Solitary Island (Gu Shan) sits in the northwest corner of West Lake (Xi Hu), linked to the mainland by the Bai Causeway. The largest island on the lake and a lovely place to wander and explore, the island affords visitors fine lake views and a number of significant attractions. For anyone interested in Chinese history, symbolism or legend, the island is crowded with fascinating monuments and sites. For those simply after a pleasant day outdoors amidst beautiful scenery, Solitary Island fits the bill nicely.

On the north side of the island are Wenlan Pavilion, Zhongshan Park and the Zhejiang Provincial Museum, housed in part of an old imperial palace. On the west side the Xiling Seal Society sits atop a scenic hill. The Tomb of Qiu Jin, a female revolutionary, is at the foot of the hill. Qiu Jin was an early pro-democracy campaigner and part of Sun Yatsen's team of nationalist fighters in the 1900s. Another tomb of interest is that of noted tiger killer and hero of the classic novel Water Margin, Wu Song. A third tomb belongs to Su Xiao Xiao, a famous 5th century courtesan and poet who died tragically at 19. Her tomb was destroyed by overzealous Red Guards during the Cultural Revolution, but was restored in 2004.