Kunming Lake in the Summer Palace was known as the "West Lake" during the Yuan and Ming dynasties. When lotus blossoms were in bloom during the summer, it was considered one of the "Top Ten Scenic Spots of Yanjing West Lake". At the end of June, lotus flowers in various areas of the Summer Palace, such as the Zhitu Scenic Area, Yanshangzhai Scenic Area, the western section of the West Causeway (Xidi), and the Xiequ Garden Scenic Area, will gradually bloom. Strolling along the embankment, one can appreciate the graceful and lovely lotus flowers, which add to the beauty of the scenery.

The majority of the lotus flowers in the Summer Palace are located in the Zhitu Scenic Area on the west side of the palace. From June to August each year, the water near the western section of the West Causeway (Xidi) is covered with a large number of lotus leaves, flowers, and reeds, almost entirely concealing the surface of the lake. The largest area of lotus flowers in the Summer Palace, close to 100 acres, covers the entire lake and echoes against the distant Xishan and Yuquan Mountain. The scene of all the lotus flowers in full bloom is truly breathtaking. In addition, the lotus flowers in the Xiequ Garden, Zhitu Scenic Area, Yanshangzhai Scenic Area, and other areas have a classical garden style that evokes a sense of nostalgia for summer.

When looking westward from the West Causeway (Xidi), visitors can see lotus leaves of different sizes covering the entire surface of the lake. The lotus flowers are tender and delicate, seemingly whispering to visitors and immersing them in the beautiful natural environment of the Summer Palace. Boating among the lotus flowers provides a unique experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery of the mountains and lotus flowers, listen to the sounds of frogs and birds, and feel as if everything has formed naturally.

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Translator: TANG Yingqi