Quyuan Fenghe & Qing Teng Tea House

⚑ Quyuan Fenghe: 89 Beishan Street, Xihu, Hangzhou 310058
⚑ Qing Teng Tea House: 7 Zhaogong Di, Xihu, Hangzhou 310058

When the weather allows, take a boat ride on West Lake. Ask the boatman to pass through Quyuan Fenghe, the lakeside park where Chanel presented its Métiers d’art collection in 2024. Continue toward Zhaogong Causeway and get off near Qing Teng Tea House. The moment you step ashore, the surroundings feel as if you have entered the Song Dynasty. The tea house also serves simple meals along with tea.

Baoshi Mountain

⚑ 746V+CMR, Xihu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China 310025

From the large rocks near Baochu Pagoda on Baoshi Mountain, you get one of the most complete panoramic views of West Lake and its surrounding hills, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site known for its historic landscape and centuries-old harmony between nature and human design. If possible, climb shortly before sunrise. It is one of the most beautiful sunrises not only in Hangzhou, perhaps in all of China, and it is not difficult to reach. On your way down, follow the path toward Geling, where you will find Baopu Daoist Temple.

Duan Bridge

⚑ Beishan Street, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China, 310025

Also known as Duanqiao or “Broken Bridge,” this is a spot where you can enjoy one of the best views of inner West Lake. In winter, the snow melts on the sunny side of the bridge, while it remains piled up on the shady side, making it seem like the bridge is broken.

Wenjiashan Village

⚑ Wenjiashan Village: Xihu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China 310007

Hangzhou is well-known for Longjing tea (also known as Dragon Well tea), the famous green tea named after the eponymous hill. Hiking through Longjing’s tea fields is always worthwhile, but if you want the most open, serene view of terraced tea landscapes, Wenjiashan Village is the best choice. Less visited than Meijiawu and situated at a higher elevation, it offers a far more expansive perspective over the tea fields. Since it is a tea village, you will naturally find yourself drinking tea quite often. Locals like myself are very used to drinking green tea nearly every day, but make sure that your stomach is capable of handling green tea frequently.

• TIP While visiting this area, I highly recommend hiking Longjing Hill.

Gui Yu Shan Fang

⚑ 649J+J4C, Manjuelong Rd, Xihu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China 310007

Another essential experience in Hangzhou is Longjing tea infused with osmanthus, the city’s official flower. For those visiting in late September
or early October, enjoying this signature Hangzhou tea on the patio of Gui Yu Shan Fang will be the highlight of any visit. The restaurant, considered one of the best fine dining options in the city, also has a vegetarian menu available.

• TIP The rooftop of The Silk Lakehouse at the Shangri-La Hangzhou is also a great choice for Longjing tea infused with osmanthus. Enjoy afternoon tea with a full view of West Lake.

Wen’er Market

⚑ No. 493 Moganshan Road, West Lake District, Hangzhou, China 310012

Recently renovated into a clean, modern market, this is a great place to pick up groceries including fresh produce, seafood and meat. The market also features a shared-kitchen offering made-to-order food service. Home to excellent small restaurants, cafés and places to enjoy craft beer, Wen’er Market is a popular destination for locals and visitors.

• TIP At the market, check out Da Tong Hao for a fusion of Taiwanese and Chongqing flavors, while Hao Shi Tang is ideal for local Hangzhou dishes.