⸻ 🌅 West Lake One-Day Itinerary: A Poetic Escape in Hangzhou

⏰ 9:00 AM — Start at Broken Bridge (断桥残雪)

Why: One of the most iconic and romantic spots of West Lake, especially if you know the Legend of the White Snake (白蛇传).
What to Do:
• Take in the panoramic lake view with Leifeng Pagoda in the distance.
• Snap that classic photo on the bridge with willow trees lining the path.

Pro Tip: Come early to avoid the crowds. Mornings offer beautiful light for photography.

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🛶 10:00 AM — Boat Ride on West Lake (西湖游船)

Where to board: Near Broken Bridge or at Huagang Pier (花港码头)
Types: You can choose a hand-rowed wooden boat for a quiet ride or an electric boat for convenience.
Highlights:
• Pass by the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (三潭印月) — it’s the image on the back of the 1 RMB bill!
• Enjoy stunning views of Su Causeway (苏堤) and surrounding lotus ponds.

Tip: Try to negotiate a short ride (~45 minutes) to get a feel for the lake without getting too tired.

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☕️ 11:30 AM — Coffee or Tea Break at SeeSaw Coffee (湖滨银泰in77)

Why: Trendy local spot with West Lake views and great ambiance.
Option: If you prefer something more traditional, try Zhi Wei Guan (知味观) for their tea and dim sum snacks.

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🏯 12:30 PM — Visit Leifeng Pagoda (雷峰塔)

How to Get There: Short walk from the southern side of the lake or boat drop-off.
What’s Cool:
• Take the escalator up (yes, there is one!) and enjoy panoramic views of the lake and Hangzhou city.
• Learn about the legends and see ancient relics beneath the modern structure.

Photo Tip: The best views of the lake are from the upper levels!

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🍴 2:00 PM — Lunch at Lou Wai Lou (楼外楼)

Address: Gushan Road, near West Lake
Famous Dishes:
• West Lake Vinegar Fish (西湖醋鱼) – sweet, sour, and silky smooth.
• Beggar’s Chicken (叫花鸡) – wrapped in lotus leaves and clay, super flavorful.
• Longjing Shrimp (龙井虾仁) – sautéed shrimp with Hangzhou’s famous green tea.

Tip: It’s popular, so go a bit later to avoid the lunch rush.

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🌳 3:30 PM — Leisure Walk along Su Causeway (苏堤春晓)

Why: A 2.8 km scenic stretch lined with willow trees, lotus ponds, and romantic bridges.
What to Do:
• Stroll slowly, enjoy the breeze, take photos, or rent a bicycle for a gentle ride.
• Great spot to sit, read, sketch, or people-watch.

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🎨 5:00 PM — Visit China National Tea Museum (中国茶叶博物馆) or Longjing Village (龙井村)**

If you love tea, head to the Tea Museum – peaceful, with free entry and great insights into Chinese tea culture.
If you want more local flavor, hike up to Longjing Tea Village, sip fresh-brewed Longjing tea at a farm house, and enjoy the sunset over terraced hills.

Pro Tip: Don’t buy tea at tourist shops. Go for small family-run farms for authenticity and better prices.

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🌇 6:30 PM — Sunset at Yuhuang Feiyan (玉皇飞云观景点)

Location: South of West Lake, slight uphill climb.
Why: Less crowded than Leifeng Pagoda, and offers stunning golden hour lake views.
Bring: A light jacket and a camera — the reflection of the sun on the lake is magical.

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