Organize your Hangzhou itinerary by dedicating one day to the classical lakeside perimeter and a second day to the surrounding forested tea hills and Buddhist sanctuaries.
Day 1 revolves around West Lake: begin early with a walk across the willow-fringed Bai and Su Causeways before daytime heat and tour crowds arrive. Board a traditional painted boat to the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon island, disembarking near the Southern Song Imperial Kiln Museum or Leifeng Pagoda. In the evening, stroll along the historical stone flagstones of Qinghefang Ancient Street, dining on West Lake vinegar fish and Dongpo pork.
Day 2 leads into the hills: visit the ancient stone carvings and serene chanting halls of Lingyin Temple, continuing along mountain trails into the green tea terraces of Longjing Village or Meijiawu. Meet local tea growers, witness traditional wok-firing of fresh green tea leaves, and enjoy lunch at a hillside tea farmhouse. For a third day, visit the northern terminus of the Grand Canal at Gongchen Bridge and the Xixi National Wetland Park.
