Hangzhou – Beauty by the Lake

Hangzhou is one of my favourite cities in all of China. It’s a beautiful place full of great things to see, and the people there are so friendly.

Some of the best spots in Hangzhou centre around West Lake. This is where I spent most of my short time in the city, and so the places I feature here are all within walking distance of the lake.

West Lake

West Lake is the centrepiece of Hangzhou. This beautiful lake is surrounded by rolling hills and features many pagodas, pavilions, bridges and islands. The lake even featured on the Chinese 1 yuan banknote. On a trip to the city it would be a shame not to visit the lake.

The lake can be enjoyed during the day and at night. With so much to see around the lake, I have focused on the key places I think are most worth visiting. These are Leifeng Pagoda, Jixian Pavilion and Jindai Bridge.

If you get tired of walking around the lake, there is also the option to cruise around on a dragon-shaped boat.

Watching the sunset across the lake is a beautiful way to spend the evening.

At night the lake is even more lively, with the Water and Light Show and the surrounding temples lit up. People come out to sing and dance on the shores of the lake.

Leifeng Pagoda

Leifeng Pagoda sits on the south side of West Lake. This pagoda is five stories tall and was originally built in 975. It collapsed in 1924, but it was rebuilt in 2002. Some of the original stones can still be seen under the pagoda.

Just as the people of 10^th century China intended, the pagoda can now be reached by escalator.

It’s definitely worth making your way to the top of the pagoda for stunning views across West Lake.

Jixian Pavilion

On the east side of West Lake, you’ll find the Jixian Pavilion. This is a small pavilion at the end of a walkway that extends out into the lake. This iconic structure sits upon the calm waters and has become something of a photographer magnet. The pavilion looks great at all times of day and has been captured upon the backdrop of the setting sun.

I visited at night when the pavilion was lit up, the lights reflecting in the waters of the lake.

Jindai Bridge

The Jindai Bridge crosses the northern part of West Lake. Besides another place to see a great view of the lake and the surroundings, Jindai Bridge is a perfect spot to watch the sunset.

From here you’ll get a perfect view of the sun going down, the dimming light reflecting on the water as the sun sinks below the western mountains.

tea Fields

Further west of West Lake are the rolling hills leading into the mountains. Head up any of the multiple paths (roughly aim for a spot on the map called “Inquiring About Tea at Dragon Well”) and you’ll find yourself among amazing tea fields.

You can walk through the fields that appear to go on forever. Sit down anywhere to admire the views from here. It’s incredible, and incredibly peaceful.

There are also some restaurants in the hills where you can get lunch or dinner. Just be wary about scam teahouses where you can be charged exorbitant amounts for some tea.

West Lake Water and Light Show

As previously mentioned, West Lake is lively at night. Head over to the east side between 7pm and 8pm (check local websites for the exact time) to see this dazzling show of illuminated dancing water, all to the beat of some recognisable music.

Qinghefang Street

Qinghefang Street is one of the only well preserved parts of the ancient city. This street is like stepping back in time through Hangzhou’s history to the Ming Dynasty. The 460m street is not too far from West Lake, on the east side.

On this street you’ll find many souvenir shops and places selling food. Stroll along and sample some of the local treats!