Pronunciation: [kʃˈuːɐnwˌuː lˈe͡ɪk] (IPA) 
Xuanwu Lake is a famous tourist attraction in Nanjing, China. Its name is spelled in pinyin as "Xuánwǔ Hú" and pronounced as /ɕɥɛ̌n wǔ xǔ/. The "x" sound represents a voiceless alveolo-palatal fricative (/ɕ/), which is similar to "sh" in English but pronounced closer towards the front of the mouth. The "u" is pronounced like the "oo" in "boot." Hence, the correct pronunciation of Xuanwu Lake would be "shwen-woo shoo."
Xuanwu Lake is a renowned freshwater lake located in Nanjing, the capital city of Jiangsu Province in China. It is often celebrated for its historical and cultural significance and is considered as one of the largest city lakes in the country. The name "Xuanwu" is derived from the combination of two Chinese characters: "Xuan" meaning black and mysterious, and "Wu" referring to a mythological creature resembling both a snake and a turtle.
The lake covers an area of approximately 440 hectares, encompassing both water and surrounding parkland. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, mainly due to its picturesque landscapes, tranquil ambience, and various recreational activities it offers. The lake's natural beauty is enhanced by the presence of numerous willow trees and lotus flowers, which provide a serene and scenic atmosphere.
Xuanwu Lake is also steeped in history as it houses several iconic landmarks within its vicinity. These include Zifeng Tower, a skyscraper defining the city's modern skyline, and Jiming Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a leisurely boat ride across the lake or explore the scenic jogging paths and cycling trails around it.
Overall, Xuanwu Lake stands as a significant cultural and natural landmark, combining history, beauty, and recreational activities to offer visitors a captivating experience on their journey through Nanjing, China.
The word "Xuanwu Lake" has its origins in Chinese. Specifically, "Xuanwu" (玄武) is a combination of two Chinese characters: "xuan" (玄) meaning "dark" or "profound", and "wu" (武) meaning "warrior" or "military". Therefore, "Xuanwu" can be translated as "Mysterious Warrior" or "Dark Warrior".
"Xuanwu Lake" refers to a famous lake in Nanjing, China. The lake is known for its historical and cultural significance and its serene beauty. The name "Xuanwu Lake" was derived from nearby Xuanwu Mountain, which was named after the Xuanwu deity in Chinese mythology, often associated with the north and the color black. The lake got its name due to its close proximity and association with the Xuanwu Mountain.
