Insights
- The story behind the Three Pools Mirroring the MoonOn the southern side of West Lake, three small stone pagodas rise from the water like dark, graceful markers. Together with the nearby island of Xiaoyingzhou,…
- A Guide to the Hangzhou Art Museum and Contemporary ExhibitionsHangzhou’s cultural identity is closely associated with West Lake, classical gardens, ink painting, and the refined traditions of Jiangnan. Yet the city also…
- How to Visit the Tomb of Yue Fei and Yue Temple in HangzhouThe Tomb of Yue Fei and Yue Temple stand beside the northwestern shore of West Lake, where Hangzhou’s natural beauty meets one of China’s most enduring stories…
- The Best Places to See Autumn Colors in HangzhouHangzhou becomes especially atmospheric from late October through November, when cooler air settles over West Lake, plane trees turn gold, and the hills around…
- A Guide to Exploring Xixi National Wetland ParkWest of central Hangzhou, Xixi National Wetland Park offers a quieter landscape than the city’s famous lakeside promenade. Reeds, waterways, willow-lined…
- How To Find The Best Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings) In HangzhouHangzhou is famous for Longjing tea, West Lake scenery, temples, and refined regional cuisine. Soup dumplings are another rewarding part of the city’s food…
- The history of the Bai Causeway and its namesakeBai Causeway is one of the most recognizable paths beside Hangzhou’s West Lake. Lined with willow trees and seasonal flowers, it connects the eastern lakeshore…
- A practical guide to Hangzhou Zoo and its panda enclosureHangzhou Zoo offers a relaxed wildlife experience in the green hills south of central Hangzhou. The grounds are close to the West Lake landscape, yet the…
- How to Take a Round-Trip Ferry on West LakeA ferry ride on West Lake is one of the easiest ways to combine sightseeing with a short break from Hangzhou’s busy streets. The boats cross open water, pass…
- Best Parks in Hangzhou for a Relaxing StrollHangzhou is especially rewarding when explored at walking pace. The city’s parks combine calm water, flowering gardens, wooded hills, historic architecture,…