Fuzhou West Lake Park
Fuzhou West Lake Park is the best-preserved classical garden in Fuzhou. It is known as the "Pearl of Fujian Gardens" and has a history of over 1,700 years. Here is a detailed introduction to Fuzhou West Lake Park:
Basic Information
• Address: No. 71, Hubin Road, Gulou District, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province.
• Opening hours: 05:30–22:30.
• Tickets: Free.
History
Fuzhou West Lake Park was built in the third year of the Taikang period of the Jin Dynasty (282 AD) and was originally built for irrigation. During the Five Dynasties period, King Wang Shenzhi of Min expanded the city, connected the West Lake and the South Lake, and built a Crystal Palace on the lakeside, making it an imperial garden. Since then, West Lake has gradually become a tourist attraction.
Layout
Fuzhou West Lake Park adopts the typical classical garden layout of "one pool and three mountains", consisting of Kaihua Islet, Xieping Islet, and Yaojiao Islet, connected by Liudi, Feihong Bridge, Yudai Bridge, and Buyun Bridge. The main attractions in the park include Xianqiao Liuse, Dameng Songsheng, Heting Wanchang, Guizhai, Huxin Chunyu, Hutian Jingdu, Shiyun Wanzai, Jijie Stele, Kaihua Temple, Gudu Xieyang, and more.
Attractions
• Xianqiao Liuse: Named after the Xianqiao Bridge lying on the blue waves and the weeping willows on the lakeside. Many literati have praised it, such as Xin Qiji, who wrote, "Remember the romantic return, the hand-planted green shade."
• Kaihua Temple: The oldest building in the park, built in the fourth year of the Jingyou period of the Northern Song Dynasty, and the existing building was rebuilt during the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty.
• Ziwei Hall: Built in 1914, it is named after the crape myrtle planted around it and is now the park service department.
• Guizhai: Built by Lin Zexu in memory of Li Gang of the Northern Song Dynasty, there is a place where Lin Zexu studied beside the Zhai.
Leisure and Entertainment
Fuzhou West Lake Park is not only a good place for citizens to relax and entertain, but also an important attraction for tourists to learn about the history and culture of Fuzhou. There are venues for the elderly to sing and dance, trails for young people to run and exercise, and children's play facilities. In addition, the park holds special events from time to time, such as the Golden Autumn Chrysanthemum Exhibition.
Transportation
Fuzhou West Lake Park is located in the city center and is easily accessible. Visitors can take a bus or subway to nearby stations, such as "West Lake Park Station".
Fuzhou West Lake Park attracts many tourists with its profound historical and cultural heritage and beautiful natural scenery.