West Lake (Xi Hu)
West Lake (Xi Hu)
4.5
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
About
Considered one of the most beautiful sights in Hangzhou, this scenic lake is sheltered on three sides by hills, with open flat land to the northeast where downtown Hangzhou is located.
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C$84.76
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- MuzzamuzzamuzzaWellington, New Zealand141 contributionsA long day but worthwhileThe lake is beautiful, and if it weren't for the haze it would have been spectacular. We started walking at 9 am on New Year's Eve and it was already busy. By the time we circumnavigated the lake and reached our starting point again at 4 pm it was impossible to walk at our own speed given the density of the crowd. There are many attractions to look at, eating places, and clean toilets.Visited December 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten January 8, 2024
- Nguyễn PHanoi, Vietnam2 contributionsPleasant experience!Walking to the West Lake brings me the feeling of serenity. The cool air, crisp sunlight, pleasant dry weather did really make my day. And do not forget the beautiful sceneries. You should at least book a boat for a round in this lake, which takes about 1 hour and 5 USD. I love it!Visited December 2023Travelled soloWritten February 17, 2024
- Maree RChristchurch, New Zealand1,289 contributionsBeautiful AreaA nice place for a boat ride or a walk. We enjoyed our time on the water although it would have been nice to have a little more space on the boat, it felt cramped. Lots of people walking and the gardens on the walk through from our bus are beautiful.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten March 28, 2024
- Sila1234Townsville, Australia31 contributionsDon’t miss WestlakeBelieve me this this place deserves all the hype. The ancient capital ruins, pagodas, temples, lake cruises, restaurants and picture postcards scenery made this location a must visit. We flew in via China Eastern from Xian but the fast train from Shanghai is quick and affordable even for a day trip. I recommend at least 2 days for Hangzhou. Tips: 1. For 40 RMB take a 60 mins buggy ride around the lake to orientate yourself. 2. Start early to avoid the massive crowds (even on Monday) 3. Don’t miss the Impression Dance spectacular on the lake @ 7.40pm. It’s on a massive scale and truly world class.Visited April 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten April 2, 2024
- bcheongShanghai, China49,543 contributionsUNESCO lakeThe famous tourist site of hangzhou and an UNESCO site. Worth a half or full day walk, and there are 10 famous scenes if you want to do a “scavenger hunt”. We managed to get to 3: - 3 pools mirroring the moon - remnant snow on the bridge in winter - moon over the peaceful lake in autumnVisited April 2024Travelled with friendsWritten April 3, 2024
- Erico2709Singapore, Singapore2,490 contributionsBeautiful scenery and sereneWe went just before 1 May so the crowd was still quite decent. It is just not possible to complete the whole lake in 1 day so you have to do some research what you want to see. You can also hop on trams if you just want to sit and have the driver drive you around on selected routes.Visited April 2024Travelled with familyWritten April 29, 2024
- AngieluLunaCosta Mesa, California48 contributionsIt's a must!If you are in Hangzhou or its vecinity, you must go to the West Lake. It's enormous, but no matter what part it is, you will definitely love it! It is so relaxing, I imagine it to be a little glimpse of paradise. The enormous trees, the flowers, the different types of birds, the rounded bridges, and the boats. Just everything. My sister and I went and ended up at the old city section. It was just so beautiful. We are anxious to go back to China and explore more, but this time with my husband as well.Visited June 2023Travelled with friendsWritten May 13, 2024
- Yap MFreiburg im Breisgau, Germany58 contributionsScenic Hangzhou West LakeA vast scenic place for taking photos and people watching. There are many stores and activities along the lake too. You can hop-on/ off a buggy if you wish to cover the area more. Yes, it will costs you a few yuan depending where you hop-on and hop-off ( speak to the driver). We ride the buggy to Leifeng Pagoda and take the escalator to the entrance. And you can take a lift or climb the stairs to the top level of the pagoda to enjoy the view. Space is narrow and lots of people, so do take care of personal effects.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten June 4, 2024
- Zfy EdSingapore, Singapore10,566 contributionsNice cruising experience!During our recent visit to West lake in Hangzhou, we had the opportunity to drive a small boat around the lake that offered us an up and closed view of the beautiful lake and the surrounding scenery. It was so nice and awesome! The boat was very easy to control, just forward and backward direction and the speed was kept constant. We rented the boat for an hour and it cost about 160rmb (+100rmb deposit which can be retrieved upon returning the boat). It was so cool and awesome captaining the boat to the various aspects of the lake. The lake was generally calm though that times there were some waves moving towards us that caused a small flipflop of our boat but that was ok. The only issue we had was the life jacket that we put on. They were not properly tied up (as there was no string or hook to tie up but just putting over our head). But the staff were generally friendly and helpful in helping us down/up the boat and giving us briefings.Visited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten June 19, 2024
- Tigre74Irvine, California100 contributionsWell deserved the fame, West LakeBeautiful lake, surrounding by landmarks and tea villages. The lake is especially beautiful in early morning, when only the local are there for taichi or walking. Stay away from the western hotels areas if you can. We stayed at a traditional hotel, near Leifeng Pagoda. The early morning walk is a must, if you want to truly enjoy the poetic beauty of the lake.Visited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten July 22, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
7,554 reviews
Excellent
4,704
Very good
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516
Poor
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Terrible
20
asthecrowsfly2
Melbourne, Australia229 contributions
Aug 2019
We visited the West Lake via a cruise in August 2019. This was a lovely and relaxing way to take in the scenery. The boat we were on had a very loud group of locals who were also on tour. They unfortunately made it very difficult to hear the historical and cultural significance of the West Lake, but we enjoyed our time nonetheless. There is plenty of opportunity to take photos and enjoy the serenity of this beautiful location.
