Xihu Tiandi).
- By Foot/Bike: Walk or cycle along Su Causeway to Huixin Ting (15-minute ride from downtown Hangzhou).
- By Taxi: Direct rides to West Lake’s eastern shore (10-minute drive from city center).
Best Time & Tips
- Peak Hours: Early mornings (7–9 AM) and late afternoons (4–6 PM) avoid crowds.
- Seasonal Beauty: spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (golden foliage) offer vibrant scenery.
- Moon Viewing: Visit during the Mid-Autumn Festival for the famed “Three Pools Reflecting the Moon” spectacle.
- Essentials:
- Wear waterproof shoes for boat trips.
- Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens for panoramic shots.
- Respect ecological rules (no feeding wildlife or littering).
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