[2025 Hangzhou Hotels] Travel Guide for West Lake State Guesthouse (Updated Jul)

West Lake in Hangzhou is one of the most famous tourist attractions in China, attracting countless tourists with its picturesque scenery and rich cultural heritage. Here's a detailed West Lake travel guide to help you make the most of your trip: --- ### **1. Basic Information** - **Address**: No. 1 Longjing Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province - **Opening Hours**: Open all day (some attractions charge fees and have time restrictions) - **Tickets**: West Lake is free, some surrounding attractions charge fees (such as Lingyin Temple, Leifeng Pagoda, etc.). - **Suggested Visiting Time**: 1-2 days --- ### **2. Must-See Attractions** **2.1 West Lake's Ten Scenic Spots (Classic Route)** - **Broken Bridge**: Legendary spot of the White Snake, stunning snow scene in winter. - **Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake**: A great place to enjoy the moon, charming night view. - **Spring Dawn at Su Causeway**: Willow trees line the causeway in spring, suitable for cycling or strolling. - **Three Pools Mirroring the Moon**: Iconic West Lake landmark, requires a boat trip to the island (boat ticket approx. 55 yuan). - **Leifeng Pagoda in the Sunset Glow**: Leifeng Pagoda overlooks the entire West Lake, entrance fee 40 yuan. - **Flower Harbor Viewing Fish**: Enjoy fish and flowers, connects Su Causeway and Yanggong Causeway. - **Orioles Singing in the Willows**: Willow trees shade the area in spring, free entry. - **Twin Peaks Piercing the Clouds** (distant view): North and South Peaks can be seen on a clear day. - **Evening Bell at Nanping Hill**: Bell of Jingci Temple, entrance fee 10 yuan. - **Lotus in the Breeze at Crooked Courtyard**: Lotus flowers bloom in summer, free entry. **2.2 Other Recommended Attractions** - **Lingyin Temple**: Millennium-old temple, entrance fee 45 yuan + incense ticket 30 yuan. - **Longjing Village**: Taste Longjing tea and experience tea culture. - **Xixi Wetland** (about 5 km from West Lake): Ecological wetland, entrance fee 80 yuan. - **Hefang Street**: Ancient-style commercial street, free, suitable for snacks and souvenirs. --- ### **3. Transportation Guide** - **Airplane**: Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, take subway line 1 or airport bus to the city center. - **High-speed Rail/Train**: Hangzhou East Railway Station or Hangzhou Railway Station, subway line 1 directly to West Lake. - **City Transportation**: - **Subway**: Lines 1 and 2 reach the West Lake area. - **Bus**: Routes 4, 7, West Lake Loop Line, etc. - **Shared Bikes**: Convenient for cycling around the lake (recommended for Su Causeway and Bai Causeway). - **Boat**: Boats available at Hubin Pier and Huagang Pier. --- ### **4. Suggested Tour Routes** **One-Day Highlights Route** 1. **Morning**: Hubin Road → Broken Bridge → Bai Causeway → Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake → Solitary Hill → Xiling Seal Society. 2. **Lunch**: Lou Wai Lou (Hangzhou cuisine) or nearby snacks. 3. **Afternoon**: Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (boat trip) → Flower Harbor Viewing Fish → Leifeng Pagoda → Orioles Singing in the Willows. 4. **Evening**: Dinner at Hefang Street, West Lake Musical Fountain show (19:00, 20:00). **Two-Day In-depth Route** - **Day 1**: West Lake's Ten Scenic Spots classic route + Lingyin Temple. - **Day 2**: Tea tasting at Longjing Village → Xixi Wetland → Songcheng Park (optional "Romance of Song Dynasty" show). --- ### **5. Food Recommendations** - **Hangzhou Cuisine**: Dongpo Pork, West Lake Vinegar Fish, Longjing Shrimp, Beggar's Chicken. - **Recommended Restaurants**: - Lou Wai Lou (Gushan Road branch, time-honored brand) - Zhiweiguan (Hubin branch, famous for snacks) - Grandma's Home (cost-effective) - **Snacks**: Cong Bao Hui, Dingsheng Cake, Cat's Ear, Pian Er Chuan. --- ### **6. Accommodation Suggestions** - **Hubin Business District**: Convenient transportation, rich nightlife (e.g., Grand Hyatt Hangzhou). - **Within West Lake Scenic Area**: Quiet environment (e.g., West Lake State Guesthouse). - **Hostels/B&Bs**: Artistic B&Bs clustered around Siyanjing and Manjuelong. --- ### **7. Important Notes** 1. **Weather**: Spring, summer, and autumn are suitable, prevent heatstroke in summer, keep warm in winter. 2. **Avoid Scams**: Be cautious of "free tea" or expensive tea, refuse "unofficial guides." 3. **Reservations**: Book Leifeng Pagoda, Lingyin Temple, and other attractions in advance during holidays. 4. **Environmental Protection**: West Lake is a World Cultural Heritage site, do not litter. --- ### **8. Seasonal Features** - **Spring** (March-May): Peach blossoms and willows, best flower viewing season. - **Summer** (June-August): Lotus flowers in bloom, pay attention to sun protection. - **Autumn** (September-November): Sweet osmanthus fragrance, cool weather. - **Winter** (December-February): Broken Bridge snow scene, fewer crowds, serene scenery. --- Hope this guide helps you enjoy your trip to West Lake! If you have other needs, such as niche routes or family-friendly activities, feel free to ask! 🌸

1. Misty West Lake: A Lake of Natural Beauty, A City of Poetry Before the morning mist disperses, West Lake dons its cicada-wing veil. Ascending the Broken Bridge, your feet touch the dew-kissed bluestone slabs, as if walking through the lingering melodies of "The Legend of White Snake." By the Crane-Releasing Pavilion on Solitary Hill's northern slope, Lin Bu's hermit spirit of "taking plums as wife and cranes as children" still lingers in the moss-covered couplets. At Su Causeway's spring dawn, six arched bridges pierce the emerald waves like jade hairpins, while weeping willows dip their branches to paint - perfectly illustrating Su Shi's eternal verse "both light and heavy makeup suit her well." After snow clears on a sunny day, take a painted boat to the Mid-Lake Pavilion. Outside the cabin windows, Leifeng Pagoda's golden top reflects the remaining snow, facing Baoshi Mountain's Baochu Pagoda across the lake, like the history of the Wuyue Kingdom flowing in the rippling waves. As dusk falls, the palace lanterns illuminate the Nine-Curved Corridor in Long Bridge Park, while the evening bell of Nanping resonates through the mist, startling egrets flying over Three Pools Mirroring the Moon. Only then do you understand the captivating sentiment: "Unable to leave Hangzhou behind, half the reason lies in this lake." 2. Lingyin Temple's Zen Traces: A Thousand Years of Buddhist Serenity At the mountain gate, you encounter the murmuring Cold Spring, and under the thousand-year-old sweet gum tree's shade stands the stone table where Lu Yu, the Tea Sage of Tang Dynasty, once brewed tea and discussed philosophy. In the Grand Hall, a 24.8-meter statue of Sakyamuni Buddha sits with a gentle smile, while wind chimes harmonize with chanting sutras. Amid the sandalwood incense, the carved beams and painted rafters from the Wuyue Kingdom tell tales of the "Buddhist Kingdom of the Southeast." Climbing Flying Peak along the stone path, you'll find the smiling Northern Song Dynasty statue of Maitreya Buddha and the wind-blown robes of the Yuan Dynasty Vaishravana. Suddenly, through the cliff carvings, a streak of skylight appears, bringing to life Yuan poet Sadula's verse: "Waking from an afternoon dream in the monk's chamber, window shadows cast by bamboo sway gently." During the Laba Festival, steam rises from copper cauldrons of porridge, as devotees wait quietly with their bowls amidst Buddhist chants and earthly warmth. 3. A Culinary Scroll: Southern Song Dynasty Flavors In Hefang Street's Dingsheng Cake shop, the sweet aroma of rice wafts through the steam. The master craftsman fills pear wood molds with glutinous rice flour, garnished with sugared osmanthus and pine nuts. Once military provisions for Southern Song soldiers, it now melts like sweet whispers on tourists' tongues. At Kuiyuan Restaurant, the crispy eel noodles feature amber-fried eel pieces simmered with hand-peeled river shrimp, poured over alkaline noodles - a living fossil of the "silver thread cold noodles" recorded in "Dream of Splendor Records." At Victory River Food Street under nightfall, beggar's chicken slow-cooks in yellow clay for six hours, cracked open to release lotus leaf fragrance mixed with wild aromas. At West Lake State Guest House, Dragon Well shrimp features early spring tea buds unfurling like banners in hot oil alongside translucent jade-like shrimp - one bite brings spring waters flowing across your tongue. Most delightful is the Nine-Curved Red Plum tea brewed with Hupao Spring water, watching tea leaves dance like whirling dervishes, reminiscent of Lu Yu's still-wet ink in "The Classic of Tea" noting "tea production at Qiantang's Tianzhu and Lingyin temples." 4. Elegant Lodgings: Nights of Waterside Zen At Four Seasons Hotel West Lake, the old mansion walls in Fayun Lane are covered with trumpet creeper flowers, and carved wooden windows open to tea gardens. At dusk, servers bring lotus root powder in celadon bowls, accompanied by Dingsheng cakes wrapped in lotus leaves from Qu Yuan Garden, making one wonder if they've traveled back to Lin'an City from "Tales of Wulin." At Xizhiwo's Sunset Cottage, originally the Baopu Taoist Temple from the Qianlong era, the terrace overlooks Baochu Pagoda's silhouette. Morning mountain mist flows over white walls and dark tiles, like ink diffusing on rice paper. For modern poetic charm, CIFL Hotel by the Grand Canal transforms a Republican-era factory into a steel forest, where loft room floor-to-ceiling windows frame cargo ships whistling past Gongchen Bridge, creating a fascinating fusion of industrial coolness and canal warmth. At Manluelong's Tea Hidden Guesthouse, the host gathers dewy osmanthus flowers each morning, teaching guests to make osmanthus honey, preserving not just floral fragrance but amber moments of mountain life in ceramic jars. 5. Secret Paths: Twelve Hours Across Time At 6 AM, Yanggong Causeway's plane tree tunnel stands empty as shared bikes glide past Maojiabu's reed marshes, startling egrets against distant mountains. At noon, take a water bus north along the Grand Canal to visit the Scissors and Swords Museum on Gongchen Bridge's west bank, witnessing how Zhang Xiaoquan scissors forge century-old craftsmanship. At dusk, climb City God Pavilion to watch the setting sun gild Qiantang River Bridge, while Six Harmonies Pagoda's wind chimes ring as the Qiantang Tide rushes to its millennial appointment. On rainy days, the rammed earth walls of China Academy of Art's Xiangshan Campus exude woody fragrance, while Wang Shu's architectural complex emerges through mountain mist. At corridor turns, you might glimpse students sketching under oil-paper umbrellas, momentarily bringing "Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains" to life in the rain. Late at night on Nanshan Road, the ivy outside China Academy of Art flows like jade waterfalls under spotlights, while jazz from bars mingles with ancient drum beats from Southern Song Imperial Street, magically merging past and present. Eternal Narrative of Mountains and Waters Hangzhou's beauty lives in Su Dongpo's bamboo basket dredging West Lake, in Zhang Dai's night boat wine cup, and in grandmother's osmanthus Longjing tea in ordinary alleys. This city is like a living "Along the River During the Qingming Festival," with every street corner hiding an open scripture, every wisp of tea smoke carrying unfinished verses. When you step on Xiling Seal Society's mossy stone steps or touch Hu Qing Yu Tang's vermillion medicine cabinets, you'll understand: Hangzhou isn't meant to be toured, but to be savored like a slow-paced poem, experienced with all five senses.

