A Different Perspective on West Lake: A 3-Day, 2-Night Hiking and Sightseeing Itinerary in Hangzhou

Tired of the same old Hangzhou travel guides? Explore Hangzhou in a new way and see West Lake from a different perspective with this 3-day, 2-night hiking itinerary. Day 1: North Peak + Precious Stone Hill Morning Start at the North Peak cable car station next to Lingyin Temple (cable car: CNY 30, 40 mins on foot). At the top, you'll find the Temple of the God of Wealth—Lingshun Temple. Ring the bell at the temple (CNY 10) and enjoy panoramic views of West Lake and Xixi Wetlands from the viewing platform. Afternoon Hike the Baochu Pagoda trail on Precious Stone Hill (starting from Huanglong Cave, 1 hr to the top). Watch the sunset from Toad Peak (arrive before 18:00) and take in the stunning West Lake night view. 🏨 Accommodation Stay at a guesthouse in Qingzhiwu, near Zhejiang University and the Botanical Garden. Day 2: South Peak + Nine Lights Hill Morning Hike up South Peak from Shiwudong Cave on Manjuelong Road (1 hr). Enjoy breathtaking views of West Lake from the top. Descend via the tea plantation path, passing by Yanxia Cave. Afternoon Enter Nine Lights Hill from Taiziwan Park (steep steps, 1.5 hrs round trip). Near the summit, you'll find the Nine Lights Pavilion viewing platform with 180-degree views of West Lake. 🏨 Accommodation Stay at a guesthouse in Siyanjing, close to West Lake. Day 3: Jade Emperor Hill + Wu Hill Morning Ascend Jade Emperor Hill from the south gate (entry: CNY 10). Visit Zilai Cave and the Eight Diagrams Field. The Fuxing Observatory at the summit offers excellent views. On clear days, you can see Leifeng Pagoda, West Lake Cultural Square, and Banshan. Afternoon Walk from Hefang Street to Wu Hill. Visit the City God Pavilion at the top and enjoy overlooking West Lake (entry: CNY 30). See both Qiantang River and West Lake from Jianghu Huiguan Pavilion. Equipment Recommendations * Hiking shoes are essential (some sections are slippery). * Lightweight backpack for water (there are shops on the mountains, but they are expensive). * Sunscreen + hat (no shade at the summit). Things to Avoid 1️⃣ North Peak is crowded on weekends. Arrive before 08:00. 2️⃣ There are no lights on Precious Stone Hill at night. Descend before sunset. 3️⃣ Some sections of Nine Lights Hill are steep. 4️⃣ The parking lot at the south gate of Jade Emperor Hill is small. Taking a taxi is recommended. 5️⃣ The City God Pavilion on Wu Hill closes at 17:00. 6️⃣ There are unmarked trails on all mountains. Stick to the designated trails.