A Complete Guide to Hangzhou's West Lake with Routes and Photo Spots

"West Lake is as beautiful as Xi Zi (a famous beauty), whether lightly or heavily made up." The beauty of West Lake lies in its seasonal changes of lakes and mountains, a poetic scroll where culture and nature intertwine. When in Hangzhou, West Lake is a must-visit! 💁‍♀️Basic Information • Opening Hours: Open 24/7, beautiful in all seasons, best time to visit is March-May and September-November • Admission: Free, some attractions like Leifeng Pagoda require separate tickets • Transportation: ◦ Getting There: Take the Airport Bus "Wulin Gate Line" from Xiaoshan Airport to Hubin; from Hangzhou East Station, take Metro Line 1 to Longxiang Bridge Station (Exit C) to reach West Lake ◦ Getting Around: ◦ Electric Cart: Lake circuit 40 yuan/person, 8:30-17:00, stops on request ◦ Cycling: Recommended route: Bai Causeway→Su Causeway→Yangong Causeway, bike rentals available in Longjing Village ◦ Walking: Gushan trail for watching mandarin ducks, Jiuxi trail for forest scenery 🗺️Recommended Routes 1. West Lake Ten Views in One Day: Longxiang Bridge Station - Orioles Singing in the Willows - King Qian's Memorial Wharf - Three Pools Mirroring the Moon - Fish Viewing at the Flower Pond - Evening Bell at Nanping Hill - Leifeng Pagoda in Evening Glow - Spring Dawn at Su Causeway - Twin Peaks Piercing the Clouds - Lotus in the Breeze at Winding Garden - Yue Temple - Moon over the Peaceful Lake - Broken Bridge in Snow - Wulin Night Market. About 15,000-20,000 steps, takes 6-8 hours, offering an in-depth West Lake experience. 2. Easy Route: Longxiang Bridge Station - No.1 Park Wharf - Three Pools Mirroring the Moon - Fish Viewing at the Flower Pond - Jingci Temple - Leifeng Pagoda - Yue Temple - Broken Bridge - Wulin Night Market. This route mainly uses boats and sightseeing cars for a relaxed tour of key attractions. 📸Photo Spots 1. Gushan Road Corner (WE1314 Bus Stop): Beautiful phoenix tree shadows one hour before sunset. 2. Jingci Temple Shakyamuni Hall: Perfect framing spot for Leifeng Pagoda photos. 3. Jiuyao Mountain Viewing Platform: 20-minute climb for panoramic West Lake views. 🍱Food Recommendations 1. Lou Wai Lou: Must-try signature West Lake Vinegar Fish, tender fish meat. 2. Zhiweiguan: Traditional Hangzhou restaurant, don't miss the Tiaotou cake and Dingsheng cake. 3. Green Onion Stuffed Pancake: Local snack, "Grandma Sun's" on Hefang Street is authentic. 🏠Accommodation Suggestions 1. Luxury: Hangzhou Xishang Hupao 1934, Republican-era villa with private tea gardens. 2. Boutique: Simple Hostel, design-focused style with bamboo grove afternoon tea. 3. Value for Money: Ji Hotel (Hubin Branch), 5-minute walk to the Musical Fountain.