Hangzhou Spring🌷Eight flower viewing city walk routes recommended by locals😎 Hangzhou in March is simply the embodiment of spring's vitality🌷. When traveling to Hangzhou in spring🧳, don't miss these eight flower viewing and spring outing city walk routes👍🏻. They are all recommended by locals, and you absolutely won't be disappointed😏. 🎈1️⃣ 🗺️Route: Xizi Hotel → Jingci Temple → Taiziwan Park → Jiuyao Mountain 🌸Flowers to see: Tulips🌷, daffodils, cherry blossoms🌸, magnolias 📅Best viewing time: Mid-March - early April 🌟Highlights: Taiziwan Park, resembling a Monet garden, the stunning lakeshore of Xizi Hotel seems to encompass the entire West Lake, and finally, climbing Jiuyao Mountain offers a panoramic view of Yuhu Bay, the scenery is incredibly beautiful😍. 🎈2️⃣ 🗺️Route: China National Tea Museum, Shuangfeng Branch → Maojiabu → Yunsong Bookshop → Mulan Mountain Tea Garden 🌸Flowers to see: Cherry blossoms🌸, Thunberg spirea, Orychophragmus violaceus, crabapple blossoms, magnolias, camellias 📅Best viewing time: Mid-March - early April 🌟Highlights: This is a niche and tranquil flower viewing route, with gurgling streams along the way💧, and various flowers blooming in competition, as if you are immersed in a sea of flowers🌼. 🎈3️⃣ 🗺️Route: Children's Park → Hupao Spring → Qiantang River Bridge → White Pagoda Park 🌸Flowers to see: Cherry blossoms🌸, Paulownia flowers, crabapple blossoms, peach blossoms 📅Best viewing time: Mid-March - end of March 🌟Highlights: There are steps covered with cherry blossoms, and a small train🚂 under the cherry trees, just like stepping into a comic world, super romantic💕. 🎈4️⃣ 🗺️Route: Wugui Tan → West Lake State Guesthouse → Guo Zhuang → Quyuan Fenghe 🌸Flowers to see: Orychophragmus violaceus, cherry blossoms🌸, magnolias, crabapple blossoms, late cherry blossoms 📅Best viewing time: Mid-March - early April 🌟Highlights: This is the West Lake's back garden with very few tourists, a true sanctuary for introverts😌, allowing you to fully enjoy the tranquility and beauty. 🎈5️⃣ 🗺️Route: China Courtyard·Mengxi Garden → Yuniaoji → Big Roof 🌸Flowers to see: Cherry blossoms🌸 📅Best viewing time: Late March - early April 🌟Highlights: The perfect fusion of architecture and cherry blossoms, especially during the blue hour, is as beautiful as a movie scene🎬, super photogenic📸. 🎈6️⃣ 🗺️Route: Xixi Wetland Zhoujiacun Village 🌸Flowers to see: Purpleleaf Sandcherry, rapeseed flowers, Viburnum macrocephalum 📅Best viewing time: Mid-March - mid-April 🌟Highlights: The Purpleleaf Sandcherry here is no less beautiful than cherry blossoms🌸, and the Viburnum macrocephalum by the water has a unique charm😃. 🎈7️⃣ 🗺️Route: Maya Island → Big Yellow Duck Paradise → Xianghu Fishing Village 🌸Flowers to see: Viburnum macrocephalum, late cherry blossoms 📅Best viewing time: End of March - mid-April 🌟Highlights: Steps covered with Viburnum macrocephalum and cherry blossoms, walking on them is truly romantic🌹, as if entering a dream world. 🎈8️⃣ 🗺️Route: Xinyi Square → Dadou Road → Xiaohe Straight Street → Gongchen Bridge 🌸Flowers to see: Cherry blossoms🌸, roses

| 5 Stunning City Walk Routes. Autumn is my favorite season of the year. The air is crisp and the city is covered in gold. Here are some City Walk routes for autumn that only locals know about! 🌸 Traditional Chinese Autumn Walk (West Lake Back Garden) Best time to visit: Early to mid-December Route: Yuhuwan > Huagangguanyu > Wuguitan > Xihu State Guesthouse > Guozhuang > Quyuanfenghe Features: The West Lake Back Garden is a tranquil and picturesque place. The maple leaves and traditional Chinese architecture complement each other, making you feel like you're in a traditional Chinese painting. Every step is a beautiful scene. 🍂 Ginkgo Old Street Walk (Warm Autumn Day) Best time to visit: Late November to early December Route: Hangzhou Tower C (by taxi) > Qingyin Street > Wuliuxiang Historical Street > Shiwukuixiang Features: The ginkgo escalator is unrealistically beautiful, and the old Hangzhou atmosphere is warm and inviting. 🌳 Classic Autumn Walk (West Lake Solitary Hill) Best time to visit: Late November to early December Route: Lushuifuju > Furishan Coffee > Xiling Bridge > Xiling Seal Engravers' Society > Jingyi Academy > Pinghu Qiuyue Features: Eight-tenths of the West Lake's autumn scenery is on Solitary Hill. Enjoy coffee under the red maple trees and admire the beautiful scenery of the West Lake. The ginkgo rain at Jingyi Academy is not to be missed. 🏞️ Climb and Enjoy Autumn Walk (Prince Bay Autumn) Best time to visit: Late November to mid-December Route: Xizi Hotel > Jingci Temple > Prince Bay > Jiuyao Mountain Features: Prince Bay is as tranquil as a movie scene. Stroll around Xizi Hotel and overlook the entire West Lake. Finally, climb Jiuyao Mountain for half an hour to enjoy the autumn scenery. 🍁 Mountain Autumn Walk (Off-the-Beaten-Path Hiking Route) Best time to visit: Late November to early December Route: Shililangdang > Longjing Village > Jiuxi Yanshu > Hupao Park Features: This is a quiet and off-the-beaten-path hiking route for viewing maple leaves. Walk through the mountain tea fields and the cedar forest with babbling streams. You can enjoy the maple leaves and greenery along the way, which is very healing. 🥘 Food Recommendations - Sizhao'er Private Kitchen: A Hangzhou cuisine restaurant recommended by local friends. The braised pork with steamed buns is amazing, and the crispy pork intestines are also good. - Jinzhongbang Chinese Restaurant: The double stinky and double fresh dish is a first-time try. The fermented taste is very special, and the stinky tofu and river fresh are well combined. - Rideming Restaurant: A small restaurant in a residential area. The crispy pork intestines have no fishy smell, and the fried shrimp is very fragrant. Come to Hangzhou and experience the unique beauty of autumn! 🍁🍂

I have always been obsessed with the autumn of nature. After the beginning of autumn, Hangzhou will also enter the most beautiful season. I like to see the scene of golden leaves flying in the autumn wind and red maple leaves. I have prepared a check-in guide. Remember to save it in advance to remind yourself to remember to go. Take a citywalk in the golden city. If you don’t know how to go, you can follow my route and walk around! Hangzhou Citywalk Route Morning: Beishan Street-Xiling Bridge-Gushan Road-Yanggong Dike-Huagang Park Afternoon: Tea Museum-Yangmeiling-Li'an Temple-Jiuxi Yanshu Time. Route duration The total hiking + play time is about 6-7 hours. It is recommended to play for one day, or it can be divided into two days in the morning and afternoon. 1 Hangzhou Huagang Fish Watching 2 Xiaohezhi Street 3 Chenghuang Pavilion Wangxian Pavilion 4 Li'an Temple 5 West Lake State Guesthouse 6 Hangzhou Fuyang Shoujiang Village Ginkgo 7 Hangzhou Flower Garden 8 Hangzhou Tea Museum (Shuangfeng District) 9 Hangzhou Building C Exit Elevator 10 Gushan Road 11 Hangzhou Suilu | 2 Liangzhu Site

Here comes the ultimate West Lake checklist～ This divine route truly understands the essence of West Lake! Experience the poetic charm of "light or heavy makeup, always fitting" while skillfully avoiding crowds. Save this guide now!🌟 🚶‍♂️【Route Overview】 Total distance: 5.5km｜Duration: 4-5h｜Picture-perfect route✨ 📍【Highlight Attractions】 1️⃣ Huagang Guanyu Lakeside Residence 📸 Hidden gem spot: Bridge 100m right after entering the west gate 🐟 Must-see: The Red Fish Pond is utterly healing, and Peony Pavilion is breathtaking～ 2️⃣ Lakeside Long Corridor ⏰ Suggested time: 30min 📷 Photo tip: Capture the full corridor view! Sunlight filtering through is magical 3️⃣ Su Causeway 👣 Stroll: 40 minutes 🌿 Classical beauty: Fall in love with the Six Bridges shrouded in misty willows! 4️⃣ Prince Bay Park 🌷 Seasonal beauty: Tulip fields in spring, romantically overwhelming! 5️⃣ Jiuyao Pavilion ⛰️ Hike: ~30 minutes 🏞️ God's view: Panoramic West Lake vista will leave you awestruck! 6️⃣ Nanping Mountain 🕒 Suggested: 1h 🔔 Cultural essence: Experience the "Evening Bell at Nanping" from ancient poems 7️⃣ Jingci Temple 🎫 Ticket: ¥10 🕰️ Open: 7:00-17:00 8️⃣ Long Bridge Park 🌅 Must-see: "Sunset at Long Bridge" - sunset views that bring tears to your eyes! 9️⃣ Orioles Singing in the Willows 🌿 Feature: Shady willow-lined lakeside paths perfect for leisurely walks 🚌【Transport Tips】 👉 Bus: Routes 4/31/52 available 👉 Metro: Line 1 Longxiangqiao Station (10min walk) 📸【Photography Secrets】 ☀️ Best light: Early morning/dusk ☔️ Rainy days: Perfect for ink-wash painting aesthetics 🔭 Pro tip: Bring a telephoto lens for better shots ⚠️【Important Notes】 👍 Wear comfortable shoes (prepare for lots of walking) 🌂 Carry an umbrella! Hangzhou weather changes instantly 🕙 Early birds avoid crowds - mornings are golden! 🍽️【Food Recommendations】 1️⃣ Louwailou: The pinnacle of Hangzhou cuisine! 2️⃣ Zhiweiguan: Must-try soup dumplings～ 3️⃣ Lakeside Tea House: Perfect pairing of tea and scenery 🌸【Best Seasons】 March-May｜September-November (perfect temperatures for exploring) This route covers all West Lake's highlights! Come experience the poetic Jiangnan landscape in good weather～✨

