"Misty West Lake, a Poetic Scroll of Jiangnan Water Towns"

West Lake Scenic Area, located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, is one of China's most famous tourist destinations, renowned for its picturesque scenery and rich cultural heritage. Here's a travel guide to West Lake Scenic Area to help you better plan your trip. 1. Recommended Main Attractions 💗 West Lake Scenic Area is vast and boasts numerous attractions. Here are some must-see spots: Ten Scenic Spots of West Lake: Su Causeway Spring Dawn: Su Causeway is most beautiful in spring, with willows and peach blossoms in full bloom. Broken Bridge Residual Snow: After a winter snowfall, the Broken Bridge offers picturesque views. It's also where Xu Xian and Madame White Snake met in the Legend of the White Snake. Leifeng Pagoda Sunset Glow: Leifeng Pagoda is a landmark of West Lake. The sunset glow on the pagoda in the evening is magnificent. Three Pools Mirroring the Moon: This is the small Yingzhou Island in West Lake. There are three stone pagodas in the lake, and the moonlight reflecting on them at night is enchanting. Flower Harbor Viewing Fish: Featuring flowers, a harbor, and fish, it's perfect for strolling and sightseeing. - Orioles Singing in the Willows: Known for its willow trees and birdsong, it's especially pleasant in spring. - Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake: On autumn nights, the lake is calm and the moonlight is bright, making it ideal for moon gazing. - Twin Peaks Piercing the Clouds: The mountain peaks around West Lake look like a fairyland when shrouded in clouds and mist. - Evening Bell Ringing at Nanping Mountain: The Jingci Temple at the foot of Nanping Mountain has a melodious evening bell. - Lotus in the Breeze at Quyuan Garden: The lotus flowers are in full bloom in summer, creating a delightful scene. 2. Recommended Itineraries One-Day Itinerary: Morning: Broken Bridge Residual Snow → White Causeway → Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake → Solitary Hill → Su Causeway Spring Dawn → Flower Harbor Viewing Fish. - Afternoon: Leifeng Pagoda → Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (by boat) → Orioles Singing in the Willows → Hefang Street (dinner). Two-Day Itinerary: Day 1: Broken Bridge Residual Snow → White Causeway → Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake → Solitary Hill → Lotus in the Breeze at Quyuan Garden → Su Causeway Spring Dawn → Flower Harbor Viewing Fish → Leifeng Pagoda. Day 2: Lingyin Temple → Feilai Peak → Longjing Village (tea tasting) → Six Harmonies Pagoda → Hefang Street. 3. Transportation Bus: There are many bus routes around West Lake, providing easy access to various attractions. Shared Bikes: There are plenty of shared bikes around West Lake, making cycling a great option. Boat: West Lake cruise is the best way to visit the attractions on the lake, especially the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon. Walking: Many attractions within West Lake Scenic Area are close to each other, and walking allows you to better appreciate the scenery. 4. Food Recommendations West Lake Vinegar Fish: A traditional Hangzhou dish with tender fish in a sweet and sour sauce. Dongpo Pork: Braised pork named after Su Dongpo, fatty but not greasy. Longjing Shrimp: Shrimp cooked with Longjing tea, fragrant and refreshing. Pian Er Chuan: A Hangzhou specialty noodle dish with a delicious broth. Dingsheng Cake: A traditional Hangzhou pastry symbolizing good luck. 5. Accommodation Recommendations Around West Lake: Choose hotels or guesthouses near West Lake for convenient access to the scenic area. City Center: Areas like Wulin Square and Hubin Intime City offer convenient transportation, shopping, and dining options. 6. Important Notes Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit West Lake, with pleasant weather and the most beautiful scenery. Avoid Peak Seasons: There are more tourists during holidays and weekends, so it's recommended to travel during off-peak times. Sun and Rain Protection: Most activities in West Lake Scenic Area are outdoors, so bring sunscreen and an umbrella. I hope this guide helps you plan your trip to West Lake. Have a wonderful journey!