A swimming enthusiast. [Photo/WeChat account: hzsports]

Located at the intersection of Huanchengdong Road and Genshanxi Road, the Genshan Canal Park Outdoor Swimming Base, affectionately referred to as the "small pond" by Hangzhou's outdoor swimming enthusiasts, has become a popular spot for those seeking a refreshing dip.

Adjacent to the Tiesha River, the area was originally a cooling pond for the Genshanmen Power Plant. After the power plant was decommissioned, the space was transformed into a decorative fountain pond.

On Dec 28, 2019, as part of the initiative to promote open-water swimming, the Genshan Canal Park Outdoor Swimming Base opened its doors, sparking excitement among Hangzhou's outdoor swimming enthusiasts.

Various swimming associations and winter swimming clubs in Hangzhou formed autonomous management groups, with volunteers from the winter swimming community taking turns to monitor the site. Some enthusiasts even contributed personal resources to enhance the facilities at the outdoor swimming base.

The base not only provides a convenient venue for countless winter swimming enthusiasts to exercise but has also evolved into a stage for divers, singers, and live streamers among the winter swimming community. Volunteer lifeguards use it as a platform to demonstrate and promote water safety knowledge.

Surprisingly, the venue has also attracted an increasing number of foreign enthusiasts. It seems that this modest pond has truly acquired an international charm.

Swimming enthusiasts brave chill. [Photo/WeChat account: hzsports]