Hangzhou's West Lake is one of China's most famous lakes, attracting countless visitors with its stunning natural scenery and profound cultural heritage. Here’s a detailed travel guide to help you plan your trip: --- ### 1. Overview of West Lake - **Location**: Downtown Hangzhou, easily accessible. - **Features**: Scenic lake and mountain views, cultural relics, and year-round beauty (spring peach blossoms and willows, summer lotus flowers, autumn osmanthus rain, winter snow remnants). - **Recommended Visit Duration**: 1-2 days. --- ### 2. Must-Visit Attractions West Lake is surrounded by numerous attractions. Here are the highlights: **Top 10 Scenes of West Lake (Classic Must-Sees)** - **Spring Dawn on Su Causeway**: The top of the Ten Scenes, perfect for cycling or strolling amid spring willows and peaches. - **Melting Snow on Broken Bridge**: Legendary site of Lady White Snake, with breathtaking winter snowscapes (an ordinary stone bridge otherwise). - **Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake**: Best spot for moon viewing in autumn, serene at night. - **Leifeng Pagoda in Evening Glow**: Offers panoramic lake views, especially stunning at sunset. - **Three Pools Mirroring the Moon**: An island reachable by boat, featured on the back of the 1 RMB note. - **Viewing Fish at Flower Pond**: Ideal for admiring fish and flowers, connecting Su Causeway and Leifeng Pagoda. - **Orioles Singing in the Willows**: Shaded by willow trees in spring, great for walks. - **Twin Peaks Piercing the Clouds (Distant View)**: On clear days, admire the South Peak and North Peak from afar. - **Evening Bell at Nanping Hill**: The resonant bells of Jingci Temple are best experienced at dusk. - **Lotus in the Breeze at Crooked Courtyard**: The prime spot for summer lotus blooms in Hangzhou. **Other Recommended Attractions** - **Yanggong Causeway**: Less crowded, scenic for cycling, with hidden gems like Maojiabu and Guo’s Villa. - **Solitary Hill**: A cultural hub featuring Xiling Seal Art Society, Zhejiang Museum (Wenlan Pavilion), and Zhongshan Park. - **Bai Causeway**: Connects Broken Bridge and Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake, lined with peach blossoms in spring. - **Precious Stone Hill**: A 15-minute climb rewards you with panoramic lake views, ideal for sunrise/sunset. --- ### 3. Recommended Itineraries **One-Day Route (Walking + Boat Ride)** 1. **Morning**: Broken Bridge → Bai Causeway → Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake → Zhejiang Museum → Solitary Hill. 2. **Lunch**: Louwailou (renowned Hangzhou cuisine) or nearby snacks. 3. **Afternoon**: Boat ride to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon → Viewing Fish at Flower Pond → Leifeng Pagoda (panoramic views). 4. **Evening**: Stroll or cycle along Su Causeway → Orioles Singing in the Willows (sunset). **Two-Day Route (In-Depth Exploration)** - **Day 1**: East Lake route (Lakeside Walk, Broken Bridge, Bai Causeway, Solitary Hill) + Lakeside Music Fountain night tour. - **Day 2**: West Lake route (Yanggong Causeway, Maojiabu, Lotus in the Breeze) + Lingyin Temple/Feilai Peak (nearby Buddhist sites). --- ### 4. Transportation 1. **Around the Lake**: - **Walking**: Su Causeway and Bai Causeway (2-3 hours total). - **Cycling**: Shared bikes abound; recommended for lakeside or Yanggong Causeway routes. - **Electric Cart**: Lake loop (¥40/person, hop-on/hop-off). - **Boats**: From ¥55 (includes Three Pools ticket); docks at Lakeside, Flower Pond, etc. 2. **Public Transit**: Metro Line 1 to Longxiangqiao Station (closest), or buses (e.g., Routes 7, 27). --- ### 5. Food Recommendations 1. **Hangzhou Cuisine**: - **Louwailou (Solitary Hill branch)**: West Lake Vinegar Fish, Dongpo Pork. - **Zhiweiguan (Lakeside branch)**: Soup dumplings, cat’s ear noodles. - Budget-friendly options: Grandma’s Home, New White Deer. 2. **Snacks**: - Scallion pancake rolls, Dingsheng cakes, Pian Er Chuan noodles, lotus root starch (freshly made by the lake). 3. **Tea**: - Longjing tea (best in spring); try Meijiawu or Longjing Village. --- ### 6. Accommodation Tips - **Lakeside Area**: Convenient transport, vibrant nightlife (e.g., Grand Hyatt Hangzhou, budget hotels). - **West Lake West Line**: Quiet ambiance (e.g., West Lake State Guesthouse, B&Bs). - **Qingzhiwu**: Artsy vibe, affordable B&Bs. --- ### 7. Tips & Cautions 1. **Tickets**: West Lake is free; separate fees for Leifeng Pagoda (¥40), Lingyin Temple (¥45 + ¥30 incense coupon). 2. **Seasonal Notes**: - **Spring (Mar-Apr)**: Peach blossoms; expect rain. - **Summer (Jun-Aug)**: Lotus blooms; heat and sun protection needed. - **Autumn (Sep-Nov)**: Osmanthus fragrance, pleasant weather. - **Winter (Dec-Feb)**: Rare snowscapes, fewer tourists. 3. **Avoid Scams**: - Decline "free guides" or "cheap Longjing tea" offers. - Be wary of street vendors selling tea/pearls. ### 8. Nearby Extensions - **Lingyin Temple & Feilai Peak**: Buddhist landmarks northwest of the lake. - **Xixi Wetland**: Ecological park for nature lovers. - **Songcheng**: Theme park featuring *Eternal Romance of Songcheng* show. --- West Lake’s charm lies in its poetic tranquility. Slow down and savor its timeless beauty, as described in the verse: *"Comparing West Lake to Lady Xizi, she is always charming with either light or heavy makeup."* If time allows, explore nearby tea plantations and ancient villages to experience Hangzhou’s laid-back lifestyle!

✨West Lake, as the iconic landmark of Hangzhou, shines like a dazzling pearl, exuding enchanting charm. Here’s a travel guide to help you explore the beauty of West Lake. 📍Transportation Guide 🚇Subway: Take Line 1 to Longxiangqiao Station (Exit C) to reach the lakeside core area, or Line 7 to Wushan Square Station for Liulangwenying. 🚌Bus: Tourist lines (Y-series) connect major attractions, and there are sightseeing buses around the lake with section-based fares. 🌟Recommended Itineraries - **One-Day Highlights Tour** Broken Bridge Remnant Snow → Bai Causeway (Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake) → Solitary Hill → Take a painted boat to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon → Viewing Fish at Flower Harbor → Leifeng Pagoda → Liulangwenying. This route covers many classic West Lake sights, allowing you to check off multiple famous spots at once. - **Two-Day In-Depth Tour** Day 1: Yuewang Temple → Breeze-Ruffled Lotus at Quyuan Garden → Spring Dawn at Su Causeway → Yanggong Causeway (Guozhuang, Maojiabu). Day 2: Jingci Temple (Evening Bell at Nanping Hill) → Leifeng Pagoda → Long Bridge Park → Hefang Street. The first day focuses on the natural scenery and cultural heritage of the northern route, while the second day explores the historical relics and local vibes of the southern route. 🍜Food Recommendations - **Hangzhou Cuisine Restaurants**: Must-try dishes include West Lake Vinegar Fish at Louwailou and Xiaolongbao at Zhiweiguan. - **Local Snacks**: Scallion Pancakes and Dingsheng Cake on Hefang Street, or stinky tofu at Wushan Night Market—all mouthwatering delights. 🛍Nearby Shopping - **Hefang Street**: A charming ancient street lined with time-honored shops, perfect for buying handicrafts and sampling snacks. - **Intime 77 (in77)**: A trendy shopping hub with many Instagrammable spots, ideal for shopping and dining. 📸Photo Spots - **Broken Bridge Remnant Snow**: Capture the stunning S-curve of West Lake and the viral window view. - **Xiling Seal Art Society**: The back gate offers a "Jiangnan ink painting window" angle and a photogenic long bench. - **West Lake State Guesthouse**: Find the same vantage point as the "Leifeng Pagoda in Sunset Glow," with magnolia blossoms overhead and the pagoda in the distance. 💕Practical Tips - Best seasons: March–May (spring blooms), September–October (autumn osmanthus fragrance), and winter after snowfall. - Plan boat rides in advance—painted boats and rowing boats each offer unique experiences. - During holidays, West Lake gets crowded; book meals and tickets early, as popular restaurants often have long queues.

💖 West Lake is a poem, a natural painting, and a beautiful, moving story. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning, this guide will help you unlock the unique beauty of West Lake! 🚗 Transportation Guide 🚇 Metro: Take Line 1 to "Longxiangqiao Station" (Exit C) and walk about 10 minutes to the lakeside area. Alternatively, take Line 7 to "Wushan Square Station" for quick access to the West Lake vicinity. 🚌 Bus: Multiple bus routes (e.g., No. 7, 27, Y2) serve the area—choose the best one based on your starting point. 🚗 Driving: Parking around West Lake is limited, and some areas have traffic restrictions. Public transport is recommended. If driving, check parking availability on your map app in advance. 🏞️ Must-Visit Attractions 1. **Three Pools Mirroring the Moon** 🌕 Known as the "Top Scenic Spot of West Lake," it’s featured on the back of China’s 1-yuan bill. Take a boat to admire the three stone pagodas up close. On moonlit nights, candlelight inside the pagodas reflects on the lake, creating a magical scene. 2. **Melting Snow on Broken Bridge** ❄️ One of West Lake’s Ten Scenes. In winter, snow lingers on the bridge’s shaded side while the sunny side melts, forming a silver ribbon across the lake—perfect for snow viewing. Even without snow, the bridge is steeped in the romantic legend of Xu Xian and Lady White Snake. 3. **Spring Dawn at Su Causeway** 🌳 A nearly 3-km causeway built by poet Su Shi during the Northern Song Dynasty. In spring, willow trees and blooming peach flowers line the path, making it feel like a painted scroll. 4. **Leifeng Pagoda** ⛩️ "Leifeng Pagoda is like an old monk, while Baochu Pagoda is like a beauty." Climb to the top for panoramic West Lake views, especially stunning at sunset when the pagoda glows golden. It’s also tied to the *Legend of the White Snake*. 5. **Lotus in the Breeze at Crooked Courtyard** 🪷 A summer must-visit! From June to August, lotus flowers bloom vibrantly, their fragrance blending with the surrounding hills and pavilions. 🍜 Food Recommendations 🍲 **Louwailou**: A historic Hangzhou restaurant serving classics like West Lake Vinegar Fish, Beggar’s Chicken, and Longjing Shrimp—authentic local flavors. 🥟 **Zhiweiguan**: Combines traditional snacks and Hangzhou dishes. Favorites include Cat’s Ear Noodles, Pian Er Chuan, and Dingsheng Cake—great value! 🍵 **Lakeside Teahouse**: Sip Longjing tea by the lake, enjoying the view and a leisurely moment. 🛌 Accommodation Options 🏨 **Luxury**: West Lake State Guesthouse or Hyatt Hangzhou—elegant, top-tier service with stunning lake views. 💰 **Budget-Friendly**: Stay in nearby B&Bs (e.g., Qingzhiwu, Siyanjing) for a local, artsy vibe at affordable prices. ⏰ Suggested Itineraries **One-Day Classic Route**: Morning: Broken Bridge → Bai Causeway → Autumn Moon on Calm Lake → Solitary Hill → Zhongshan Park → Lunch at Louwailou Afternoon: Boat to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon → Viewing Fish at Flower Harbor → Su Causeway → Leifeng Pagoda Evening: Dinner at Hubin Intime Mall + West Lake Music Fountain **Two-Day Leisurely Route**: Day 1: Crooked Courtyard → Yue-Wang Temple → Guo’s Villa → Maojiabu (tranquil beauty) → Longjing Village tea tasting Day 2: Lingyin Temple → Feilai Peak → Nine Creeks in Misty Forest → Nine Creeks and Eighteen Gullies → Sunset at West Lake 📸 Photography Tips 1. Best angle for Three Pools: Shoot from the boat’s stern. 2. Leifeng Pagoda’s top floor and outdoor deck offer perfect West Lake panoramas. 3. Soft morning/evening light makes for the best photos! ⚠️ Notes 1. Avoid holidays for fewer crowds—plan ahead. 2. Summer: Sunscreen + bug spray; Winter: Dress warmly. 3. Follow safety rules on boats.

Complete Travel Guide to West Lake 1. Must-Visit Attractions Broken Bridge Remnant Snow The top scenic spot among the Ten Scenes of West Lake and the origin of the Legend of the White Snake. After winter snowfall, the bridge surface appears faint and romantic; in other seasons, stroll along the lakeside to enjoy the view of Baochu Pagoda reflecting in the West Lake landscape. Su Causeway in Spring Dawn A green causeway running through the north and south of West Lake, 2.8 kilometers long. In spring, willows sway gently and peach blossoms bloom; you can cycle or walk, connecting scenic spots like Quyuan Fenghe and Huagang Guanyu. Three Pools Mirroring the Moon The largest island in West Lake, accessible by boat (ticket including admission 55 RMB). The scene on the back of the one-yuan banknote was taken here. Night tours offer the spectacular view of "33 moons." Leifeng Pagoda Climb the pagoda for a panoramic view of West Lake, with an elevator inside (admission 40 RMB). At sunset, Leifeng Pagoda and Baochu Pagoda form the classic "Twin Towers Facing Each Other" scene. Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake A lakeside viewing platform, best for moonlit nights in autumn. During the day, you can photograph the reflections of Broken Bridge and Bai Causeway here. 2. Transportation Guide Arrival from Outside: Flight: Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport → Airport shuttle bus to Wulinmen, transfer to Metro Line 1 to Longxiangqiao Station (5-minute walk to West Lake). High-speed Rail: Hangzhou East Station → Metro Line 1 direct to Longxiangqiao; Hangzhou Station → 10-minute walk to West Lake. Within the Scenic Area: Shared Bikes: Widely available around the area, 1.5 RMB per half hour, recommended for riding along Su Causeway and Yang Gong Causeway. Sightseeing Bus: Hail to stop, loop ticket 40 RMB (divided into 4 segments, 10 RMB each). Boat Tours: Piers at Hubin, Broken Bridge, Huagang Guanyu; rowboats 150 RMB/hour (up to 6 people), paddle boats 180 RMB/hour. 3. Tickets and Opening Hours Attraction Ticket Price Opening Hours Notes Leifeng Pagoda 40 RMB 8:00-20:30 Elevator to top included Three Pools Mirroring the Moon 55 RMB (including boat ticket) 8:00-17:00 Last boat at 16:00 Yuewang Temple 25 RMB 7:30-17:30 Reservation required Guo Zhuang 10 RMB 8:00-17:00 Classic Jiangnan private garden Tips: The outer West Lake area is free to enter; some attractions require separate tickets. It is recommended to purchase the "Hangzhou Park Annual Pass" (50 RMB/year, includes multiple attractions). 4. Classic Tour Routes A. Half-Day Highlights Tour Broken Bridge Remnant Snow → Bai Causeway → Gushan (Xiling Seal Engravers’ Society, Zhejiang Museum) → Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake → Su Causeway → Leifeng Pagoda → Liulang Wenying B. Full-Day In-Depth Tour Yang Gong Causeway (Guo Zhuang, Maojiabu) → Yuhu Bay → Three Pools Mirroring the Moon → Huagang Guanyu → Taiziwan Park → Wushan Tianfeng (Chenghuang Pavilion) C. Night Tour Experience Hubin Pedestrian Street Music Fountain (19:00/20:00) → Night boat tour on West Lake (19:10-21:00, 80 RMB/person) → Nanshan Road Bar Street 5. Food Map Lou Wai Lou (Gushan Branch) Must-try: West Lake Vinegar Fish (grass carp), Longjing Shrimp, Dongpo Pork Average cost: 200 RMB per person Tip: Long queues, recommend off-peak times or advance reservation. Zhiweiguan · Weizhuang (Yang Gong Causeway Branch) Recommended: Cat’s Ear Noodles, Soup Dumplings, Crab Roe Tofu Average cost: 80 RMB per person Highlight: Lakeside seats with sunset views. Hefang Street Snacks Scallion Pancake (Grandma Sun’s), Dingsheng Cake (Jiang Shunfa), Lotus Root Starch (Jia Ou Tiancheng). 6. Accommodation Recommendations Luxury Hotels: West Lake State Guesthouse (Yang Gong Causeway, same view as G20 Summit) Amanfayun (near Lingyin, Zen-style resort) Unique Homestays: Chaxiang Lishe (Manjuelong, surrounded by tea gardens) Longjing Mood (Beishan Street, near Broken Bridge) Budget Options: Qingzhiwu Youth Hostel (near Zhejiang University Yuquan Campus) Home Inn Select (Hubin business district, direct metro access) 7. Best Seasons and Tips Seasons: March-May: Cherry blossoms (Bai Causeway), tulips (Taiziwan), Longjing tea picking experience. September-October: Osmanthus fragrance (Manjuelong), Mid-Autumn moon viewing (Three Pools Mirroring the Moon). Notes: Sun and mosquito protection: Bring sunscreen and insect repellent in summer. Avoid peak times: Weekends and holidays see a surge in visitors; arrive before 8 AM at popular spots. Civilized tourism: Do not feed the lake wildlife to protect the ecosystem. Additional Nearby Attractions Lingyin Temple (Feilai Peak): 5 km from West Lake, accessible by Bus No. 7. Xixi Wetland: Directly reachable by Metro Line 3, enjoy boating in the wetlands. Grand Canal: Near Gongchen Bridge, experience water town culture. The beauty of West Lake lies in the changing seasons and leisurely pace. May this guide help you embark on a poetic journey!

Summer Fun at West Lake: Lotus Viewing & Night Tour Guide｜Trip.com's Top Picks Where to go this summer? Hangzhou's West Lake dazzles with its "endless lotus leaves touching the sky" scenery! This 2024 guide covers boat tours, Instagram spots, and night activities to experience West Lake like a pro! 🌿 Must-Visit Attractions - Quyuan Garden (Free): Best lotus blooms July-August, ideal photography 6-8AM. Book Hanfu photoshoots on Trip.com. - Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (Boat ticket ¥55 includes island access): Save ¥20 with Trip.com's combo ticket (boat + Leifeng Pagoda). Sunset cruises avoid midday heat. - Su Causeway Night Walk (Free): Lakeside lights illuminate after 7:30PM for a nighttime version of "Spring Dawn at Su Causeway." 🚣 Beat-the-Heat Activities - Rowing Boat Hidden Route (¥150/hour): Book Trip.com's "Guozhuang-Maojiabu" route through water lilies. - Children's Palace "Sunset Ferris Wheel" (¥4/ride): Most romantic bargain by the lake—shorter queues after 5PM. 🍜 Foodie Bonus Lakeside Tea at West Lake Tiandi (¥80/person): Sip Longjing tea with Leifeng Pagoda sunset views. Reserve 3 days ahead on Trip.com to skip lines. 💡 Trip.com Exclusive "West Lake State Guesthouse Afternoon Tea + Rowing Boat" summer package ¥298! DM us for VIP seating tips at the Musical Fountain. [Tips] Visit 7-10AM or 4-7PM during heatwaves. Shared bikes are scarce—rent e-bikes via Trip.com (¥49/day). Check real-time lotus updates by searching "West Lake Summer" in Trip.com's travel community!

1. Park Overview [Rainbow] Located at No. 39 Hupao Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Hupao Park is a landscape park themed around "springs," renowned for its Hupao Spring. Alongside Longjing Spring and Yuquan Spring, it is celebrated as one of the "Three Famous Springs of West Lake." The spring water is sweet and mellow, earning it the title of "The Third Finest Spring Under Heaven." The park boasts a tranquil environment with lush greenery, dotted with pavilions and towers, making it a famous summer retreat in Hangzhou. [OrangeHeart] 2. Highlights [TrafficLightVertical] **Hupao Spring**: The park's centerpiece, where crystal-clear, sweet-tasting water seeps from the mountain rocks. Legend says the Tang Dynasty monk Master Xingkong resided here, and the spring was named after "two tigers digging the ground to create a spring." [StarEyes] **Li Shutong Memorial Hall**: A dedicated museum honoring Li Shutong (Master Hongyi), a renowned modern artist and educator, showcasing his life and artistic achievements. [Kiss] **Jigong Hall**: A temple dedicated to the Living Buddha Jigong, with thriving incense offerings. **Dreaming Tiger Sculpture**: A lifelike sculpture based on the legend of "Tigers Dreaming of the Spring." [Congratulate] **Hupao Temple**: An ancient temple with a serene atmosphere. 3. Recommended Routes [TrafficLightLateral] **Classic Route**: Main Gate → Hupao Spring → Li Shutong Memorial Hall → Jigong Hall → Dreaming Tiger Sculpture → Hupao Temple → Main Gate **Leisurely Route**: Main Gate → Hupao Spring → Tea House → Forest Walk → Main Gate [SnowMountain] 4. Practical Info [Airplane] **Address**: No. 39 Hupao Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou **Hours**: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM **Ticket**: ¥15/person **Transport**: - Bus: Take routes 4, 194, 197, or 318 and alight at "Hupao" station. - Drive: Navigate to "Hupao Park"; parking is available nearby. **Suggested Visit Duration**: 2–3 hours [Kiss] 5. Tips [Like] [One] Hupao Spring water is drinkable; bring a cup to taste. [Two] Tea houses in the park serve Longjing tea brewed with Hupao Spring water. [LikeUU] [Three] In summer, guard against mosquitoes and sunburn. [Four] Nearby attractions like Hangzhou Zoo and Manlong Guiyu can be combined for a day trip. [ThumbsUp] 6. Nearby Eats [Clink] [One] **Hupao Vegetarian Cuisine**: Light and healthy meals served at Hupao Temple. [Two] **Hangzhou Cuisine**: Try local specialties like West Lake Vinegar Fish and Dongpo Pork at nearby restaurants. [Tea] 7. Stay Recommendations [LoveHotel] **Hangzhou Hupao Resort Hotel**: Elegant and close to the park. **Hangzhou West Lake State Guesthouse**: A luxury hotel near West Lake. [Wedding] 8. Best Seasons [FireBalloon] Year-round: Spring for flowers, summer for retreat, autumn for foliage, winter for snow. [SkyWheel] 9. Notes [Glister] [One] Protect the environment; no littering. [Two] Preserve cultural relics; no graffiti. [Fire] [Three] Stay safe; avoid climbing hazardous areas. Hupao Park

Hangzhou West Lake State Guesthouse is located at the heart of West Lake, nestled against mountains and facing the water. Spanning 360,000 square meters with over 2,000 meters of private lakeshore, it's hailed as "the West Lake within West Lake." Guests can admire the "Spring Dawn at Su Causeway" up close, gaze at the "Leifeng Pagoda in Evening Glow" from afar, and easily walk to attractions like "Viewing Fish at Flower Harbor" and "Breeze-ruffled Lotus at Quyuan Garden." 📜 Historical Legacy: Originally private gardens like Liu Zhuang and Kang Zhuang, it boasts profound historical significance as the site where major events unfolded, including the drafting of New China's first Constitution and the "Sino-US Joint Communiqué." It has also hosted numerous Chinese and foreign leaders. 🌳 Garden Landscapes: Redesigned by master landscape architect Dai Nianci, the courtyards feature exquisite architecture with pavilions, bridges, winding corridors, bamboo groves, ancient trees, and unique rocks arranged harmoniously—every step reveals a scene straight out of a Jiangnan watercolor painting. 🥢 Culinary Excellence: Home to the famed "Zhejiang's Premier Dining Hall" floating restaurant and various private rooms and banquet halls. The Ziwei Restaurant, consistently ranked among "China's TOP 50," serves state banquet-standard dishes like West Lake Vinegar Fish, Braised Pork, and Matsutake Rice. 🏘 Accommodations: Offers over 170 rooms across seven villa-style buildings, including presidential suites. Rooms maximize lake and garden views, equipped with smart environmental monitoring systems, custom mattresses, Nespresso machines, and Bulgari amenities.

Orioles Singing in the Willows, one of the Ten Scenes of West Lake in Hangzhou, is famous for its willow-shaded paths and melodious birdsong. Beyond its picturesque scenery lie several lesser-known spots perfect for solitary walks. Escape the crowds, find tranquility, listen to the breeze through willows, and admire the shimmering lake to unwind completely. This guide reveals 4 serene hideaways in Orioles Singing in the Willows and offers detailed tips to help you enjoy peaceful alone time. 【Address】 📍 Orioles Singing in the Willows Park No. 87 Nanshan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang (near West Lake Scenic Area) 【Why Visit】 ✅ Quiet and scenic, ideal for solitude ✅ Year-round charm: spring willows, summer lotuses, autumn maples, winter snow ✅ Free admission, great value ✅ Easy access with abundant nearby dining 【Ticket】 🎫 Free (open park, no ticket required) 【Opening Hours】 🕒 Open all day (recommended visit: 6:00-18:00) 【Best Seasons】 🌸 Spring (Mar-May): Budding willows, cherry blossoms, and birdsong for perfect strolls. 🍃 Summer (Jun-Aug): Shady greenery and cool lake breezes at dawn/dusk. 🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov): Colorful foliage and poetic ambiance. ❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb): Snow-clad West Lake, serene and picturesque. 【Recommended Route (2hrs)】 🚶‍♂️ 1. Nanshan Road Entrance → 2. Cuiguang Pavilion (panoramic lake views) → 3. Orioles Singing Hall (birdsong + lakeside) → 4. Willow Wave Bridge (photo spot) → 5. Lakeside walk → 6. Qingbo Gate Ruins (historic site) 1. Cuiguang Pavilion - Why: Secluded spot with West Lake vistas, great for reading/meditating. - Duration: 20-30 mins - Photo tip: Frame Leifeng Pagoda through the pavilion. 2. Orioles Singing Hall - Why: Traditional architecture with birdsong, ideal for quiet reflection. - Duration: 15-20 mins - Photo tip: Ornate corridors and latticed windows exude classic charm. 3. Willow Wave Bridge - Why: Willow-fringed bridge over glistening water, insta-worthy. - Duration: 10-15 mins - Photo tip: Shoot through willow branches for poetic framing. 4. Qingbo Gate Ruins - Why: Rarely visited historic site for contemplative moments. - Duration: 15 mins - Photo tip: Capture weathered walls for rustic aesthetics. 【Suggested Duration】 ⏳ 2-3 hours (leisurely pace for photos/walks) 【Photo Spots】 📸 Must-shoot: 1. Cuiguang Pavilion’s lake panorama 2. Orioles Singing Hall’s carved windows 3. Willow Wave Bridge’s lakeside willows 4. Qingbo Gate Ruins’ ancient vibes 【Highlights】 ✨ Panoramic views (Cuiguang Pavilion) ✨ Nature-meets-architecture (Orioles Singing Hall) ✨ Lyrical willow shores (Willow Wave Bridge) ✨ Historic exploration (Qingbo Gate) 【Cost】 💰 Free (park entry). Tea/meals: ~¥30-50/person. 【Tips】 ✔️ Visit early morning/evening for fewer crowds. ✔️ Bring mosquito repellent in summer. ✔️ Pack snacks/tea for lakeside picnics. 【Transport】 🚇 Metro: Line 1 to "Longxiangqiao Station", 15-min walk. 🚌 Bus: Routes 4/12/31 to "Qingbomen Station". 🚲 Bike: Rentals available near West Lake. 【Pro Tips】 🔹 Avoid weekends/holidays. 🔹 Rain adds misty charm. 【Reminders】 ⚠️ No littering. ⚠️ Watch for slippery lakeside paths. ⚠️ Sunscreen in summer, windproof layers in winter. 【Avoid】 ❌ Skip electric carts—walk to savor views. ❌ Overpriced souvenirs; shop locally instead. 【Local Eats】 🍜 Try: 1. West Lake Vinegar Fish (Louwailou Restaurant) 2. Scallion Pancake Rolls (street stalls) 3. Dingsheng Cake (Zhiweiguan) 4. Longjing Tea Shrimp (Green Tea Restaurant) 【Hotels】 🏨 Budget: Home Inn (West Lake Nanshan Branch) 🏨 Mid-range: West Lake State Guesthouse (quiet, nearby) 🏨 Boutique: Xixia Lodge (artsy lakeside stay) [🎉] 【Final Note】 Let Orioles Singing in the Willows slow your pace and soothe your soul—whether you’re seeking solitude or snapshots. May this guide inspire your perfect solo escape! 🌿 📌 Save for your trip! 🚀

When visiting Hangzhou, the Hangzhou Xihu State Guesthouse is the top choice for accommodation! It's not just a place to stay but an unforgettable experience. Staying at the State Guesthouse allows you to enjoy not only the title of "West Lake's Premier Garden" but also the less crowded and stunningly beautiful West Lake scenic area, quietly savoring its exclusive tranquility and elegance. The Hangzhou Xihu State Guesthouse carries profound historical significance, with every corner seemingly whispering tales of the past. Staying here means stepping into history. The garden in the early morning is incredibly serene, with a fresh environment and lush greenery. You can follow the map on your room key to visit the main attractions along the way—though it’s a bit of a walk, totaling over 8,000 steps, truly worthy of its reputation as West Lake's Premier Garden. Dingjia Hill is neither high nor steep, taking just three to five minutes to climb. The air at the top is exceptionally fresh—no wonder Chairman Mao chose it as his reading spot. Note: The hotel's environment is impeccable, but on rainy days, the rooms can have a strong musty smell, and the facilities are quite outdated. At this price point, there should be better options. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking. This hotel preserves the imperial garden style of the Southern Song Dynasty, with the shimmering beauty of West Lake and a pool of emerald water veiled in mist. The gardens are bordered by traditional Chinese corridors, with wooden eaves and bluish-gray stone slabs, exuding a restrained yet profound charm—like a true paradise on earth.

This way you can avoid queues: The first boat departs around 6:40 AM - you can book the boatman in advance If you miss the first boat, you'll need to queue later🧸Weekends and holidays see massive queues Evenings also have no queues, but the scenery isn't as good as daytime. 🚣 Boarding Points ✅ Recommended Majiawan PierEasy to locate🛶 with many boats available. You can also start from Huagang Guanyu (Viewing Fish at Flower Pond) for equally stunning views. 🚢 Route 🚣‍♂️ Majiawan Pier - Kuahong Bridge - West Lake State Guesthouse - Water Forest - Wuguitan (Turtle Pond) - Yuqian Temple - Jihong Bridge - Yuhu Bay - Small Lakeside Teahouse - Little South Lake - Huagang Guanyu (Southern End of Su Causeway)🔚🚣‍♂️ ⌚️ The entire journey takes about 1 hour 40 minutes🚣‍♂️ passing through 9 bridge arches, all great for photos.

🌷 Attraction Introduction Prince Bay Park is Hangzhou's earliest wedding-themed park and a botanical landscape-focused garden. Nestled against Jiuyao Mountain and Nanping Mountain to the south, adjacent to Chishanbu to the west, and bordering Huagang Guanyu (Viewing Fish at Flower Pond) to the north, its name originates from the Southern Song Dynasty when two princes, Zhuangwen and Jingxian, were buried here. Distinguished by its elegant cherry blossoms and vibrant tulips, the park hosts an annual tulip exhibition in March as its highlight. For instance, the 2025 exhibition featured around 400,000 bulbs and seedlings across 8,000 square meters, showcasing numerous tulip varieties. Key blooming areas include the Hand-in-Hand Statue, Welcome Pavilion, Fanghuai Pavilion, small islands, and Xiaoyao Slope. 📍 Location No. 5-1 Nanshan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, south of Su Di Chun Xiao (Spring Dawn at Su Causeway) and Huagang Guanyu, west of Lei Feng Xi Zhao (Leifeng Pagoda in Evening Glow) and Nanping Wan Zhong (Evening Bell at Nanping Hill). 🎫 Tickets & Opening Hours Free on regular days; advance booking required during peak season (flower exhibition). Open 08:00-17:00. 👣 Itinerary & Routes Enter via the west gate to explore Cherry Blossom Slope, Lanying Pavilion, Grand Lawn, Arch Bridge, Youran Pavilion, Windmill, and Wangshan Ping before exiting at North Gate 2. Enjoy picnics, kite-flying, or the artificial waterfall. 🏨 Nearby Accommodations Options range from budget-friendly chains like Jinjiang Inn and Hanting Hotel to luxury stays like West Lake State Guesthouse. 🍜 Local Cuisine Try Hangzhou specialties like West Lake Vinegar Fish and Longjing Shrimp at renowned restaurants such as Louwailou and Zhiweiguan. 🚌 Transportation Take metro + bus routes (e.g., Bus 4, 194, 197, 318) or Bus 1314 to Su Di Station. 📷 Photography Tips Capture close-ups against tulip fields; use bridges, streams, and pavilions for classical or artistic shots; popular angles include Fanghuai Pavilion for high-quality results. ⚠ Notes Book tickets early for peak season; follow park rules (no trampling lawns/flowers); secure belongings; limited parking for self-drivers.

Hangzhou is a peaceful city, with good air, a young area, and delicious food (some of it).

Hangzhou West Lake Travel Guide | 2 Days & 1 Night in Paradise! 🌿 📍 Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal (March-May for cherry blossoms and peach flowers, September-November for stunning autumn colors). In summer, visit early morning or evening to avoid midday heat. 🚶‍♂️ Classic Itinerary (2 Days & 1 Night): **Day 1: West Lake Highlights** 1️⃣ **Broken Bridge Remnant Snow** (iconic landmark, where Xu Xian and Lady White Snake met) → 2️⃣ **Bai Causeway** (stroll along the lake with willow-lined paths) → 3️⃣ **Autumn Moon over Calm Lake** (best panoramic lake view) → 4️⃣ **Three Pools Mirroring the Moon** (take a boat to the island, spot the 1 RMB bill backdrop) → 5️⃣ **Leifeng Pagoda** (overlook the entire West Lake, breathtaking sunset views) → 6️⃣ **Spring Dawn at Su Causeway** (cycle or walk, the top-rated "Ten Scenes of West Lake") 🍽️ Food Recs: Lunch: **Louwailou Restaurant** (West Lake vinegar fish, Dongpo pork) Dinner: **Hefang Street** (Dingsheng cakes, scallion pancakes, Longjing shrimp) **Day 2: Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration** 1️⃣ **Yang Gong Causeway** (scenic and less crowded, perfect for cycling) → 2️⃣ **Maojiabu** (wild charm, great photos in reed marshes) → 3️⃣ **Lingyin Temple** (prayer and blessings in this ancient temple) → 4️⃣ **Longjing Village** (sip authentic Longjing tea, try tea-picking) 🏨 Stay Suggestions: Lakeside B&Bs (Qingzhiwu or Siyanjing area recommended) Luxury Picks: **West Lake State Guesthouse, Four Seasons Hangzhou at West Lake** 💡 Pro Tips: ✅ **Transport**: West Lake is vast—combine walking, shared bikes, and sightseeing buses. ✅ **Tickets**: Free for West Lake, 40 RMB for Leifeng Pagoda, 45 RMB for Lingyin Temple (includes Feilai Peak). ✅ **Avoid Scams**: Skip "free guides"; only board boats at official docks. ✅ **Attire**: Wear comfy shoes! Expect 20,000+ steps daily 👟 ✨ West Lake’s beauty isn’t just in its views—it’s in slowing down to savor the moment.

I've discovered the hidden romance of West Lake! The entire route avoids crowded areas, and every shot you take looks like a movie scene. 🛬【Itinerary】: ① Get off at the South Entrance of Su Causeway and walk along it for 3 minutes ② Spot the West Lake Cultural Creative Convenience Store, and diagonally across is the [Majiawan Dock] ③ Board the boat and ask the boatman to take the [Turtle Pond Route]—they'll know exactly what you mean. The whole journey takes over an hour, and the boatman will also point out scenic spots along the way. ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】: 🐟 The route passes by one of West Lake's Ten Scenes: Viewing Fish at Flower Harbor. 🐢 Passing by Turtle Pond, you'll see vast stretches of late-blooming cherry blossoms, as if stepping into a fairy tale world. 🦆 Yuhu Bay and Jihong Bridge in Hangzhou West Lake Scenic Area are perfect for photography, a favorite spot for hanfu-clad ladies. 🐏 The final stop, Yanggong Causeway in Hangzhou West Lake Scenic Area, greets you with lush greenery, offering a real-life "Wizard of Oz" experience. 🏨【Accommodation Tips】: Hangzhou Ben Chuxin Yuan (West Lake Longjing Branch) Located about a 10-minute drive from West Lake on Longjing Tea Mountain, this is one of the best homestays in Longjing Village. All rooms face south, offering panoramic views of verdant scenery—a natural oxygen bar. 🚌【Transportation Tips】: Take the West Lake Inner Loop bus and get off at Su Causeway Station, then walk six minutes to Majiawan Dock for hand-rowed boats. 🧡【Tips】: Hand-rowed boats cost approx. ¥50 per person, while oar-propelled boats cost approx. ¥40 per person. For detailed selection advice, check out the guide.

