Located in the west suburb of Yangzhou City, the lake was originally a natural river course leading to the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal during the Sui (581-618) and Tang (618-907) periods. It's been famous for its scenic splendor since those times.

Narrow in shape, the lake is like a tall and slender beauty in comparison with the West Lake in Hangzhou of east China's Zhejiang Province. It's beauty lies in the meandering lake and simple and unsophisticated constructions. It is 4.3 kilometers in total length with an area of over 30 hectares. Main sights on it include Spring Willows Along the Long Causeway, Xuyuan Garden, Xiaojin hill, Chuitai Terrace, Five-Pavilion Bridge and White Pagoda.

The lake is typical of the Chinese water-based garden art combining the grace and elegance of the south with the grandeur and magnificence of the north. It's known for its 24 attractions. To fully appreciate the breathtaking views one simply has to visit.