A Complete Guide to West Lake Hangzhou: The Grand Scenic Jewel of China

Discovering West Lake China: The Enchanting Beauty of Lady Xishi

• Location: West Lake Scenic Area, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
• Operating Hours: Open all day
• Suggested Visit Duration: 3 to 6 hours
• Entrance Fee: Free of charge

West Lake Hangzhou is one of the most beautiful tourist spots in China, attracting millions of visitors each year. The lake has been immortalized in numerous literary works, poems, and paintings by ancient scholars and artists.

West Lake Hangzhou - A UNESCO World Heritage Site

West Lake in Hangzhou covers an area of approximately 6.4 square kilometers, with a perimeter of around 15 kilometers. The lake is divided into three sections by three embankments: the Bai Embankment, the Su Embankment, and the Yang Gong Embankment. It is further divided into five smaller lakes, including: the Rear West Lake, Li West Lake, Outer West Lake, Small South Lake, and Music Lake. Among these, the West Lake also features a significant reservoir, the Co Mountain Lake (approximately 200,000 square meters), and three small islands: Xiao Yangzhou, the Taming Island, and the Nguyen Gong Island. In 2011, West Lake Hangzhou was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The History of West Lake Hangzhou

During the reigns of Bao Li and Changqing, from 821 to 826, Bai Juyi moved to Hangzhou to serve as the governor. There, he oversaw the construction of two embankments around the lake to retain water and prevent droughts. Additionally, Bai Juyi proposed changes to the landscape surrounding the lake.

Two centuries later, during the Song Dynasty, the poet Su Dongpo was appointed as the governor of Hangzhou. At that time, Hangzhou was experiencing a severe drought. He ordered the dredging of the lake's bed, removing mud and debris to create a higher embankment. Subsequently, he continued to improve the landscape around the lake. This was the moment when the Su Embankment became one of the ten most beautiful sights of West Lake.

The History of West Lake Hangzhou

Guide to Traveling to West Lake - Hangzhou

To reach West Lake in Hangzhou, visitors can refer to the following travel guide:

Traveling to Hangzhou

Currently, traveling to Hangzhou is very convenient due to the frequent flights available. Some airlines operating flights to Hangzhou include: Air China, China Southern, Air Asia, Scoot, and more.

• Traveling from other provinces in China to Hangzhou:

Flight Information for Travel from Other Provinces in China to Hangzhou

Air Asia is one of the airlines that operates flights to Hangzhou

• Traveling from Vietnam to Hangzhou:

Flight Information for Traveling to Hangzhou from Vietnam

Xiaoshan Airport Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Currently, booking a flight to Hangzhou is quite straightforward. From Vietnam to Hangzhou, you have two flight options: direct flights or connecting flights. While direct flights tend to be more expensive, they save you a significant amount of time, allowing you to enjoy your trip to Hangzhou sooner.

Traveling to West Lake

West Lake Hangzhou is located approximately 30 kilometers from Xiaoshan Airport. You can choose from several transportation options to get there, including the following:

Information on Transportation to West Lake in Hangzhou

For first-time visitors to West Lake Hangzhou, you may consider taking a taxi for a quick and hassle-free journey, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area. If you're traveling with a group of 3-4 people, the cost can be quite economical. However, keep in mind that most drivers don't speak English. It's a good idea to provide the driver with the destination name in Chinese to ensure you reach the right location.

The Route from Xiaoshan Airport to West Lake Hangzhou

The Best Time to Visit West Lake Hangzhou

According to travel experiences in China, each season at West Lake has its unique charm. Therefore, visitors can come at any time of the year to enjoy the serene atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

Spring

Spring is the season when trees bloom and new life emerges, and West Lake Hangzhou is no exception. As spring arrives, the banks of the lake are lined with lush willow trees, their branches gently hanging over the water. Alongside them, vibrant flowers such as cherry blossoms, hibiscus, wisteria, and magnolias bloom in a dazzling display of color.

Summer

In the summer, a visit to West Lake offers the chance to enjoy the beauty of the Quyuan Lotus Pond. This pond, which has been cultivated since the reign of Emperor Kangxi (1662-1722), is now home to nearly 40 high-quality varieties of lotus, featuring large flowers in stunning colors.

Checking in at West Lake during the summer

Mùa thu

Du lịch Tây Hồ Hàng Châu vào mùa thu, bạn sẽ được ngắm khung cảnh trăng nước tuyệt đẹp. Mùa trăng ở Tây Hồ được nhiều du khách yêu thích bởi bạn sẽ được ngắm nhìn cả cảnh trăng tròn sáng đẹp trên trời và hình ảnh trăng lung linh dưới nước.

Mùa đông

Mùa đông ở Tây Hồ đẹp nhất mỗi khi tuyết rơi phủ trắng xóa. Nhìn hình ảnh cây cầu, những nhành cây vương tuyết tạo nên một khung cảnh đẹp mê hồn khiến nhiều du khách yêu thích.