When it comes to Hangzhou's garden attractions, many people absolutely love them. Each one embodies a unique beauty of the Jiangnan region and carries profound historical and cultural charm! Well-known places like "Guo Zhuang," "Hu Xueyan Former Residence," "Yunsong Bookhouse," "Gao Zhuang," "Jiang Zhuang," "Xiling Seal Society," "Agate Temple," "Xiaoyin Garden," and "Liu Zhuang" are all highly popular destinations. Visiting these gardens offers both the gentle elegance of Jiangnan waterways and the grandeur of northern gardens! So here's the question: if you want to explore garden attractions that are a bit special, where should you go? Uncle Cricket recommends visiting Hangzhou's "West Lake's Premier Garden," which will be fully open in 2025. With its rich century-old heritage, it's worth a visit for those who are interested! I'm talking about Hangzhou's Liu Zhuang, also known as "Water Bamboo Residence," honored as the "West Lake's Premier Garden," and now called "West Lake State Guesthouse"! Historically, Liu Zhuang was founded by Liu Xuexun, a prominent figure from the late Qing Dynasty. His courtesy name was Wenchu, also known as Wenchu, with the alias Ougen. He was from Ancient Crane Village in Xiagong Town, Xiangshan County (now Zhongshan City), Guangdong Province. He became a provincial graduate (Juren) during Emperor Guangxu's reign and later passed the imperial examination. It's said that after becoming a Juren, he traveled to Beijing the following year for the metropolitan examination. On his return journey through Hangzhou, he was deeply captivated by West Lake's scenery. He sighed, "My hometown has no such beautiful landscapes." Later, after arriving in Beijing, his official career stalled, with no promotion in the Ministry of Personnel for many years. With no hope for advancement, he turned his attention to making money. He took over the "Weixing" business, a form of gambling in the late Qing Dynasty that revolved around imperial examinations in the Guangdong and Guangxi regions. He soon became extremely wealthy and was known as "Liu Three Kingdoms," meaning "talented enough to glorify the nation, wealthy enough to rival a nation, and with concubines beautiful enough to topple a nation." By 1900, at 45 years old, Liu Xuexun grew disillusioned with the darkness of officialdom, the deceit, and his political failures. He invested all his energy and wealth into building a private villa by Hangzhou's West Lake, naming it the "Water Bamboo Residence" [initially built in 1898, the 24th year of Emperor Guangxu's reign]. The original villa featured a Lingnan style, with corridors surrounding the small buildings, allowing visitors to enjoy the lake and mountain scenery even on rainy days or under the scorching sun. The Water Bamboo Residence was finally completed in 1905. Most impressively, Liu Zhuang boasts a 2-kilometer lakefront. While crowds flood the Su Causeway across the lake, visitors to the State Guesthouse can enjoy a quiet corner of West Lake all to themselves. The garden features attractions like the Mountain View Tower (the library), Flower Bamboo Peace Hall, Dream Fragrance Pavilion, Lake Mountain Spring Dawn, Pine Island Long Spring, Green Bamboo Gallery, and more, all quite eye-catching! By 2025, Hangzhou's Liu Zhuang has become the "West Lake's Premier Garden" and will be open to the public for free. After several renovations and expansions, its area has increased to 360,000 square meters, now serving as the site of the West Lake State Guesthouse! Inside, you'll find that Hangzhou's Liu Zhuang consists of nine buildings in a typical Chinese Jiangnan garden style, with small bridges, flowing water, and pavilions. There are south, central, and north entrances where cars can enter, with the reception desk located in Building Eight. The south gate is close to Leifeng Pagoda, while the north gate is near Lingyin Temple. Outside the garden, Yang Gong Causeway with its phoenix tree-lined boulevard elevates the entire garden to another level, showcasing the Jiangnan Chinese aesthetic of West Lake to visitors! First-time visitors have three ways to experience it: First, as a scenic spot. You can treat Hangzhou's Liu Zhuang as an attraction, appreciating its three sides facing the lake and one side against the mountain, with an exclusive 2-kilometer private lakefront. The distant views of Leifeng Sunset and Nanping Evening Bell create a stunning garden landscape! Second, as a hotel experience. Hangzhou's Liu Zhuang has 7 buildings, numbered 1-8 (excluding 4). Building 6 is for conferences and not for accommodation. Options include "Building 1 (Lakeside Villa)," "Building 2 (Ougen Thatched Cottage)," "Buildings 3/5 with quiet garden views," "Building 7 (Courtyard Rooms)," "Building 8 (New Chinese-style Courtyard)," and "Presidential Suite." Staying here, you can see the lake and mountains from your window, with morning mist, evening glow, and starry nights—like living in a painting throughout all four seasons. Third, as a historical exploration. The 360,000-square-meter Jiangnan garden was once home to private gardens like Liu Zhuang and Kang Zhuang. Historical sites such as Chairman Mao's reading place and Emperor Qianlong's calligraphy mystery are hidden within the garden, perfect for history enthusiasts. Transportation: Public transit: Take bus routes 194, 318C [weekday route], 318C [weekend and holiday route], 318 [weekday route], 318 [weekend and holiday route], West Lake Inner Ring, or West Lake Outer Ring to "Dingjia Mountain" station, then walk for 10 minutes. Driving: Navigate to "Hangzhou West Lake State Guesthouse·West Lake's Premier Garden-Ground Parking Lot." Practical information about Hangzhou's Liu Zhuang [West Lake State Guesthouse]: Admission is free, but reservations are required during holidays and special periods like magnolia viewing season. It's located at 18 Yang Gong Causeway, West Lake District, Hangzhou. Driving is recommended. So, are you interested in Hangzhou's Liu Zhuang [West Lake State Guesthouse]? Feel free to leave comments for discussion!

Hangzhou May Day Travel Guide • Attractions Recommendations: • West Lake: As Hangzhou's iconic attraction, West Lake's beautiful scenery during the May Day holiday is not to be missed. You can rent a shared bike or take an electric cart around the lake to enjoy famous sights such as Su Causeway, Broken Bridge, and Leifeng Pagoda, or take a rowing boat into the center of the lake to experience West Lake's charm from a water perspective. However, due to the crowds during May Day, it's recommended to visit in the morning to avoid peak hours and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of early morning. • Lingyin Temple: This thousand-year-old temple is hidden among the mountains, with incense wafting and Buddhist chants creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The Ji Gong Hall, Five Hundred Arhats Hall, and other sites within the temple are worth exploring in detail, and you can also get a blessing charm at the temple. It's recommended to book tickets in advance through official platforms and arrive before 6:30 AM to avoid lines. Wednesday mornings typically have fewer worshippers. • Songcheng: This is a large theme park centered around Song Dynasty culture, featuring the spectacular show "Songcheng Romance." Through lighting, special effects, and excellent performances, it vividly presents the history, culture, and social customs of the Song Dynasty, making visitors feel as if they've traveled back a thousand years. Additionally, Songcheng offers various characteristic buildings, food, and interactive activities. You can even rent Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) for an immersive experience. • Xixi Wetland: From April to May, the Flower Festival at Xixi is particularly beautiful, with rapeseed flowers, roses, and poppies blooming into a sea of flowers. You can take a rowing boat through the wetland to enjoy the natural scenery and rustic landscapes along the shore, experiencing the tranquility and beauty of nature. You'll also see water birds and reeds, experiencing a unique Jiangnan watertown atmosphere. • Liangzhu Ancient City Ruins: This site holds 5,000 years of civilization codes. Climb up to the Mojiao Mountain Palace ruins, visit the Liangzhu Museum, and appreciate precious artifacts like jade cong tubes and deity-beast face patterns to experience the charm of ancient civilization. It's recommended to arrive early in the morning to avoid afternoon student groups, and bring a picnic to enjoy at the Zhi Mountain viewing platform with the spring breeze. • Food Recommendations: • West Lake Vinegar Fish: Made with West Lake fish and seasoned with sugar, vinegar, and other ingredients, this dish features tender meat with a sweet and sour taste. It's a traditional Hangzhou specialty, but note that most restaurants don't make it well. Try it at Louwailou Gushan Restaurant. • Dongpo Pork: With its bright red color, this dish is fatty but not greasy and melts in your mouth. Named after Su Dongpo, it carries rich historical and cultural significance. The Dongpo Pork at Xiaodian Huang Shaoxing Restaurant is worth trying. • Longjing Shrimp: Made with tender West Lake Longjing tea leaves and fresh shrimp, this dish perfectly combines the fragrance of tea with the tenderness of shrimp for a refreshing taste unique to Hangzhou. • Dingsheng Cake: Shaped like a gold ingot with a soft, sweet taste, legend has it that ancient warriors who ate Dingsheng Cake would win battles, symbolizing good fortune. The Dingsheng Cake made by "Zhiweiguan" on Southern Song Imperial Street is particularly famous. • Pian'er Chuan: A Hangzhou specialty noodle dish topped with preserved vegetables, bamboo shoots, and meat slices. The soup is flavorful and the noodles are chewy. Kuiyuan Restaurant offers a good version of this dish. • Accommodation Recommendations: • Near West Lake: Options like Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake or Hangzhou West Lake State Guest House allow you to enjoy West Lake's beauty up close, though prices are relatively high. Nearby guesthouses are also good choices, offering a quiet environment with good value for money. • Near the Grand Canal: Areas such as around Wulin Gate or Xiaohe Straight Street feature design hotels that offer an immersive experience of old Hangzhou charm at moderate prices. These areas have many nearby food options and attractions, making travel convenient. • Transportation Guide: • Public Transportation: Hangzhou's subway system is convenient, with most city attractions accessible by metro. Line 1 directly reaches West Lake, City God Pavilion, Southern Song Imperial Street, and Hefang Street; Line 2 goes to West Lake and Liangzhu Cultural Village; Line 3 reaches Zhejiang Provincial Museum and Xixi National Wetland Park. Additionally, the bus network is well-developed for reaching various attractions. • Taxi or Self-driving: If you have a lot of luggage or are heading to more remote locations, taking a taxi is an option. For self-driving, note that the West Lake scenic area implements odd-even license plate restrictions. You can park at places like Huanglong Sports Center and then take shuttle buses. Personal Opinions • Advantages: Hangzhou is a city that combines natural beauty, historical culture, and modern charm. During the May Day holiday, Hangzhou's weather is pleasant, with flourishing flowers and trees making the scenery even more enchanting—perfect for travel. West Lake's free admission allows tourists to fully enjoy its beauty, while rich historical and cultural heritage sites like Lingyin Temple and Liangzhu Ancient City Ruins let visitors experience profound cultural depth. Additionally, Hangzhou offers numerous delicious foods, from traditional Hangzhou cuisine to various specialty snacks, satisfying all taste buds. • Disadvantages: The May Day holiday is a peak tourist season, and Hangzhou's popular attractions like West Lake and Lingyin Temple will be crowded, potentially affecting the travel experience with long wait times and difficulty taking satisfactory photos. Furthermore, during peak tourist season, prices for hotels and dining may increase, resulting in higher costs. Also, some attractions in Hangzhou are relatively far from each other, such as from West Lake to Liangzhu Ancient City Ruins, requiring significant travel time.

