📅 Itinerary
Day 1: West Lake & Tea Culture
• Morning: Stroll or cycle around West Lake. Meander along Su Causeway, cross Bai Causeway, and visit scenic spots like the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, Broken Bridge, and Lotus in Quyuan Park. For the best light and fewer crowds, aim for early morning scenery .
• Late Morning: Climb Leifeng Pagoda to enjoy panoramic views of the lake and learn about its romantic folklore and preserved relics .
• Lunch: Dine lakeside at Lou Wai Lou, famed for West Lake Fish in Vinegar Sauce, Beggar’s Chicken, and Dongpo Pork .
• Afternoon: Head to Yunqi (Meijiawu) Tea Village to observe Longjing tea cultivation on terraced hills, enjoy a tea ceremony, and sample freshly roasted brews .
• Evening: Return to West Lake for sunset and board the night cruise of the famous “Impression West Lake” performance—a multimedia spectacle on the water directed by Zhang Yimou. Book tickets in advance .
Day 2: Temples, Heritage & Local Culture
• Morning: Explore Lingyin Temple and the adjacent Feilaifeng Peak, known for its ancient grotto carvings, serene setting, and spiritual ambiance .
• Lunch: Enjoy local flavors at a neighborhood spot—Grandma’s Kitchen or a tea-village eatery featuring classics like Dongpo Pork and Beggar’s Chicken .
• Afternoon: Visit Xixi National Wetland Park, China’s only national wetland in an urban area, offering waterways, traditional water villages, and lush habitat that reflects Hangzhou’s old-world Jiangnan life .
• Later: Wander through Hefang Street—a restored pedestrian area with local crafts, snacks, tea houses, and calligraphy shops that echo Hangzhou’s merchant past .
🏨 Accommodation
• Fuchun Resort: Upscale lakeside luxury in a picturesque garden setting .
• Sofitel Westlake Hangzhou: Elegant riverside hotel with spa, fine dining, and lake views .
• Hyatt Regency / Radisson Plaza: Comfortable mid‑range options with central location and quality service .
• Budget/Friendly: Mingtown Hangzhou International Youth Hostel, conveniently located near West Lake with good reviews for value .
📌 Tips
• Best seasons: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and scenic vibrance around West Lake and tea fields  .
• Early start: Head to West Lake early to avoid crowds and enjoy softer morning light. Leifeng Pagoda opens early—ideal for sunrise or morning calm.
• Transport: Hangzhou is well‑connected by metro and bike rentals—consider cycling around West Lake; taxis or public buses work well for Lingyin and Xixi Park .
• Local culture: Pack light layers, wear comfortable shoes for walking and uneven temple pathways. Bring water; tea and snacks are widely available.