Khung cảnh Tây Hồ mùa đông đẹp như trong tranh

Trải nghiệm hấp dẫn tại Tây Hồ Hàng Châu bạn không thể bỏ lỡ

Check in với toàn cảnh Tây Hồ rộng lớn

Du lịch Tây Hồ Hàng Châu với khung cảnh xinh đẹp, nên thơ chắc chắn bạn không thể bỏ qua những bức ảnh check in xinh đẹp. Không chỉ có hồ nước lung linh, ở Tây Hồ còn có rất nhiều phong cảnh để bạn có thể căn làm background như: ngôi đền, ngọn đồi, cây cầu hay những hàng cây xanh mát.

Tây Hồ mỗi mùa đều có một vẻ đẹp riêng, bạn cũng nên cân nhắc đến việc lựa chọn trang phục để có những bức ảnh check in đẹp nhất. Bên cạnh đó, một số góc đẹp ở Tây Hồ mà Mytour gợi ý bạn chụp đó là:

• Take a photo from the top of Lei Feng Pagoda with the Su Causeway and three small islands as the background.
• Capture a view from Baoshi Hill to get a full view of the bridge, Bai Causeway, and Hubin Road.

The Picturesque Natural Scenery of West Lake Hangzhou

Exploring the Lake Using Various Means of Transport

When you visit West Lake Hangzhou, you can explore the surrounding area in several ways, including the following:

• Walking or Cycling:

At West Lake, there are two routes that prohibit motor vehicles and are dedicated to pedestrians and cyclists: the Su Causeway and Bai Causeway. Therefore, when visiting West Lake, you can leisurely walk or cycle to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

• Boat Ride on the Lake:

Another way to enjoy the beauty of West Lake, China, is by taking a boat ride. You can choose from large painted boats, small rowboats, or even a self-paddled boat for exploration. Most boat docks offer trips to the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon for sightseeing, followed by a visit to the small islands to enjoy the peaceful view of temples.

Enjoying the Scenic Beauty of West Lake on a Boat

• Traveling by Electric Cart:

Another popular mode of transportation is the electric cart. The cart moves around the lake, passing by several famous scenic spots such as Su Causeway, Lei Feng Pagoda, and Broken Bridge. This option is especially suitable for tourists in large groups, families with children, or elderly visitors.

Discover Rare and Breathtaking Sceneries

Renowned as the "Number One Scenic Spot" in China, West Lake in Hangzhou is home to the "Ten Views of West Lake". These ten famous landmarks each feature a stone inscription written by Emperor Qianlong himself.

• Su Causeway Spring Dawn

Located on the west bank of West Lake, Su Causeway Spring Dawn is a garden bursting with vibrant flowers every spring: cherry blossoms, apricot flowers, orchids, lilies, and more. Here, visitors can enjoy flower viewing and listen to the melodies of birds. The area is also famous for its poems praising poets such as Li Bai, Duan Wenli, and Wang Anshi.

• Willow Shadows and Orioles

Next on the scenic list is a place with lush willows casting cool shadows by the lake. The view is at its best in the spring, when the willow branches sway in the breeze accompanied by the sweet chirping of birds.

• Flower Harbor Viewing Fish:

This is considered one of the most prominent scenic spots in the 'Ten Views of West Lake.' Flower Harbor Viewing Fish is located in the southern part of West Lake, surrounded by water on three sides and a mountain on the fourth. The garden is divided into five sections: the red koi pond, peony garden, flower harbor, grassy field, and dense forest.

The picturesque Flower Harbor Viewing Fish

• Kunshan Wind and River Pavilion:

Built during the Southern Song Dynasty, Kunshan Wind and River Pavilion has a history of over 800 years. It is renowned for its lotus blossoms every summer. The flowers bloom beautifully, and the fragrant scent of lotus fills the air, leaving many visitors in awe.

• Nam Bình Evening Bell:

Nam Bình Evening Bell refers to the sound of the evening bell from the Nam Bình Mountain. From the summit of Nam Bình, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of West Lake in Hangzhou. What makes this place special is that the temples here are adorned with walls and columns engraved with poems, couplets, and paintings.

• Autumn Moon over the West Lake:

Autumn Moon over the West Lake is an artificial crescent-shaped lake built during the Song Dynasty. Located to the west of West Lake in Hangzhou, the scene here is one of the Ten Views of West Lake. The area features willow trees gently hanging over the lake, and its clear water reflects the moonlight at night, creating a magical atmosphere.

• Leifeng Pagoda's Sunset:

At West Lake, there is the Lôi Phong mountain, which resembles a large fan and rises approximately 300 meters. The term 'Lôi Phong tịch chiếu' refers to the image of Lôi Phong mountain being reflected on the water's surface, creating a beautiful and picturesque scene.

On the Lôi Phong mountain stands the Lôi Phong Pagoda, which was built in the 10th century to honor Quan Thế Âm Bồ Tát. The pagoda reaches a height of 60 meters and consists of 7 tiers with 6 sides. Inside, the pagoda houses a statue of Buddha, a bronze bell, and lanterns.

