Solitary Hill

Standing all alone in the northern part of the West Lake, it’s no wonder that it’s named Solitary Hill (Gu Shan in Chinese). This volcano island is the smallest hill around the lake but the biggest islet in the lake. This island has always been a favourite spot to Emperors, and at least tree of them constructed palaces here.

Zhong Shan (Sun Yat-sen) Park in the middle of Solitary Hill was opened in 1927 and is one of the "wonders" of the West Lake area. This park is built on the grounds of an imperial garden from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). The island, needless to say, has an outstanding scenic beauty and viewing spots over the lake as well.

Another interesting thing is that Solitary Hill is the home of the Xiling Seal Engravers Society that was founded in 1908. This famous society exhibits more than 250 pieces both modern and ancient.