Pavillion Beside the Lake in the Mountain Resort 避暑山庄
The Mountain Resort 避暑山庄 at Chengde was built as a microcosm of China for the emperor’s pleasure. Contrary to its name, the Mountain Resort isn’t just about being built on a mountain, the place is divided into different areas, reflecting the variety of China’s geography. The Mountain Resort naturally has a Mountain Area, a Lake Area and a Plains Area. After exiting the palace area, one would immediately notice the lake area. There are numerous signs along the way and it is quite hard to miss even if the place is so huge.
Wooden Bridge in the Lake Area of the Mountain Resort 避暑山庄 in Chengde
The Lake Area of the Mountain Resort is a replica of the southern portion of China which is known for its lakes. There are numerous trails along the lake area and it would be difficult to find a route which you can see everything all in one go. I randomly walked along the shores of the lake and I was impressed by the serenity of that lake. The lake was so still that the blue sky reflected clearly on the lake surface. In warmer months it is possible to take a boat ride on the lake. During colder months the lake freezes over.
[xmlgm {http://www.worldwanderings.net/kml/MountainResort.kmz} zoom=19]