[Hangzhou Jiuyaoge Hidden Hiking Guide]

- Santai Mountain > Yuhu Bay > Taiziwan > Jiuyaoge, a 5 km route offering panoramic views of West Lake in 2-3 hours!

Route Overview
Starting Point: Santai Mountain (navigate to "Santai Mountain" or "Santai Mountain Road")
Via: Yuhu Bay, Taiziwan Park
End Point: Jiuyaoge (best spot for West Lake panorama)
Total Distance: about 5 km | Duration: 2-3 hours (including sightseeing)
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Beginner-friendly, suitable for families/seniors

Detailed Route
1️⃣ Starting from Santai Mountain

Follow the mountain steps or gentle slope uphill, surrounded by green shade and fresh air.

Summit view: First glimpse of West Lake panorama, Leifeng Pagoda and Santai Mountain in view, recommended 10-minute photo stop.

2️⃣ Heading to Yuhu Bay

Follow signs downhill to Yuhu Bay, where the mirror-like lake surface and Jihong Bridge create a perfect Jiangnan watertown atmosphere.

3️⃣ Through Taiziwan Park

Walk along the lake to Taiziwan Park, famous for spring cherry blossoms and autumn red leaves, currently in tulip season (March).

Tip: Visit the Zhang Taiyan Memorial Hall en route for some cultural experience.

4️⃣ Climbing to Jiuyaoge

Take the walking trail from Tingtao Residence/Shicui Pavilion in Taiziwan, reaching Jiuyaoge in 15-20 minutes.

Must-take photos at observation deck: 360° view of West Lake's "Two Causeways Three Islands," Leifeng Pagoda and City God Pavilion in one frame, plus Qiantang River views.

Practical Information

Best Time: Spring and fall (March-May/September-November), avoid weekend crowds; sunrise/sunset views are best in early morning or evening.

Transportation:

Bus: Take Bus 4 or 808 to "Su Causeway" station, walk to Taiziwan Park.

Driving: Navigate to "Santai Mountain Road," parking lot nearby.

Admission: Free (Jiuyaoge teahouse charges fees, observation deck is free).

Equipment: Non-slip shoes, light backpack, drinking water (prices are higher at the summit).

Highlights
✅ Santai Mountain: Elevated views of West Lake's mountain ranges.
✅ Yuhu Bay: Jihong Bridge + serene lake views, cinematic shots everywhere.
✅ Taiziwan Park: Hangzhou's best flower viewing spot, featuring cherry blossoms/tulips/red leaves in different seasons.
✅ Jiuyaoge: Hidden gem for West Lake views, unbeatable 45° panoramic shots.

Additional Tips

Family Activities: Collect pine cones and acorns along the way, family rooms available at Jiuyaoge teahouse.

Descent Route: Recommended via Jingci Temple for plum blossoms (fall/winter) or Nanping Mountain trail for sunset views.

Hidden Feature: Jiuyao Mountain cliff carvings (Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period relics), requires careful searching.

💡Tip: If time allows, extend your trip to Nanshan Road for food, finish with water shield soup and victory cake! 🌿✨