Looming through the morning mist are the ethereal forms of three isles that are evocative of the Penglai islands, a fabled abode of immortals. 

Sailing towards the opposite bank aboard a tiny boat never fails to engender the feeling as if one is indeed bound for some immortal climes. 

The three isles on the West Lake were actually built of mud dug up when lake was dredged 200 to 900 years ago. Something decaying and smelly was thus transformed into assets. 

Behind this landscaping phenomenon is the quintessence of traditional Chinese culture; such as the rules of the golden and man are one, and the fabled world of the immortals.