Weiming Lake is the largest artificial lake within the campus of Peking University, located in the central-northern part of the campus. To the south of the lake stands the overturned stone fish sculpture, and in the center, there is a lake island accessible via a bridge connected to the north shore. At the southern end of the island, there is a stone boat. On the south bank of the lake, one can find the Bell Pavilion, Linhu Pavilion, Flower God Temple, and Edgar Snow’s tomb.
The east bank is adorned with the Boya Pagoda. It is one of the iconic landscapes of Peking University. Previously, the lake was supplied by the waters of the Wanquan River. The area around Weiming Lake was once part of Shuchun Garden during the Qing Dynasty, which Emperor Qianlong bestowed upon his favored minister, Heshen. Extensive construction was undertaken here, resulting in the creation of 64 pavilions, 357 corridors and pavilions, and thousands of rooms. After Heshen was investigated and his property confiscated, Shuchun Garden changed hands several times. During the Qing Dynasty, it was an artificial lake in the Heshen Garden, an annex of the Old Summer Palace. The stone boat was modeled after the one in the Summer Palace, but the upper structure was later burned down, leaving only the stone base. The significance of Weiming Lake to Peking University is akin to the significance of the Han and Tang dynasties to China, not only for its inherent beauty but also as a symbol of cultural significance. Weiming Lake is embraced by Weiming North Road and Weiming South Road. Strolling along the north road and by the lake, one can experience the beautiful charm of Weiming Lake. Currently, the lake is only open to faculty, students, relatives, friends, and alumni, and is not open to the general public.Peking University – Weiming Lake
Weiming Lake is the largest artificial lake within the campus of Peking University, located in the central-northern part of the […]