The Lôi Phong Pagoda stands at a height of 60 meters

• Tam đàn ấn nguyệt

As the first scenic spot in the "Ten Scenic Views of West Lake", Tam Dan An Nguyet consists of two parts: Xiaoyingzho Island and three triangular towers. The three towers are designed with hollow centers, and their bridges feature five evenly spaced circular holes. When light shines on them, the towers create a stunning and unique light effect.

• The Broken Bridge Covered in Snow

The Broken Bridge Covered in Snow is a scenic spot tied to the famous legend of Bai Nuan and Xu Xian. The snow that collects on the Broken Bridge is considered one of the top ten most famous views of West Lake in China. This is the perfect place to enjoy the winter scenery of West Lake.

• Two Peaks Piercing the Clouds:

The last scenic view at West Lake, Hangzhou, is the Two Peaks Piercing the Clouds. These are the two peaks of Nan Feng and Bei Feng. The Nan Feng peak stands at 257 meters, while Bei Feng reaches a height of 314 meters. When enveloped in mist, only the tops of the peaks are visible, creating the appearance of two mountains reaching towards the sky. On clear days, the two peaks resemble imposing towers standing face to face.

Experience the impressive West Lake performance show

The final experience when visiting West Lake, Hangzhou, is undoubtedly witnessing the spectacular West Lake performance show. Directed by Zhang Yimou, the mastermind behind the opening ceremony of the 28th Beijing Olympics, the show combines modern sound and lighting with graceful actors and dancers. It successfully recreates epic legends from Hangzhou, such as the story of Xu Xian and Bai Suzhen, and the legendary romance between Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai.

The West Lake performance show is intricately staged

Details about the West Lake performance show:

• Location: No. 82 Beishan Road, West Lake District, Hangzhou (opposite Yue Temple)
• Ticket Prices:
• Regular Ticket: 350 CNY (Approx. 860,000 VND)
• VIP Ticket: 500 CNY (Approx. 1,700,000 VND)
• Area A Ticket: 2,000 CNY (Approx. 6,900,000 VND)
• Area B Ticket: 1,500 CNY (Approx. 5,200,000 VND)
• Area C Ticket: 1,000 CNY (Approx. 3,400,000 VND)
• Show Time: 19:30 (may change during winter or based on weather conditions)

What to eat when visiting West Lake?

Not only can you enjoy unique experiences, but visitors to West Lake, Hangzhou can also savor some of the region's most famous dishes. Here are a few that you should try:

• West Lake Vinegar Fish: This dish has a history dating back to the Song Dynasty, made with fresh fish steamed to retain its natural flavor. What makes it special is the dipping sauce made from red vinegar – a local specialty of Zhejiang.
• Dongpo Pork: Made from tender slices of pork belly, this dish undergoes a careful marinating and cooking process, resulting in a rich, glossy red dish with a flavorful sauce.
• Longjing Shrimp: This traditional Hangzhou dish combines shrimp and high-quality Longjing tea. The dish is perfect when the shrimp is tender and the tea's fragrant taste subtly blends into the dish, creating a delicate flavor profile.
• Hangzhou-Style Duck: The savory richness of this duck dish is what makes it so loved by tourists. The duck is stewed to perfection, with its golden-red color and tender meat making it unforgettable. This dish is a must-try when booking a 5-day, 4-night tour of China.
• Beggar's Chicken: A renowned dish in Hangzhou, Beggar's Chicken is known for its distinct aroma infused with lotus leaves, which gives the meat an unusual and delightful flavor when served.

Thịt đông pha là một trong những món ăn nức tiếng ở Hàng Châu

Nên ở đâu để tiện thăm quan Tây Hồ, Hàng Châu Trung Quốc?

Du lịch Hàng Châu Tây Hồ, bạn có thể lựa chọn một số khách sạn dưới đây để thuận tiện cho quá trình tham quan, tiết kiệm thời gian di chuyển:

Thông tin một số khách sạn gần Tây Hồ

Oakwood Residence Hangzhou 5*

Useful tips for visiting West Lake, Hangzhou

To have a complete trip to West Lake, Hangzhou and experience the most, make sure not to miss the following useful tips!

• Check the weather forecast before your trip. Typically, spring begins in January, summer starts in April, autumn arrives in July, and winter begins in October. Be sure to prepare your clothing accordingly.
• From April to September, Hangzhou experiences frequent rain, so don’t forget to pack an umbrella or raincoat.
• Choose hotels near West Lake Boulevard for easy access to sightseeing.
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement and great photos at the “Ten Scenic Spots of West Lake”.
• Make sure to fully charge your camera and phone to capture beautiful photos for check-ins.
• Consider booking a comprehensive China tour package with an itinerary that includes West Lake if you're not experienced in independent travel.

Travel Tips for West Lake, Hangzhou

The above provides basic information about West Lake, Hangzhou – one of the most popular destinations for both domestic and international tourists. If you ever have the chance to visit China, make sure to schedule a trip here to enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings!

Author: Phuong Thao

Image Source: Collected