Drizzling Rain in Hangzhou, the Most Beautiful West Lake

Visiting Hangzhou without seeing West Lake is like not coming at all! 😍 This 2-day essential travel guide takes you on a one-stop tour of West Lake's charm and Jiangnan gardens, both artistic and effortless~

🚶🏻♀️ Itinerary
Day 1:
📍 Guozhuang: The only complete private garden remaining in Hangzhou, known as the "Crown of West Lake Classical Gardens." Tickets are a great value at 10 RMB! The garden is small but exquisite, with pavilions and waterside terraces arranged harmoniously. Wearing Hanfu for photos here is highly recommended for stunning shots 📸
【Tip】Opens at 9:00 AM; best to visit early when it's less crowded to enjoy the tranquil Jiangnan courtyard atmosphere.

📍 West Lake Loop: A 10-minute walk from Guozhuang leads to the entrance of Yang Gong Causeway. Recommended counterclockwise route: Flower Harbor Viewing Fish → Su Causeway in Spring Dawn → Broken Bridge in Snow → Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake, each step revealing breathtaking scenery 🌊
【Money-saving tip】Renting a shared bike to circle the lake is easier; don’t forget your sun hat!

Day 2:
📍 West Lake Boat Ride: Be sure to try rowing a boat yourself (150 RMB/hour). The recommended route is "Guozhuang—Maojiabu," drifting through the reed marshes to experience the true secret spots of West Lake 🛶
【Practical info】Best to go early between 7-8 AM to avoid crowds and catch the sunrise.

📍 West Lake Sunset: In the evening, Changqiao Park opposite Leifeng Pagoda is the perfect spot to capture the sunset over West Lake. The sunlight gilding Leifeng Pagoda is an unforgettable sight 🌅

🍲 Food Recommendations:
✔ "Cuiyuehui" Hangzhou cuisine restaurant near Guozhuang (No. 38 Yang Gong Causeway), the Longjing shrimp and Dongpo pork are amazing.
✔ "Lou Wai Lou" by West Lake (No. 30 Gushan Road) for authentic West Lake vinegar fish; remember to reserve a window seat in advance.

🏡 Accommodation Suggestions:
√ Near South Song Imperial Street on the east bank of West Lake, convenient transportation and plenty of food options.
√ If budget allows, stay at West Lake State Guesthouse for a private first-line lake view.

✨ Tips:
- West Lake is very crowded on weekends; weekdays are recommended for visiting.
- The best scenery is during cherry blossom season in March-April and osmanthus season in September-November.
- Bring an umbrella! Hangzhou’s weather changes quickly.