Hangzhou

| Chasing Dreams in a Jiangnan Painting Scroll. As the plane lands in misty Hangzhou, the humid scent of tea fills the air. This city, praised by Bai Juyi as "Heaven on Earth," weaves a thousand-year-old Jiangnan dream with West Lake's gentle waves, serene bamboo paths, and ancient temple chants. If you only have three days, keep this insider's guide handy to immerse yourself in poetic beauty every moment. ✨【Day 1: West Lake Dawn to Dusk, Encountering an Ink Painting Scroll】 At 5:30 AM, depart from Longxiang Bridge subway station and walk briskly along the empty North Mountain Road. When the first rays of sunlight pierce through the thin mist onto Su Causeway, the lake sparkles with golden ripples as the Broken Bridge stone monument awakens in the morning light. Rent a rowboat (💰80/hour), and the boatman will point to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon saying, "Look, that's the moon from the back of the one-yuan note!" At Flower Harbor Fish Viewing, red carp leap from the water, shattering the reflection of Leifeng Pagoda. In the afternoon, avoid the crowds by cycling along Yangong Causeway to discover West Lake's hidden treasures. Listen to the rustling of wind through lotus leaves at Qu Yuan Garden, and watch egrets glide over reed marshes at Mao Family Bay. At 6 PM, climb City God Pavilion (ticket 30 yuan) where the illuminated West Lake sparkles like scattered diamonds, with Baochu Pagoda and Leifeng Pagoda gazing at each other across the lake—truly "one lake reflecting twin pagodas, a thousand years of facing each other." 🍴Food recommendations: Lou Wai Lou (must try West Lake vinegar fish) | Zhi Wei Guan (deliciously sweet Dingsheng cake) | Dahua Restaurant (authentic Hangzhou cuisine) 🏨Accommodation recommendations: West Lake State Guest House (exclusive lakeside location) | Qingzhiwu Guesthouse Cluster (artistic and fresh) 📸Photo spots: Su Causeway for sunrise | Jixian Pavilion for water reflections | City God Pavilion for panoramic night views of West Lake ⚠️Tips to avoid pitfalls: Choose official boat docks | Look for established silk shops | Arrive early to secure spots for the West Lake Musical Fountain ✨【Day 2: Yunqi Bamboo Path, Traversing a Green Fairyland】 Arrive at Yunqi Bamboo Path at 9 AM (ticket 8 yuan), where bamboo groves stand like jade screens on both sides of the stone steps. Walking along moss-covered stone paths, you might encounter farmers carrying tea on shoulder poles amid cicada songs, suddenly understanding the meaning of "deep bamboo conceals ancient temples, quiet paths lead to zen hearts." Scoop clear spring water at Xixin Pavilion and watch light spots dance among bamboo shadows, as if you're in a scene from "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon." In the afternoon, cycle along Meiling South Road and taste freshly fried Longjing tea at Meiwu Tea Fields (💰50/person). On rainy days, the bamboo path becomes a misty fairyland—remember to wear non-slip shoes. In the evening, visit Hefang Street, where the aroma of scallion pancakes wafts under oil-paper umbrellas, and the medicinal scent from Hu Qing Yu Tang mingles with the lively atmosphere of Southern Song Imperial Street—this is the true flavor of old Hangzhou. ✨【Day 3: Lingyin Temple Blessings, Touching the Heartbeat of a Thousand Years】 Arrive at Lingyin Temple at 5 AM (ticket + Feilai Peak 75 yuan). Before the morning bell rings, incense already rises in wisps of blue smoke. Stand quietly before the Grand Hall, listening to Buddhist chants harmonizing with birdsong, and make a wish while holding an eighteen-bead bracelet. Turn right after leaving the temple to reach Yongfu Temple, where thousand-year-old ginkgo trees tell stories of zen among yellow walls and dark-tiled roofs. In the afternoon, ascend North Peak (cable car one-way 20 yuan), seek fortune at the God of Wealth Temple, and overlook Hangzhou city. As mountain winds brush past your ears, you'll suddenly understand Su Shi's praise: "Qiantang's mountains and waters are the best in the southeast." On your way down, visit Taoguang Temple, where two 800-year-old magnolia trees are in bloom, with petals fluttering like snow. 🍴Food recommendations: Lingyin Vegetarian Restaurant (excellent vegetarian noodles) | Shanwaishan Restaurant (beggar's chicken is exceptional) 📸Photo spots: Yellow walls of Lingyin Temple | Yongfu Temple's sutra copying hall | North Peak overlooking Hangzhou ⚠️Tips to avoid pitfalls: Don't buy incense at the entrance | Choose officially blessed eighteen-bead bracelets | Queue early for the cable car down I'm suddenly reminded of Zhang Dai's words in "West Lake Dream Search": "From Broken Bridge to Su Causeway, green mist and red fog spread over twenty li." If you've ever had a moment alone with this lake at dawn or dusk, please share your West Lake story in the comments!

Hangzhou 3 Days 2 Nights | Encounter the Poetry and Vibrancy of Jiangnan Hangzhou, a city that embodies both poetic charm and vibrant life, offers both the scenic beauty of West Lake and the diverse human experiences of ancient streets and alleys. If you only have a brief 3 days and 2 nights, follow this guide to immerse yourself in Hangzhou's unique allure. I. Itinerary Planning Day 1: West Lake Wandering, Encountering Thousand-Year Elegance - Morning: Begin your West Lake journey from "Broken Bridge Snow," stroll along Bai Causeway, appreciate the gentle beauty of "Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake," then visit Xiling Seal Society on Solitary Hill. If it's Monday, remember to avoid the Zhejiang Museum, which is closed. - Afternoon: Rent a shared bike and cycle along "Spring Dawn at Su Causeway," weaving between the six bridges and enjoying the pleasant breeze. Then head to "Fish Viewing at the Flower Harbor" to admire the colorful fish swimming in the red fish pond. In the early evening, climb "Leifeng Pagoda" for a panoramic view of West Lake, taking in all the scenic beauty. - Evening: Wait for a stunning West Lake sunset at Changqiao Park. After nightfall, head to the area near Hubin Intime Mall to watch the musical fountain shows at 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, experiencing the romance of light and music intertwined. Day 2: The Interweaving of Zen and Everyday Life - Morning: Visit the thousand-year-old "Lingyin Temple." First admire the stone carvings on "Flying Peak," then enter the temple to pray. Don't forget to taste an authentic vegetarian noodle bowl at "Shifang Yuan." - Afternoon: Hike to the "Three Temples of Tianzhu," starting from Faxi Temple, passing through Fajing Temple, and finally reaching Fajing Temple. Don't miss the popular photo spot at Faxi Temple, which is said to be especially effective for those seeking love. - Evening: Dive into "Dama Lane" or "Fifteen Kui Alley," where you'll find the most authentic Hangzhou snacks. Take a bite of a scallion pancake with cypress, try an oil cake, and chat with local aunties and uncles to experience Hangzhou's vibrant atmosphere. Day 3: Slow Time Among Tea Mountains and Old Streets - Morning: Visit "Longjing Village" and experience the joy of tea picking among the hillside tea plantations (best in spring), then taste a cup of pre-Qingming Longjing tea and enjoy its fragrance. Take a side trip to "Nine Creeks and Eighteen Gullies," hiking along the streams to enjoy the freshness and tranquility of nature. - Afternoon: Art lovers must visit "Xiaohe Straight Street," with its white walls and black-tiled buildings, artistic cafes and handcraft shops, and occasional lazy cats lounging around corners, making you feel like you're in an art film. - Evening: Take a night tour of "Gongchen Bridge" to see the dazzling lights on both sides of the Grand Canal and feel the historical charm of this ancient bridge. The historical district west of the bridge also has fan museums, knife and scissors museums, and more, where you can gain a deeper understanding of Hangzhou's traditional culture. II. Food Recommendations - Traditional Hangzhou Cuisine: - Fuyuan Restaurant: Their signature crispy intestines are crispy outside and tender inside, rich but not greasy—each bite brings pure happiness. - Hangzhou Restaurant: Their Dongpo Pork has a bright red color, soft texture, rich but not greasy, and melts in your mouth—definitely a blessing for meat lovers. - Zhiweiguan: A gathering place for Hangzhou's traditional snacks, including xiaolongbao, Dingsheng cake, and cat's ear noodles, each offering an authentic taste of Hangzhou. - Street Food: - Youbu Soy Milk: A breakfast favorite among Hangzhou locals—salty soy milk paired with fried dough sticks is deliciously savory and starts your day with energy. - Grandma Sun's Scallion Pancake with Cypress: Thin, crispy dough wrapped around fried dough sticks and scallions, brushed with a layer of sweet and spicy sauce—aromatic and unforgettable. - Xinfeng Snacks: A highly cost-effective snack shop with rich beef vermicelli soup and juicy shrimp xiaolongbao. - Popular Check-in Spots: - Tea Village Craftsman Hangzhou Cuisine: Their Longjing tea-flavored chicken is their signature dish—tender chicken with a subtle Longjing tea fragrance that leaves a lasting impression. - Sketch Restaurant: Located near Lingyin Temple with an artistic environment. Their durian roast chicken is a specialty—an unusual combination of durian and chicken with a unique taste worth trying. III. Accommodation Guide - West Lake Enthusiasts: If you want to open your window to the beautiful view of West Lake, choose West Lake State Guesthouse or Four Seasons Hotel West Lake. If your budget allows, definitely select a lake-view room for an intimate encounter with West Lake. - Art Lovers: Qingzhiwu Guesthouse Area and Manjuelong Mountain View Guesthouses are your best choices. Qingzhiwu is full of artistic atmosphere with many surrounding restaurants; Manjuelong's osmanthus fragrance in autumn is exceptional, immersing you in floral scents. - Budget Options: Chain hotels around Hubin/Wulin Square offer convenient transportation, shopping, and dining options at relatively affordable prices. IV. Transportation Tips - City Transportation: Hangzhou has traffic restrictions, so subway + bus + shared bikes is the best combination for getting around. The subway covers most attractions—download the "Hangzhou Metro" app for convenient travel. Buses accept coins or scan codes, and some routes offer scenic views. Around West Lake, shared bikes allow you to freely navigate streets and alleys. Taxis are convenient but may be congested during rush hours, so plan your time accordingly. - Transportation To and From Hangzhou: Choose flights, trains (Hangzhou East Station, Hangzhou Station, etc.), or long-distance buses to reach Hangzhou depending on your starting point. From Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, you can take a shuttle bus or Metro Line 19 directly to the city center. Both Hangzhou East Station and Hangzhou Station have direct subway connections, making them very convenient. V. Souvenir Selection - Tea: Pre-Qingming tea from Meijiawu and Longjing Village is of superior quality. Look for direct-from-farmer shops, taste before buying to ensure quality. - Pastries: Zhiweiguan's Dingsheng cake and Southern Song Dynasty Hu Ji's lotus pastries have exquisite shapes and soft textures, making them great gifts for friends and family. - Cultural Creative Products: Xiling Seal Society's stone carving peripherals are full of cultural heritage; graduation design works from China Academy of Art are creative and worth collecting. VI. Pitfall Avoidance Guide 1. West Lake Boats: Choose "oar boats" or "rowing boats" to better experience the charm of West Lake. Avoid large sightseeing boats for a better experience. 2. Buying Tea in Longjing Village: Don't buy randomly at the village entrance. Visit tea farmers' homes, taste the tea before deciding whether to buy. Be careful to identify tea quality and beware of "sky-high prices." 3. Shopping Warnings: Hefang Street is heavily commercialized, so shop carefully. For silk, tea, and other specialties, it's recommended to buy from official stores, as street vendors often overcharge. The beauty of Hangzhou is hidden in every corner and needs to be savored slowly. I hope this guide helps you have a wonderful journey in Hangzhou and create unforgettable memories.

📍Detailed Address: Hangzhou City (comprising 10 districts including Shangcheng, Gongshu, and West Lake), with main attractions concentrated in West Lake District, such as West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and Xixi Wetland. 🚗Transportation Guide: 1️⃣Arriving in Hangzhou: 👉By Air: Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport → 27km to downtown, airport shuttle bus costs 30 yuan/person. 👉By Train: Hangzhou East Station (high-speed rail)/Hangzhou Station (city station), Shanghai-Hangzhou high-speed rail takes only 38 minutes to Shanghai. 2️⃣Getting Around: 👉Subway: Lines 1/2/4 cover West Lake, Wulin Square, etc. Download "Hangzhou Metro" APP. 👉Taxi: Starting fare 13 yuan, shared bikes recommended for West Lake Scenic Area (1.5 yuan/30 minutes). 👉Self-driving: City ranks 6th nationally for traffic congestion, recommend subway+taxi combination. 🌟Must-Do Activities: 1. In-depth Tour of West Lake's Ten Scenes🌅 👉Classic Route: Broken Bridge → Bai Causeway → Solitary Hill → Leifeng Pagoda (40 yuan to climb for panoramic view) → Maojiabu (rowing boat 30 yuan/person) → Jixian Pavilion (best spot for "Leifeng Pagoda at Sunset"). 👉Hidden Experiences: Explore Guozhuang (Qing Dynasty garden with lakeside tea rooms), take hanfu photos at Yuhu Bay Corridor Bridge. 2. Lingyin Temple Blessing Route🏯 👉Itinerary: First visit Feilai Peak stone carvings (45 yuan) → Lingyin Temple incense ticket 30 yuan → Faxi Temple for popular amulets (Bus 108 connects all three temples). 3. Xixi Wetland Eco Tour🚣 👉Activities: Electric boat tour of "Autumn Reeds and Flying Snow" (80 yuan/person), helium balloon overlooking wetlands (180 yuan/person). 4. Song Dynasty Time Travel at Songcheng🎭 👉Activities: "Songcheng Romance" show (320 yuan including admission), wear hanfu to experience embroidered ball throwing/escort missions. 5. Longjing Village Tea Mountain Hiking🍵 👉Route: Longjing Village → Nine Creeks and Eighteen Gullies → Jiuxi Misty Trees (free), spring tea-picking experience (paid at tea farmers' homes). 6. Qiantang River Night Tour🌉 👉Activities: Night cruise to see light show (150 yuan/person), view tidal waves from City Balcony. 💰Average Costs: • Dining: 👉 West Lake Vinegar Fish 88 yuan/500g, Dongpo Pork 68 yuan, Zhiweiguan Xiaolongbao 25 yuan/basket. • Admission: 👉 West Lake free, Lingyin Temple 75 yuan (including Feilai Peak), Xixi Wetland 80 yuan, Songcheng 320 yuan. • Transportation: 👉 Subway starts at 2 yuan, taxi starts at 13 yuan. • Accommodation: 👉 Hotels near West Lake 400-800 yuan/night, Qingzhiwu guesthouses 200 yuan/night. 📌Tips: 1. Reservations: 👉 Book Zhejiang Museum 3 days in advance, closed Mondays; arrive at Lingyin Temple before 7am. 2. Transportation: 👉 West Lake Scenic Area has odd-even license plate restrictions on weekends, choose "West Lake Loop" bus lanes when taking taxis. 3. Footwear: 👉 Wear non-slip shoes! Leifeng Pagoda has 4 floors to climb, Lingyin Temple has many mountain steps. 4. Mosquito Protection: 👉 Mosquitoes abundant at West Lake and Prince Bay, bring repellent/wear long pants. 5. Food: 👉 Night market must-eats: Hefang Street Dingsheng Cake 5 yuan each, Longxiang Bridge scallion pancakes 10 yuan/pair. 6. Photography: 👉 Capture Leifeng Pagoda and Lake Heart Pavilion in one frame from the octagonal pavilion at West Lake State Guesthouse, shoot cherry blossoms with ancient architecture at Agate Temple.

