Location & How to Get There
Release Pool sits in the heart of West Lake’s scenic area, near Nanshan Road at number 15. It’s a short walk from Lei Feng Tower and connected to the broader West Lake trails. To reach it, take the metro to Longxiang Bridge Station (Line 3) or Fengqingyang Road Station (Line 10), then hop on a tourist bike or walk along the lakeside paths. If you’re exploring by bus, routes 4, 315, or 504 drop you close by. The area is packed with other attractions like Three Pools Mirroring the Moon and Su Causeway, so it’s easy to combine visits.
Natural Scenery: A Serene Lakeside Spot
Nestled between lush hills and West Lake’s shimmering waters, Release Pool offers a peaceful escape. The pool itself is surrounded by willow trees and stone pathways, with turtles and koi often spotted swimming in the crystal-clear water. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the area, while autumn brings golden maple leaves reflecting in the pool. Nearby, you’ll find lotus flowers blooming in summer, adding bursts of pink and white to the landscape. It’s the perfect spot for quiet moments—sit on a bench, listen to birdsong, and watch ducks paddle by.
Cultural Stories: A History of Life-Giving Traditions
Release Pool isn’t just a pretty spot—it’s steeped in history. For over 1,000 years, people have gathered here to release animals back into nature as a act of kindness. Back in the北宋 (Northern Song Dynasty), a local official named Wang Qinruo turned West Lake into a giant “blessing pool” to celebrate the emperor’s birthday. Every year on Buddha’s birthday (April 8th), crowds would release millions of fish and birds, turning the lake into a bustling festival.
Later, in the明朝 (Ming Dynasty), officials built a smaller island in the lake—now famous as三潭印月 (Three Pools Mirroring the Moon)—exclusively for放生 (freeing life). Even today, you’ll see signs of this tradition: wooden boats loaded with fish, or families gently placing turtles into the water. Nearby temples like Jingci Temple still hold ceremonies, connecting modern visitors to this ancient ritual.
What to Do: More Than Just Watching
Participate in a Release Ceremony: Join locals on Buddha’s Birthday (or weekends) to release fish or turtles. It’s a meaningful way to engage with the site’s heritage.
Photograph the Scene: The pool’s reflections, especially during sunrise, make for stunning photos. Look for angles that include the pagoda-style roofs of nearby Lei Feng Tower.
Explore Nearby Temples: Walk 10 minutes to Jingci Temple, where monks once led massive放生events. The temple’s gardens and statues add layers of culture to your visit.
Picnic by the Water: Pack a snack and sit by the pool’s edge. Just be mindful of the “no littering” rules to keep the area pristine.
Facilities for Visitors
The area around Release Pool is tourist-friendly. You’ll find clean restrooms, drinking water stations, and shaded pavilions to rest in. Souvenir shops along Nanshan Road sell eco-friendly fish food (if you want to feed the koi!) and handcrafted lotus-themed gifts. For snacks, try dingyi dengzi (West Lake soup dumplings) at nearby vendors—they’re a local specialty. Bicycle rentals are available too, so you can pedal to other lakeside spots without hassle.
Why It’s Worth Visiting
Release Pool blends natural beauty with deep cultural meaning. Unlike crowded West Lake hotspots, it’s quieter—ideal for travelers who want to slow down. Whether you’re interested in photography, history, or simply soaking in a tranquil atmosphere, it’s a hidden gem. Bonus: if you visit early morning, you might spot locals practicing tai chi by the water, adding to the serene vibe.
Pro Tip: Pair your visit with a walk to Lei Feng Tower. The legend of the tower’s namesake (a tragic love story) adds drama to the scenery, and the view from the top overlooks Release Pool and the entire south shore. It’s the perfect mix of nature, culture, and a touch of romance!
