Spring Dawn at Su Causeway, Broken Bridge in Snow, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon — how to tour West Lake's Ten Scenes most sensibly? This one-day plan maps the best route.
Why It's Worth the Trip
West Lake is the soul of Hangzhou; the Broken Bridge, Su Causeway and Three Pools Mirroring the Moon spread a poetic scene across the water. Fair or rainy, it's always a view — rent a bike and ride slowly around the lake, and you'll understand the tenderness of Jiangnan.
Recommended Itinerary
- Arrive in Hangzhou
- Check in to hotel
- Cycle around West Lake
- Dinner on Hefang Street
- Morning: Lingyin Temple
- Afternoon: tea tasting at Longjing Village
- Evening: Songcheng Romance of the Millennium
- Early start for Qiandao Lake
- Boat cruise around the lake
- Climb Meifeng for island views
- Return to Hangzhou
Highlights Along the Way
West Lake
West Lake is the soul of Hangzhou; the Broken Bridge, Su Causeway and Three Pools Mirroring the Moon spread a poetic scene across the water. Fair or rainy, it's always a view — rent a bike and ride slowly around the lake, and you'll understand the tenderness of Jiangnan.
Lingyin Temple
Lingyin Temple hides below Peak Flying from Afar, its incense burning unbroken for a thousand years, stone carvings scattered through the gullies. Past the Cold Spring and through quiet woods, you'll find a peace the city can rarely offer.
Qiandao Lake
Qiandao Lake is a reservoir that turned into a thousand emerald islets, its water crystal clear; island-hopping by boat is the best way to play. From Meifeng Island's summit you take in the full "emerald water, a thousand isles" panorama.
🧭 Local Tips
- At dawn the Broken Bridge is empty and its reflection calmest; plan a full day
- A sculled boat into Maojiabu is more secluded and relaxed
- Lake-ring buses and bikes are both handy; saves detours
- Buy the Peak Flying ticket first, then enter the temple separately; plan a half day
- The morning-prayer hours are quietest, before tourists arrive
- Yongfu Temple is on the way, with a tea room overlooking the view; saves detours
Frequently Asked Questions
What season is most beautiful in Hangzhou?
March–May brings Spring Dawn at Su Causeway, and September–November the Sweet Osmanthus Rain of Manjuelong — both enchanting. Summer lotuses are lovely too but humid; winter's Broken Bridge in Snow is a rare treat if you're lucky.
How to enjoy Hangzhou in three days without rushing?
One day circling West Lake plus Lingyin; one day Xixi Wetland and Longjing Village; half a day Zhejiang Provincial Museum; the rest for Hefang Street and a night cruise on the Grand Canal.