Three Pools Mirroring the Moon — Attraction in Hangzhou City

Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (三潭印月) is one of West Lake’s most celebrated Ten Scenes, famed for its poetic beauty and unique optical illusion. The name comes from three small stone pagodas standing in the water near Lesser Yingzhou Islet, first built during the Northern Song Dynasty. Originally, these structures were practical—they marked a “no-planting” zone to protect certain waters from excessive aquatic growth. But over time, they became woven into the lake’s cultural and artistic legacy.

The magic happens on moonlit nights, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Candles are placed inside the hollow pagodas, and their light shines through small round openings on the sides. These points of light reflect off the water, creating the illusion of many moons—some from the sky, some from the candlelight, and some from the interplay of light and ripples on the lake’s surface. The effect is a dreamy scene where the “real” moon and countless “mini-moons” dance together on the water, inspiring poets, painters, and travelers...

This place is really beautiful and serene. Worth the time and taking the ferry is easier than trying to conquer the whole lake from the side.

Helpful tip for foreigners on latest situation. Getting to Three Moons, you need a ferry. There are two ferry companies. Both are almost the same prices and you can pay cash too. The routes differ though.

The good point about the ferry is that after you finish the Three Moons, you can then disembark on another side of the lake. This will help save time and costs.

Remember to bring along a one CNY note, where the image on the note is exactly as that of the lake....

Beautiful small island in the middle of West Lake, just a short and enjoyable boat ride (make sure you get a front or window seat for pictures) and you can spend some time contemplating the well maintained gardens, pools, plants, pathways and small bridges. It does get crowded during weekends and holidays, expect long lines and queuing, but if you want some peace, go early morning and during the week. Highly recommended. Must see while...