Location & How to Get There

Leaving The Heart Pavilion sits right in the heart of West Lake, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province—literally! It’s on the northern tip of the lake, near the Bai Causeway and Su Causeway, two iconic trails. To reach it, you’ll need to take a short ferry ride from Wusheng Pier (near Lingyin Road) or Hua Hong Wharf. The 5-minute boat ride is part of the fun, giving you time to soak in西湖’s (West Lake) mist-kissed mountains and floating lotus flowers. Pro tip: Go early to avoid crowds!

Natural Scenery: A Hidden Oasis

Leaving The Heart Pavilion isn’t just a pavilion—it’s a tiny island surrounded by West Lake’s crystal-clear waters. Think of it as a “green pearl” in the lake, covered in willows, bamboo, and flowering bushes. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the pavilion like pink clouds, while autumn turns the island into a golden painting. At dawn, the pavilion’s reflection dances on the water, and during sunset, the sky blushes with orange and pink. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot fishermen’s boats drifting past or hear temple bells from nearby Lingyin Temple.

Cultural Charm: History in Every Corner

As one of China’s “Four Great Pavilions”, Leaving The Heart Pavilion has stood here for centuries. Back in the Ming Dynasty, scholars and poets flocked to this island to escape city noise and write poems. The pavilion’s name? It’s said to symbolize leaving behind worries (like “leaving your heart” behind) to find peace. Today, you’ll still see calligraphy brushes for sale—pick one up and try copying ancient characters! Nearby, check out the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (another island) and Ruangong Island, but Leaving The Heart Pavilion feels more tranquil.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

The island is small but packed with charm. Wander upstone steps to the pavilion’s top floor for 360° views of West Lake. There’s a tiny teahouse where you can sip Longjing tea while watching ducks swim. Bring cash—some stalls sell snacks or souvenirs, but options are limited. Wear comfy shoes: the island’s easy to explore, but the lake’s edges get slippery when wet.

Why Visit? A Serene Escape

Leaving The Heart Pavilion isn’t about ticking off a sightseeing box—it’s about slowing down. Sit by the water, listen to dragonflies buzzing, or watch locals feed fish. At night, lanterns light up the pavilion, making it feel like a fairytale. Unlike busier spots like Broken Bridge or Leifeng Pagoda, here you’ll find quiet corners to read a book or chat with a friend. Just don’t forget your camera—the pavilion’s classic roof and lake backdrop are Instagram gold!

P.S. Combine your visit with a walk along Su Causeway afterward. The contrast between the island’s calm and the causeway’s lively vibes makes for a perfect day in West Lake.