The lake is named after Mochou, a legendary woman known for her beauty, versatility, virtue and loyalty.

The lake park was owned by Zhu Yuanzhang, the first emperor of Ming dynasty, and bestowed to his general Xu Da.

[1] Another tale has it that Mochou was a beautiful and virtuous woman who lived during the Northern and Southern Dynasties (386-589).

[2] Since the early Ming Dynasty, Mochou Lake was gradually developed into a famous garden, which was bestowed to Xu Da by the Zhu Yuanzhang, the first emperor of Ming Dynasty, because he won his majesty while playing chess.

[citation needed] It lies outside Shuixi Gate of Nanjing City, with a total area of 47 hectares and a circumference of 5 km.

[citation needed] The park is a collection of pools, gardens, and pavilions, and a stunning rock display.

On the second floor the most conspicuous sight is of a picture depicting the emperor and Xu Da engrossed in a game of Weiqi that led to the emperor bestowing Shengqi ('winning the game') Pavilion along with the Mochou Lake to his general.

[1][2] A large collection of ornately carved antique rosewood Chinese furniture is exhibited in one of the courtyards.

[3] Mochou Lake Park celebrates Duanwu Festival each year with a dragon boat race.