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A stroll around East Lake, known to locals as Donghu, is a pleasant way of introducing yourself to the history and culture of Pinghu. During national festivals, locals carve watermelons, the tasty symbol of Pinghu, into intricate carved lanterns, which if you are lucky you'll find hanging from the roofs of the wooden-framed buildings surrounding the lake. A large lotus-shaped building sits on the banks of the lake, while the Baoben Pagoda can be seen jutting out of the temple on the opposite side of the lake. East Lake is a lively attraction during holidays, and you'll see locals in their full regalia on display, but it won't be as absurdly packed as the Bund or West Lake in neighboring Hangzhou or Shanghai.