Hangzhou , China

Hangzhou West Lake Walking Day Tour

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About this experience

There are many lakes named "West Lake" in China, but the "West Lake" here in Hangzhou is considered the most beautiful among all and listed as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. It is surrounded by hills on its three sides, with an area of about 6.5 square kilometers making it a beautiful and convenient destination from the city for 1 day. West Lake is the centerpiece of this experience and we will take you to witness the top 10 views of the lake throughout the day.

Available options

Private Tour

This is a private tour for your family or your friends exclusively.

What's included

Professional English-speaking guide

Bottled water

Hotel and railway station pickup and drop-off in Hangzhou downtown

What you'll see

Pick you up at your hotel in Hangzhou at around 9am to begin your one day walking tour of West Lake. The West Lake is a freshwater lake and divided by the Bai Causeway, Su Causeway and Yánggōng Causeway and dotted with numerous temples, pagodas, gardens, and man-made islands.

We will start our one day walking tour from Broken Bridge which is a very famous spot in West Lake Scenic Area. Walk across the bridge and step onto the Bai Causeway. The Bai Causeway is a 0.62 mile long embankment with plum trees and weeping willows planted on both sides, which makes it especially nice scenery in the spring. This causeway travels northward and starts at the "broken bridge", traveling through the "golden ribbon bridge" and ends at the "autumn moon on a calm lake" to make it a very interesting journey.

Continue our walking, we will get to Quyuan Park (Crooked Courtyard). The park boasts the biggest natural water supply into the West Lake and a wide range of lotus plants of various species.While in furious blossom, the lotus flowers show off reds, golds and whites in different figures and forms. Broad leaves spread leisurely on the limpid lake waters and low bridges zigzag among flowers. Such a view makes visitors forget themselves.

The crooked courtyard links with the Yuehu Lake by Su Causeway on the east and leads to Guos' Estate on the south. We will continue walking south to the Su Causeway. There are six arched stone bridges spanning the lake: Ripples Reflection Bridge, Locking Waves Bridge, Viewing Hill Bridge, Suppressing Dike Bridge, Eastern Lakeside Bridge, and Crossing Rainbow Bridge. Enjoying a well-known reputation of the main scene of the Ten Scenes in West Lake, Spring Dawn at Su Causeway is a must-see for visitors to explore the grace of West Lake and enjoy the romantic Hangzhou travel.

Adjacent to Su Causeway is the Flower Harbor (Huagang) Park which has a pool of beautiful colored fish. The best time to visit is late spring to early summer when the park is full of blossoms. "Viewing Fish at Flower Harbor" is also one of the top ten West Lake Scenes.

Leifeng Pagoda, on the Evening Glow Hill is also situated on the southern shore of the West Lake. Regarded as one of the top ten West Lake Scenes, "Leifeng Pagoda in Evening Glow"refers to the beautiful scene of the pagoda bathed in the evening glow at sunset.

Walking through the Long Bridge, our west lake walking tour will end at a lakeside park - "Orioles Singing in the Willows" which is also one of top ten West Lake Scenes. With its luxuriant trees along the winding bank, the park attracts birds flapping by.

Return to your hotel after the tour.

What's not included

Optional activities

Personal expense

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 3.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Please provide round-trip train itinerary in "special requirement" block if pickup from Hangzhou Train Station is required

Important notes

• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• TRAVEL TIP: Tips are recommended. It is useful to carry small notes with you at all times. If you are unsure who, or how much to tip, please do not hesitate to ask your tour guide for guidance

About Hangzhou

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It's home to the iconic West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers a blend of historical landmarks, modern attractions, and serene landscapes.

Top Attractions

West Lake

West Lake is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most famous attraction in Hangzhou. This picturesque lake is surrounded by scenic gardens, temples, and pagodas, offering a serene escape from the city.

Nature Half day to full day Free to enter the lake area, but individual attractions may have entrance fees (¥30-¥100)

Lingyin Temple

Lingyin Temple is one of the largest and wealthiest Buddhist temples in China, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is renowned for its ancient architecture, Buddhist artifacts, and serene atmosphere.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours ¥30

Hefang Street

Hefang Street is a bustling pedestrian street lined with traditional buildings, shops, and restaurants. It offers a glimpse into Hangzhou's rich history and is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local snacks.

Cultural/Shopping 1-2 hours Free to enter, but budget for shopping and snacks

Xixi Wetland Park

Xixi Wetland Park is a unique urban wetland park that offers a serene escape from the city. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and visitors can explore the park by boat or on foot.

Nature Half day ¥100 (including boat tour)

Hangzhou Botanical Garden

The Hangzhou Botanical Garden is a vast and beautifully landscaped garden that showcases a wide variety of plants and flowers. It is a peaceful and scenic spot to relax and enjoy nature.

Nature 1-2 hours ¥30

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dongpo Pork

A braised pork belly dish that is tender, succulent, and slightly sweet. It is named after the famous Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo, who is said to have created the dish.

Main dish Contains pork

Beggar's Chicken

A dish made with a whole chicken wrapped in clay and baked, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful meat inside. The legend goes that a beggar wrapped a stolen chicken in clay to hide it from his pursuers, and the resulting dish was so delicious that it became a local specialty.

Main dish Contains chicken

West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy

A dish made with fresh river fish, cooked in a tangy vinegar-based sauce. The dish is named after the famous West Lake in Hangzhou and is known for its delicate flavors and tender fish.

Main dish Contains fish, may contain gluten

Bamboo Shoot Dishes

Hangzhou is famous for its bamboo shoots, which are used in a variety of dishes. They can be stir-fried, braised, or steamed, and are often served as a side dish or incorporated into other dishes.

Side dish Vegetarian, may contain gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Boat tours Kayaking Tea tasting Spas and wellness centers Parks and gardens Cultural performances

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is vibrant with blooming flowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hangzhou is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a well-developed tourism infrastructure. However, as with any destination, it is essential to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use metered taxis or ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging
• Bargain for better prices in markets and street stalls

Getting there

By air

Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport • 26 km from city center

By train

Hangzhou East Railway Station, Hangzhou Railway Station

By bus

Hangzhou Bus Terminal, East Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Hangzhou Metro is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of multiple lines that connect key points in the city. Signs are in both Chinese and English.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Qinghefang Ancient Street Binjiang District Xiacheng District Gongshu District

Day trips

Xitang Ancient Water Town

120 km from Hangzhou • Full day

Xitang is a picturesque ancient water town known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, canals, and bridges. It is often compared to Venice for its charming waterways and historic buildings.

Wuzhen Ancient Water Town

140 km from Hangzhou • Full day

Wuzhen is another well-preserved ancient water town, known for its traditional architecture, canals, and bridges. It is less touristy than Xitang and offers a more authentic experience.

Tianmu Mountain

90 km from Hangzhou • Full day

Tianmu Mountain is a scenic area known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Festivals

West Lake International Music Festival • September Hangzhou Tea and Culture Festival • March Qingming Festival • Early April

Pro tips

Visit West Lake early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
Explore the ancient water towns of Xitang and Wuzhen for a unique and authentic experience
Sample local snacks and street food at the night markets, such as Hefang Street and Wulin Square
Take a tea plantation tour to learn about the history and culture of tea in Hangzhou
Experience a traditional Chinese medicine treatment or massage for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience