West Lake Tours and Activities

West Lake which includes a garden and autumn colours
Choose two or more items and save on your trip:
Relax and unwind in this incredibly scenic area. Take photographs to remember your Hangzhou stay.

Located near downtown Hangzhou, West Lake is a large, freshwater lake. The lake has 3 causeways, which divide it into five distinct sections. West Lake is also home to a variety of gardens, temples and pagodas.

While the lake has numerous attractions, the most famous are the "10 Scenes of the West Lake". Broken Bridge is one of the most popular sites, and is often quite busy, but is well worth a visit. Another popular site is Three Pools Mirroring the Moon. Located on Xiaoying Island, the name Three Pools refers to the three small pagodas arranged in a triangle on the water. During the full moon, the pagodas are filled with lit candles, making them look like tiny moons.

Explore the pagodas, churches and temples that overlook the West Lake. Be sure to visit the Mid-Lake Pavilion, which is the oldest pavilion in Hangzhou. This serene site is said to have been the inspiration for the famous poem Chong Er (Endless Love). 

Admire the ornate Lingyin Tample, which has been in use for centuries. For spectacular vistas of West Lake and beyond, hike to the base of the Baochu Pagoda. For one of the best views of Hangzhou’s skyline, visit Leifong Pagoda.

Unwind in one of the many gardens and parks around West Lake. In the springtime, marvel at the gorgeous tulips and watch as tea pickers work in the Longjing fields. Overlook the pristine waters as you enjoy a cup of fresh tea at Guo’s Villa. See the extensive collection flora at the Hangzhou Botanical Gardens.

While it is not possible to see everything that West Lake has to offer in one day, day visitors can see some of the main attractions, a teahouse and a garden. Pick a few highlights to plan your day around or visit over a period of several days to make the most of West Lake.

Get out on the water with a ride on one of the private gondolas or tourist boats that dock around the lake. Different boats go to different destinations on the lake and are priced accordingly. For a day trip, consider walking the perimeter of West Lake. The journey takes about 5 hours and if you get lost, locals will happily point you in the right direction.

Popular places to visit


Top West Lake Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Hangzhou Bokai Westlake Hotel
Hangzhou Bokai Westlake Hotel
3 out of 5
No.32, Qingnian Road, West Lake District – Hubin Area, Hangzhou, Zhejiang
Hangzhou Bokai Westlake Hotel
Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake
Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake
5 out of 5
333 West Lake Avenue, Hangzhou, Zhejiang
Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake
Courtyard by Marriott Hangzhou Wulin
Courtyard by Marriott Hangzhou Wulin
4 out of 5
28 Hushu South Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang
Courtyard by Marriott Hangzhou Wulin
Hangzhou Dahua Hotel
Hangzhou Dahua Hotel
4 out of 5
No 171, Nanshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang
Hangzhou Dahua Hotel
Liuying Hotel
Liuying Hotel
5 out of 5
No 6 Qing Bo Qiao He Xia Nanshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang
Liuying Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.