Zhejiang Province

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.

Hangzhou's West Lake is a poetic cultural landscape with serene waters, pagodas, and gardens that inspired centuries of Chinese art and literature.

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.

A sprawling Neolithic archaeological park and UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves a walled city, hydraulic works and ritual areas of the Liangzhu culture (c. 3300–2300 BCE). Visitors praise the empty, pastoral scenery and seasonal rapeseed blooms, but warn that the site is large and often requires a shuttle or rented scooter to explore comfortably.

Rolling bamboo terraces and elevated boardwalks offering immersive groves and tea-scented breezes. Best spring–autumn; peaceful trails ideal for family walks and nature photography.

Quiet island coves with fine sand and clear water — good for island hopping, fresh seafood and relaxed beach days away from the mainland.

Paitou Station (牌头) is a railway station in Zhejiang (浙江省). Train tickets can be purchased at https://www.trip.com/trains/china/.

Putuo is China's sacred Buddhist island with cliffside temples, pilgrimage trails, and seafood feasts.

Ningbo blends maritime history as ancient port city with modern commerce, Tianyige library, and seafood.