West Lake One-Day Tour Complete Guide

Here is a detailed guide to West Lake Scenic Area:

Transportation Guide

- Public Transport: Longxiangqiao Station (Line 1) directly reaches Hubin area, while Fengqi Road Station (Lines 1/2) allows walking access to Bai Causeway. Buses like No.7 and 1314 can take you directly to Broken Bridge and Lingyin Temple.
- Driving: Odd-even license plate restrictions apply. Park at Huanglong Sports Center or Shannan Yin Parking Lot, then transfer to shuttle buses.

Must-Visit Attractions

- Classic Route: Start at Melting Snow at Broken Bridge, stroll along Bai Causeway to enjoy Autumn Moon over Calm Lake; cycle on Su Causeway to admire lake-mountain views; visit Leifeng Pagoda for panoramic West Lake views; take a boat to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (the "No.1 Scenic Spot"); end at Breeze-Ruffled Lotus at Quyuan Garden.
- In-Depth Experience: Hike through Nine Creeks Meandering Through Misty Forest for autumn colors; visit Dragon Well Tea Village to taste authentic Longjing tea; cycle along Yanggong Causeway for less-crowded scenery.

Boat Recommendations

- Hand-Rowed Boats: ~¥150/hour (negotiable), allows custom routes for "floating through a painting" experience.
- Painted Pleasure Boats: ~¥55/person, classic route to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon island while enjoying lake views.

Food Recommendations

- Louwailou Restaurant: Famous for West Lake Vinegar Fish and Dongpo Pork (higher prices, good for special occasions).
- Zhiweiguan: Century-old brand known for soup dumplings and cat-ear shaped pasta snacks.
- Congbao Hui: Traditional Hangzhou snack available at Hefang Street.

Accommodation Suggestions

- Lakeside: Hotels like Grand Hyatt Hangzhou offer lake-view rooms; Nanshan Road has artistic B&Bs.
- Lingyin Area: Quiet village inns near Lingyin Temple, like Ruoya Courtyard Resort.

Tips

- Rent bikes (¥300 Z-card deposit, 1st hour free) for flexible touring.
- Avoid weekend mornings - early/late hours offer better views with fewer crowds.
- Leifeng Pagoda night views are spectacular; pair with "Impression West Lake" show (book tickets early).