Hangzhou

West Lake in Hangzhou is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of China's most iconic scenic destinations. Covering approximately 6.39 square kilometers, this cultural landscape seamlessly blends natural beauty with millennia of Chinese history and traditions. The lake features famous attractions including the Ten Scenes of West Lake, with highlights like Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, Broken Bridge, Su Causeway, and Bai Causeway. Visitors can explore by foot, bicycle, electric cart, or boat, with the latter offering particularly romantic experiences. The area is open year-round with free entry, making it accessible to all. With over 536,000 reviews and a 4.7/5 rating, West Lake consistently delivers exceptional experiences, though visitors should expect crowds during peak seasons.

Ru Yuan is a Michelin-recognized fine-dining restaurant on the edge of West Lake, known for seasonal tasting menus crafted by chef Fu Yuelan and his team. Reviews praise its garden-like lakeside setting, delicate seasonal plates and attentive service; reservations and a tasting-menu mindset are essential.

The sleek, elegant room stands in an osmanthus forest, the sweet scent of which lingers in the air in autumn. Once you set foot inside, the earthy smell of black tea takes over – tea-smoked dishes such as crispy skin chicken exude intoxicating aromas. The menu is dominated by Zhejiang classics made with seasonal ingredients from across the country. Try the river fish cooked with dried bamboo shoot, too. The tea ceremony at each table is quite a spectacle.

Coastal trade exhibits tracing Hangzhou's maritime links and Song–Ming era ship finds — appeals to history buffs and those curious about the Silk Road by sea.