West Lake: So, What's the Actual Deal?
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As a Hangzhou local, I've traveled to many places both domestically and internationally, but my home is still my favorite. I'll always have a deep affection for this land, its creatures, and its food (though insects and spiders are an exception!).
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To be honest, as a southerner who grew up surrounded by plenty of mountains and rivers, West Lake doesn't particularly impress me.
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What makes West Lake stand out is its location right in the heart of the city; that's truly unique.
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Hangzhou doesn't really have much to offer besides West Lake.
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Xiang Lake is beautiful too, it's just not as famous.
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Perhaps it has a certain unique charm?
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The water looks quite 'rich' (not crystal clear). The first time I visited Hangzhou, West Lake just seemed like an ordinary lake to me. The second time, I started to like it. On my third trip last week, I specifically wanted to visit West Lake again before heading back. Afterwards, I felt so comfortable and relaxed—I'm not sure what its magic is.
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I just visited today, and it's truly beautiful no matter how you look at it. It's actually made me think about settling down in Hangzhou.
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I went today too, and the same thought crossed my mind!
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Try visiting the western part of the lake on a rainy day, and steer clear of the crowded tourist spots.
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It's just breathtakingly beautiful!