West Lake Summer Escape Guide

Folks! The West Lake in summer is breathtakingly beautiful 💘 You'll regret missing the spectacular view of endless lotus leaves stretching to the sky! Today I'm sharing my personal summer escape guide 👇 to help you explore West Lake effortlessly this summer~

🌅【Best Sunrise Viewing Times】
Recommended visiting before 7:00 or after 17:00~
Avoid peak heat and crowds
While enjoying stunning sunrises/sunsets
Every shot becomes a masterpiece!📸

🏞️【Must-Visit Top 4 Attractions】
1️⃣ Lotus in the Breeze at Crooked Courtyard
The ultimate summer lotus viewing spot!✨
📍: 18 Yanggongdi, West Lake District
⏰7-9am for fewer crowds and perfect light
Lotus-filled ponds resemble Monet's garden
Light-colored dresses photograph best
(PS: Don't forget mosquito repellent!)

2️⃣ Maojiabu
Locals' hidden gem!🍃
📍: Longjing Road, West Lake District
Every shot looks like "Little Kyoto"
Chance encounters with wild egrets
Perfect for hiking or boating

3️⃣ Leifeng Pagoda
The ultimate sunset spot!🌇
📍: 15 Nanshan Road, West Lake District
💰40 yuan ticket (reservation required)
Panoramic lake views from the top
Sunset glow on the water
Romance level: 100%💯

4️⃣ Jixian Pavilion
Hidden gem for photographing Leifeng Pagoda!🎋
📍: Gushan Road, West Lake District
Perfect for hanfu photography
Ancient architecture + Leifeng Pagoda
Atmosphere straight out of a painting~

🚶【Perfect One-Day Itinerary】
07:00 Sunrise at Broken Bridge + Bai Causeway stroll🌞
08:30 Lotus photos at Crooked Courtyard
12:00 Authentic Hangzhou cuisine at Louwailou🍤
14:00 Boat ride or relaxation at Maojiabu
17:00 Sunset at Leifeng Pagoda or Jixian Pavilion
19:00 Shopping/dining at Hubin Intime + Music Fountain🎶

🚲【Transport Guide】
🔹Subway: Line 4 to Longxiangqiao Station Exit C
🔹Bike: Free lakeside cycling (mind return stations)
🔹Boat: Opt for hand-rowed boats (150-300/h) for unique routes

🍵【Food Recommendations】
•Top 3 Hangzhou dishes: West Lake vinegar fish|Longjing shrimp|Beggar's chicken
•Snack trio: Scallion pancake|Dingsheng cake|Pian'erchuan noodles
•Summer specials: Drunken crayfish|Lotus root jelly porridge🧊

🏨【Accommodation Picks】
💰Luxury choice: Grand Hyatt Hangzhou
📍Prime West Lake location with amazing views
🎑Artsy option: Baileqiao homestay area
📸 Instagram-worthy shots
💼Most convenient: Hubin Road commercial area
🛍️ All-in-one dining and entertainment

⚠️【Important Tips】
☀️Sun protection trio: Hat|Sunglasses|Sunscreen
🦟Carry mosquito repellent
⏰Visit before 7am during holidays
🎫Book attractions in advance

Bookmark this guide now‼️
Come experience West Lake's romantic summer charm~
Drop any questions in comments 💖

Post by Caleb Alexander | Aug 10, 2025

Related Travel Moments

Most Popular Travel Moments