"West Lake is more beautiful in the rain than on a sunny day." When the misty rain falls, West Lake transforms into a poetic ink painting, and it's the perfect time to take photos! Want to know how to take stunning photos of West Lake in the rain that will wow your friends? Follow this guide to elevate your photography skills!🌿 🏖️ Recommended Spots - Three Pools Mirroring the Moon: Capture the iconic view featured on the one-yuan banknote at the Heart-to-Heart Pavilion. With the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon and the lake surface as your backdrop, this spot is ideal for panoramic shots and close-ups. - Leifeng Pagoda: Take photos of Leifeng Pagoda near the Sakyamuni Hall of Jingci Temple, using the yellow walls as a background for a beautiful color contrast. You can also capture the sunset glow of Leifeng Pagoda from afar at Long Bridge Park, using the lines of the bridge for composition. - West Lake Scenery: The most beautiful corner is near the Xiling Bridge bus stop, where the road ends at the lake, creating a romantic setting, especially during sunset. Other great spots include the Guanghua Fudan sign opposite Gushan Park and the large Gushan sign straight ahead inside Zhongshan Park. - Flower Harbor: The stone bridge about 100 meters in front of the Lakeside Residence is perfect for capturing passing boats. Another great spot is the stone bridge 100 meters before Green Qi Bridge, where you can capture the golden light piercing through the bridge's arch. - Bai Causeway: The viewing platform 30 meters east of the lakeside platform in front of the West Lake Expo Museum offers a framed view of Leifeng Pagoda, its reflection in the lake, and the pink peach blossoms and green willows. Capture the Chenghuang Pavilion framed by pink and green foliage at the Beishan Street sign. The second bench after entering the back mountain road of Gushan offers a view of Baochu Pagoda, the colorful foliage, and mandarin ducks. ⏰ Recommended Times - 40 minutes after sunrise: The lingering morning mist creates a hazy, dreamlike atmosphere, perfect for capturing Su Causeway, Quyuan Fenghe, and other scenic spots, evoking the charm of ink painting. - 1 hour before sunset: The setting sun casts a golden glow on the scenery. Capture the "gilded wonderland" of pink peach blossoms and green willows on Bai Causeway, or the sunset glow of Leifeng Pagoda. 📷 Photography Tips - Composition: Experiment with different compositions, such as symmetrical composition and the rule of thirds. Use foreground elements like branches and flowers to add depth and storytelling to your photos. - Poses: Stand near the lake, showing your jawline, and gaze at the lake or into the distance. Drape a coat over your shoulders and shrug slightly. Lean against a tree by the lake and casually play with your hair. Sit on a bench, tilt your head slightly, and place your arms naturally on your legs. - Equipment and Settings: To capture the pink peach blossoms and green willows on Bai Causeway, use a camera with a focal length of 200mm or more, or a phone with 10X optical zoom. For Baochu Pagoda, use a 50mm focal length on your camera or 2X zoom on your phone. 🛍️ Clothing and Props - Clothing: Choose bright colors or contrasting outfits. Long dresses are particularly flattering. You can also wear a cheongsam, modern Chinese clothing, or a horse-face skirt to complement the scenery of West Lake. - Props: Bring props like hats, bags, fans, flowers, umbrellas, and cameras to add interest to your photos. 🚗 Transportation - Bus: Many bus routes reach the West Lake area, such as routes 1314 and Tourist Route 10. - Subway: Take Subway Line 1 to Longxiangqiao Station or Line 7 to Wushan Square Station, then walk to West Lake. - Taxi: Convenient and fast, but traffic jams are possible during peak tourist season. 🍱 Food Recommendations - Time-honored Restaurants: Try the West Lake Vinegar Fish at Lou Wai Lou, the Crab Roe Stuffed Orange at Zhiweiguan, and the Dongpo Pork at Hangzhou Restaurant. - Local Snacks: Try the Shrimp and Eel Noodles at Kuiyuanguan, the Tomato-based Noodles at Fang Laoda, and the Shrimp Xiaolongbao at Xinfeng Snacks. 🏠 Accommodation - Luxury: Consider the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake or the Hangzhou State Guest House for beautiful surroundings and excellent service. - Budget-friendly: Choose budget hotels or homestays near Hubin Yintai for convenient access to transportation, shopping, and dining. 💡 Tips - West Lake is a large scenic area. Plan your itinerary based on your physical condition and available time. - If you choose to take a boat, pay attention to the boat schedule and pier locations. - Book hotels and restaurants in advance during peak season to avoid delays.

Hangzhou is a renowned tourist destination in China, famous for its picturesque scenery and rich history. Below is a detailed Hangzhou travel guide, covering attractions, snacks, accommodation, and budget. Recommended Attractions West Lake is Hangzhou's most famous attraction, known as "Paradise on Earth". The Ten Scenes of West Lake include the Broken Bridge, Leifeng Pagoda at Sunset, and Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, each offering unique beauty in different seasons. Renting a bicycle for a ride around the lake or taking a boat tour for a closer look at the scenery is recommended. Most of the West Lake scenic area is free, while some attractions, such as Leifeng Pagoda, require tickets (around ¥40). Lingyin Temple is Hangzhou's oldest Buddhist temple, located at the foot of Feilai Peak. The temple boasts a serene environment, towering ancient trees, and flourishing incense. The entrance fee is ¥45, including access to the Feilai Peak scenic area. Xixi National Wetland Park is famous for its natural ecology and idyllic scenery. Take a traditional Chinese-style boat ride through the waterways and experience the tranquility of a Jiangnan water town. The entrance fee is ¥80, with boat tickets sold separately. Song Dynasty Town is a large-scale theme park centered around Song Dynasty culture, offering various performances and interactive experiences. The entrance fee is ¥310, including the "Romance of Song Dynasty" show. Local Snacks Hangzhou cuisine belongs to Zhejiang cuisine, known for its light and fresh flavors. West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy is a signature dish, made with grass carp and featuring a sweet and sour taste. Lou Wai Lou and Zhi Wei Guan are time-honored restaurants serving authentic Hangzhou cuisine, with an average cost of ¥100-150 per person. Cong Bao Hui is a traditional Hangzhou snack consisting of a thin pancake wrapped around a fried dough stick and scallions. It's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, priced at about ¥5 each. Dingsheng Cake is a glutinous rice cake symbolizing good luck, with a soft, sweet, and fragrant taste, costing around ¥10 per serving. Pian Er Chuan is a Hangzhou specialty noodle dish topped with pickled mustard greens, bamboo shoots, and shredded pork in a savory broth. A bowl costs about ¥20. Cat Ear Noodles are shaped like cat ears and served with various toppings, priced at ¥15-20 per bowl. Accommodation Recommendations The area around West Lake is a popular choice for accommodation, offering convenient access to attractions. Five-star hotels like the West Lake State Guesthouse and Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake cost around ¥1000-2000 per night. Mid-range options like JI Hotel and Home Inn Selected cost around ¥300-600 per night. Budget travelers can opt for hostels, with beds priced at ¥50-100 per night. The area around Hefang Street also offers many characteristic inns and guesthouses, priced at ¥200-500 per night, allowing visitors to experience the charm of old Hangzhou while being close to the food street. Budget Transportation: Hangzhou has a well-developed subway and bus system, with daily transportation costs around ¥20. The starting fare for taxis is ¥11. Entrance Fees: Tickets for major attractions cost around ¥200-400, depending on the specific locations visited. Food: Snacks and street food cost around ¥50-100 per day, while formal meals cost about ¥100-150 per person. Accommodation: Budget options are around ¥200 per night, mid-range around ¥400 per night, and high-end options over ¥1000. Total: A 3-day, 2-night trip costs about ¥1000-2000 per person, depending on individual spending habits. Hangzhou is suitable for travel year-round, with spring and autumn being the best seasons. It's advisable to avoid peak travel times like National Day and Labor Day holidays for a better experience. Booking accommodation and tickets in advance can save time and money.

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 A must visit in Hangzhou! West Lake's beautiful check-in guide + secret ways to play Super practical guide 📖 📍 Address: Xihu District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. The entire West Lake Scenic Area is vast, and the core attractions are distributed along the lake, so there is no need to worry about getting lost! 🕙 Business hours: Open all year round, open 24 hours a day ~ The most important thing is that admission is free! It's so nice to enjoy the beautiful scenery of lakes and mountains without spending a penny🤩 🚇 Transportation Guide: Take Metro Line 1 to Fengqi Road Station and transfer to the bus directly; or take Metro Line 3 to Songmuchang Hexi Station and walk out of the station to arrive. If you drive, there are many parking lots nearby, but parking spaces are tight during weekends, so it is recommended to leave early! 📸 Must-visit attractions ✅ Broken Bridge with Snow: A classic scene in "The Legend of White Snake". It is as beautiful as a fairyland after the snow in winter ❄️. You can also take pictures of the beautiful lake view at other times. Any shot taken while standing on the bridge will be a blockbuster! ✅ Leifeng Pagoda: Climb to the top of the tower to overlook the panoramic view of West Lake. When the sun sets, the scenery of "Leifeng Sunset" is breathtaking! Tickets are 40 yuan, and it is more convenient to book online. ✅ The Moon Mirrored in the Three Pools: The same beautiful scenery on the back of the RMB one-yuan banknote! You need to take a cruise ship 🚢 to get to the island, the boat ticket + entrance fee is 75 yuan, and it is super worth it to see the "Three Towers Standing" with your own eyes! ✅ Yanggong Causeway, Su Causeway: Rent a bicycle 🚲 and ride along the lake, enjoying the breeze and the panoramic view of the scenery on both sides. It is so comfortable that you don’t want to leave~ Real reviews 💕 The beauty of West Lake is truly well-deserved! The scenery of each season is different. In spring, there are willows and painted bridges, in summer, lotus flowers are shining in the sun, in autumn, golden osmanthus is fragrant, and in winter, it is covered with snow. Every time you come here, you can get full of surprises. Stroll along the lake, feel the breeze from the lake, and appreciate the distant mountains and nearby waters. Your heart will be healed~ Take a cruise and listen to the boatman telling the legendary stories of White Snake, Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai. It feels like traveling through time and space and having a conversation with thousands of years of history. The only small drawback is that there are many tourists during the peak tourist season, so it is recommended to avoid weekends or go out early. In short, West Lake is definitely a must-visit attraction in your lifetime. Come and invite your friends and family to experience the romance of this paradise on earth~🥳

#Mainland Travel My mother-in-law likes this place so I decided to book it this time. Stay in the lake view room in Building No. 1, with a balcony facing Leifeng Pagoda. You can row a boat to the "Three Pools Mirroring the Moon" from the private pier to avoid the crowds of tourist boats. The breakfast slices are freshly cooked and topped with lard for a fragrant aroma. Disadvantages: You need to walk to the exit of Yanggongdi to take a taxi. It is recommended to rent a hotel bicycle.