"Heaven above, Suzhou and Hangzhou below." Hangzhou West Lake is China's most famous lake and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Su Dongpo said "I would compare West Lake to Xi Shi, always charming whether light or heavy makeup"—West Lake is like the beauty Xi Shi, beautiful on sunny or rainy days.
The best thing about West Lake is walking around it. The lake is about 15km around, takes most of a day to walk—you can also rent a bike or take a boat. Along the way are many sights: Broken Bridge—where White Snake and Xu Xian met; Leifeng Pagoda—where White Snake was imprisoned; Su Causeway—built by Su Dongpo; Three Pools Mirroring the Moon—the island on the back of the 1 RMB bill.
West Lake is beautiful in all four seasons. Spring: willows sprout, peach blossoms bloom. Summer: lotus flowers cover the lake. Autumn: osmanthus fragrance. Winter: when it snows, "Lingering Snow on Broken Bridge" is one of the Ten Scenes of West Lake. No matter when you come, West Lake has a different beauty.
After visiting West Lake, go to nearby Lingyin Temple—the most famous temple in Hangzhou, where Ji Gong became a monk. Or go to Hefang Street for street food—West Lake vinegar fish, Dongpo pork, Longjing shrimp, all famous Hangzhou dishes. Hangzhou's Longjing tea is also famous—you can go to Longjing Village to drink tea.
West Lake is right in downtown Hangzhou, very convenient. Take Metro Line 1 to Longxiangqiao Station, a few steps to the lake. We recommend planning a full day, take your time, don't rush. West Lake is the kind of place the more you wander, the more beautiful it feels—you can't rush it.
