Location & Access

Gem Hill sits on the north shore of Beili Lake, part of West Lake’s iconic scenery in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. It’s a short walk from Shuguang Road (near #43), making it easy to reach by bus, bike, or on foot if you’re exploring the West Lake area. The hill is just 78 meters tall, but its unique red rocks and panoramic views make it a must-visit spot.

Natural Wonders: Red Rocks & Sunset Magic

Gem Hill gets its name from its striking red stones, which glow like gems at sunrise or sunset. The rocks contain iron oxide, giving them a reddish-orange hue. When sunlight hits them, the hill sparkles as if covered in jewels—hence the name “Gem Hill.” This view inspired one of West Lake’s “New Ten Scenes,” called “Gem Hill’s Roving Sunlight”. For the best effect, visit during the golden hour when the rocks come alive with color.

Unique Rock Formations & Legends

The hill is packed with weirdly shaped rocks and tiny caves. At the Laifeng Pavilion (a small tower on top), you’ll find a giant egg-shaped stone called “Falling Star Rock” (or “Birthday Star Rock”). Nearby, a cliff named “Pine Watching Platform” has two ancient characters carved into it: “屯霞” (Tun Xia), meaning “gathering clouds.”

A fun spot is the Chuanzheng Cave, a natural tunnel made of stacked rocks. Inside, there’s a stone table and bench where you can rest. Look closely: the cave walls have a huge footprint print, said to be from Qian Wang (a king who tamed rivers) kicking open a mountain path—locals call it “Deng Kai Ling” (Step-Open Ridge).

Hiking & Views: Easy Trails, Big Rewards

Though Gem Hill is tiny, climbing it feels like a mini-adventure. The paths are steep but well-trodden, with steps and railings. At the summit, you’ll see Lion Peak (a rocky outcrop) and sweeping views of West Lake’s White Causeway (a road lined with trees that looks like a jade belt). On clear days, the lake mirrors the sky, and the whole scene feels like a painting.

Rest & Refreshments

Bring water and snacks, but don’t worry—there are small cafes and shops near the entrance. The trails have benches for breaks, and the Chuanzheng Cave offers shaded seating. If you’re tired, you can skip the final climb to Lion Peak and enjoy the views from halfway up.

Tips for Visitors

  • Best time to visit: Early morning (fewer crowds) or late afternoon (magical sunset).
  • What to wear: Comfortable shoes! The rocks can be slippery when wet.
  • Combine with other spots: Gem Hill is near Hupao Park and Baoshu Tower, so you can mix hiking with temple visits or boat rides on West Lake.

Visiting Gem Hill feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The red rocks, tiny caves, and lake views make it a perfect stop for photos, relaxation, or a quick escape from busy Hangzhou. Just remember: the real gem here isn’t a stone—it’s the view!