Gemstone Glowing in the Sunset, one of the ten new scenic spots of West Lake, is a captivating area located on the north shore of the lake, atop Gemstone Hill. The hill is renowned for its glittering red pebbles that sparkle in the sunlight, creating a breathtaking scene as the rosy clouds drift across the mountain.
While Gemstone Hill may not be as well-known to tourists, it is a popular destination for locals from Hangzhou who frequent the area for hiking and exercise. If you find yourself in Hangzhou and are looking for an alternative to the bustling West Lake, Gemstone Hill is an excellent choice. The hill stands at a modest 200 meters high with gentle slopes, making it an easy climb that can be completed in about an hour. There are several entrances to the hill along Beishan Road, Shuguang Road, and Baochu Road, allowing visitors to choose the most convenient starting point.
One of the entrances, the Qixia Ridge, is located next to Yue Wang Temple and features a steep ‘Four Hundred Steps’ uphill path that leads to a ridge walk along the lake. If you start from the east and head west, you can ascend from the first lane under Gemstone Hill and descend near Yue Temple. Alternatively, if you start from the south and head north, you can ascend near the Geling Bus Stop and descend near the Huanglongdong Bus Stop. The more traditional route is from east to west, with the mountain paths being straightforward and well-marked.
For those who wish to enjoy the panoramic view of West Lake from Gemstone Hill, starting from the first lane under the hill to the east will lead you to the Innocent Era Bookstore (formerly known as the Chuyangtai Teahouse). Here, you can take a moment to rest, read, and enjoy a cup of tea, all while taking in the stunning vista of West Lake.Embarking on your journey, you’ll ascend towards the iconic Gemstone Hill, where the Baochu Tower stands majestically among colossal boulders. As you traverse the slender ‘One Line Sky’, you’ll encounter the inscription ‘Gemstone Glowing in the Sunset’ etched on the rocks. From this vantage point, the mountain breeze and panoramic lake views offer an expansive perspective that is truly breathtaking. On clear days, this spot is ideal for witnessing the radiant morning light and the enchanting sunset, with the potential for capturing stunning photographs. For a different experience, climbing at night unveils the glittering night view of West Lake.
Should your penchant for hiking lead you further, you can ascend to the hill’s summit, the Chuyangtai. At the crossroads, a left turn will guide you to the top; a right turn, however, descends towards the Huanglongdong Scenic Area. Note that the dense foliage at Chuyangtai obstructs the view of West Lake, making it less than ideal for sightseeing. Nevertheless, a two-story pavilion at Chuyangtai provides a restful spot. Adjacent to the hill’s peak, the tranquil Baopu Taoist Temple offers a serene setting, complete with a small teahouse for sipping tea. Heading west from this point, the downhill path unveils sights such as Qixia Cave and Niu Gao’s Tomb, allowing for a respectful visit and exploration of the secluded areas. Eventually, you’ll arrive at Yue Wang Temple at the hill’s base, from where you can continue to enjoy the West Lake’s splendor.
The entire area is open year-round and accessible throughout the day. For an unforgettable experience, heed these must-see tips: To fully appreciate the ‘Gemstone Glowing in the Sunset’, aim to be present at the first light of dawn or during the afterglow of the setting sun. It’s a moment when the elegant Baochu Tower and the purple-brown mountain rocks are bathed in a radiant glow, a sight that should not be missed.Here is the content reformatted for better readability:
Near Baochu Pagoda, you will find numerous large boulders. Some individuals occasionally engage in bouldering without any equipment. However, it is strongly advised against attempting such activities due to safety concerns being of utmost importance.
Additionally, there are no designated camping sites on the mountain. Spending the night there is not recommended.
