Classic Chinese pavilions are seen through the branches and stems of these red flowers in the foreground at Slender West Lake. [Photo/VCG]

Slender West Lake is a man-made lake where beautiful views and historic sights come together. It lies in the southwest of Yangzhou, one of China's historic cities.

The lake is a state-level scenic resort and gets its name because its outline is long and narrow like a slender girl.

The scenic resort is a fine example of a traditional Chinese lakeside garden. Walking along the lake, one can see many elegant styles of architecture. They all possess different kinds of beauty. Numerous poems have been written about the beautiful lake by famous poets, adding to its cultural importance.