Located in the west suburb of Yangzhou City, Jiangsu Provience, the Slender West 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 has been famous for its scenic splendor since those times.

The scenic resort is a fine example of a traditional Chinese lakeside garden. Walking along the lake, you can see many elegant styles of architectures. Some line along the shore of the lake, and others are actually built over the lake. They all possess different kinds of beauty. Numerous poems have been left by famous poets about the beautiful lake adding to its cultural importance.

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. Its 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 highest scenic spot in the lake, Xiaojin Hill offers a breath taking panorama of the lake from the kiosk on top of the hill. Most of the architectures and rockeries on the hill are remains of the Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1911).

Fuzhuang is surrounded by water, and got its name because from above it looks like a teal floating in the water. Snacks can be purchased in Fuzhuang, and various performances are held there during festivals.

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.