Last night, the skies over West Lake sparkled as Chanel's 2024/25 Haute Couture show dazzled at the iconic Quyuan Fenghe (曲院风荷). This was not just another fashion event—it was a historic occasion, as the luxury brand made its return to China after 15 years, marking a significant moment in fashion history. The show, held in the tranquil beauty of Hangzhou, was a visual masterpiece, amplified by a short film directed by renowned German filmmaker Wim Wenders.
The film beautifully merged Eastern and Western cultures, using the legendary West Lake as a backdrop, blending fantasy and reality. Starring Tilda Swinton as the mystic "Gu Yi Fa Shi," along with Chinese actresses Xin Zhilei (辛芷蕾) and Dou Jingtong (窦靖童), the film captivated audiences worldwide. It was a poetic exploration of the enchanting landscape, with several iconic West Lake locations serving as "Instagram-worthy" spots in the movie. If you've ever wondered about these locations—places where fashion meets history—let's take a closer look at the must-see spots highlighted by Chanel's magical journey.
The journey begins in the picturesque Dragon Well Village (龙井村), where the film's opening scene takes place at the "Longjing 82" creative restaurant. This area, famed for its production of Longjing tea, is nestled within the verdant hills of Hangzhou and offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural history. With more than 1,600 years of history, Dragon Well Village is a serene escape where lush tea fields stretch across the landscape, cradled by mountains that shelter the village from harsh winds.
The village itself offers a charming combination of natural beauty and cultural significance. As visitors wander through its pathways, they are enveloped in the soothing aroma of tea leaves and the picturesque sight of terraced hillsides. It's here, in this serene setting, that the journey through the storybook landscape of West Lake begins, guiding viewers through its timeless beauty.
Next on the cinematic journey is the iconic Su Causeway (苏堤), where one of the film's standout moments occurs. Named after the famous Song Dynasty poet and politician Su Shi (苏轼), this historic causeway stretches across the lake, and its beauty evolves with the changing seasons. From the golden hues of autumn to the fresh greens of spring, Su Causeway offers one of the best panoramic views of West Lake.
In the film, we see "Gu Yi Fa Shi" (Tilda Swinton) gliding through the archways of the six bridges that cross Su Causeway—each one named for the natural features it faces. The bridges are imbued with history, with names like Yingbo Bridge and Ya Di Bridge evoking the elegance of the lake's timeless charm. In this short film, the Su Causeway becomes a place where past and present converge, a perfect setting for the fashion show's celestial narrative.
One of the most captivating scenes in the film showcases Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, a famous West Lake landmark that symbolizes the harmonious relationship between water and land. The scene is a masterpiece, bringing together two elements: the towering Leifeng Pagoda and the three distinct stone towers that rise out of the water. As night falls, the pagoda is bathed in the glow of the setting sun, and the three stone towers create rippling reflections on the water, creating a perfect "moonlit" harmony.
In the film, the filmmakers use the stunning vista of Three Pools Mirroring the Moon to draw a symbolic parallel between the sun and moon, two opposing forces that work together to create balance and beauty. From the small Yingzhou Island (瀛洲岛) to the reflection of the towers on the water, the location is a place of spiritual tranquility, with its poetic and serene atmosphere inviting contemplation and awe.
Hangzhou West Lake
After crossing the scenic bridges of Su Causeway, the film takes viewers to a lesser-known but equally stunning part of West Lake—Yu Hui Bay. This tranquil bay, with its elegant surroundings, provides a secluded escape from the lake's more tourist-heavy areas. The film captures the bay's mystical atmosphere as Tilda Swinton's character explores the serenity of this hidden corner of Hangzhou.
The film also features Phoenix Mountain, where Tilda Swinton's character embarks on a reflective journey through the streets and alleys of Hangzhou. This area, with its mix of historical and contemporary significance, offers a unique look at the evolution of Hangzhou over the centuries. Phoenix Mountain is not just a geographical location but a symbolic gateway to Hangzhou's past, where ancient relics and structures mingle with modern life.
As the camera pans across the narrow streets and vibrant markets, viewers are given a taste of Hangzhou's daily life—its bustling local markets, charming tea houses, and timeless urban landscapes. Here, the city's ancient history and modern vitality exist in harmony, offering an immersive experience that echoes the dual themes of tradition and innovation.
Finally, the grand finale takes place at Quyuan Fenghe, where Chanel's haute couture collection is revealed against the stunning backdrop of Yue Lake. This location, with its blend of history and natural beauty, serves as the perfect stage for the culmination of the film's journey.
Chanel's choice of location for this show is more than a nod to Hangzhou's natural splendor—it is a tribute to the timeless allure of West Lake, which has captured the hearts of poets, artists, and now fashion visionaries. This convergence of fashion, history, and nature is what makes Hangzhou such a magnetic destination, forever intertwined with the mystique of West Lake.
From the tea-filled hills of Longjing Village to the serene beauty of Yu Hui Bay, the landscapes of Hangzhou continue to inspire and enchant. Chanel's exploration of these iconic locations through the lens of their haute couture show adds a new layer of elegance to the West Lake experience, further cementing its place as one of the world's most beloved destinations. Whether you're seeking natural beauty, cultural heritage, or artistic inspiration, Hangzhou's West Lake promises a journey that transcends time, a journey where every moment feels like a dream.
