One of Nanjing's most pleasant and scenic places is the large Xuan Wu Lake Park. It is in the northwest of the city center, just next to one of the main shopping streets. The panorama of modern Nanjing and its beautiful natural surroundings surround the expanse of calm water. Most of the park is covered by a large lake dotted with a cluster of medium size islands, connected by tree lined causeways and bridges.To one side rises the green forested slopes of Zijin Mountain, while bright yellow walls and tall pagoda of a Buddhist temple crown a hill on the southern shore.  The giant Ming Dynasty city walls wraps around two sides of the lake, while a forest of modern office towers and apartments glitter in the background.  The islands themselves are a mix of groves, gardens, small pavilions, and grassy fields, with the occasional restaurant or tea house.  A stroll though the park is a relaxing break from sightseeing and a unique ensemble of the many facets of modern Jiangsu.