Written June 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jydeoo
Lagos, Nigeria2,311 contributions
Oct 2019
My friend lived in Hangzhou many years, so when I went to visit Hangzhou on business, I asked her which is the best attraction to visit. Without hesitation, she named the West Lake, and recommended the Water and Light show that takes place in the evening.
And so it was that I went to the visit the West Lake and watched the dancing fountains show. Impressive, it was. No regrets, I have. Visit again, I will, I hope.
And so it was that I went to the visit the West Lake and watched the dancing fountains show. Impressive, it was. No regrets, I have. Visit again, I will, I hope.
Written May 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Daniel
Hangzhou, China10 contributions
Jan 2020
The picture on the one yuan bank note used to be the Great Wall of China. About 15 years ago, that was replaced with a picture of West Lake, (the three pools reflecting the moon).
West Lake is halfway surrounded by hills on the western side,
and has parks that almost fully surround it, some of which are very extensive. It is beautiful all year long, but afternoons in July & August are hot and humid. Local citizens who want to meet, and chat with, foreign tourists, go to West Lake's north-east corner on Sunday afternoons. They have been doing that for over 30 years.
West Lake is halfway surrounded by hills on the western side,
and has parks that almost fully surround it, some of which are very extensive. It is beautiful all year long, but afternoons in July & August are hot and humid. Local citizens who want to meet, and chat with, foreign tourists, go to West Lake's north-east corner on Sunday afternoons. They have been doing that for over 30 years.
Written February 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MattwalesNorthWales
Chengdu, China2,424 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
A huge, and beautiful lake that is the main reason for visiting here. Around the lake there are temples, pagodas, and gardens to feast your eyes upon and you must take advantage of the myriad of ferries that can take you to all points around the lake. As our time was limited we only had time to go to a small island which has lake within a lake which is especially good for viewing the reflection of the moon. Today it is more famous as the image found on the Chinese 1¥ note. A great day out if your time allows.
Written April 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SLE811
115 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
Crowded even during winter. Not much of scenery during winter but I guess it must be beautiful during other seasons. Recommend to take the buggy and stop at each scenery attraction. For a round lake trip by buggy without stopping is about an hour.
Written January 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gabriela S
23 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
Beautiful during the day and at night. There’s a light show at night that is totally worth seeing. During the day you can along the lake, take a boat to see the scenery of the ¥1 bill, visit a pagoda, the broken bridge and eat at the restaurants around that area
Written March 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Traveller_Oldie
Charleston, SC279 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
Worth while visit. Make sure you go with a knowledgeable guide that can tell you the history and the stories (the White Snake lady is my favourite). Allow enough time to walk at least half-way round so that you can experience the people and the various bridges and islands.
Written January 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nguyễn P
Hanoi, Vietnam2 contributions
Dec 2023 • Solo
Walking to the West Lake brings me the feeling of serenity. The cool air, crisp sunlight, pleasant dry weather did really make my day. And do not forget the beautiful sceneries. You should at least book a boat for a round in this lake, which takes about 1 hour and 5 USD. I love it!
Written February 17, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sila1234
Townsville, Australia31 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
Believe me this this place deserves all the hype. The ancient capital ruins, pagodas, temples, lake cruises, restaurants and picture postcards scenery made this location a must visit. We flew in via China Eastern from Xian but the fast train from Shanghai is quick and affordable even for a day trip. I recommend at least 2 days for Hangzhou.
Tips:
1. For 40 RMB take a 60 mins buggy ride around the lake to orientate yourself.
2. Start early to avoid the massive crowds (even on Monday)
3. Don’t miss the Impression Dance spectacular on the lake @ 7.40pm. It’s on a massive scale and truly world class.
Tips:
1. For 40 RMB take a 60 mins buggy ride around the lake to orientate yourself.
2. Start early to avoid the massive crowds (even on Monday)
3. Don’t miss the Impression Dance spectacular on the lake @ 7.40pm. It’s on a massive scale and truly world class.
Written April 3, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Zfy Ed
Singapore, Singapore10,566 contributions
Jun 2024 • Family
During our recent visit to West lake in Hangzhou, we had the opportunity to drive a small boat around the lake that offered us an up and closed view of the beautiful lake and the surrounding scenery. It was so nice and awesome!
The boat was very easy to control, just forward and backward direction and the speed was kept constant. We rented the boat for an hour and it cost about 160rmb (+100rmb deposit which can be retrieved upon returning the boat). It was so cool and awesome captaining the boat to the various aspects of the lake. The lake was generally calm though that times there were some waves moving towards us that caused a small flipflop of our boat but that was ok.
The only issue we had was the life jacket that we put on. They were not properly tied up (as there was no string or hook to tie up but just putting over our head). But the staff were generally friendly and helpful in helping us down/up the boat and giving us briefings.
The boat was very easy to control, just forward and backward direction and the speed was kept constant. We rented the boat for an hour and it cost about 160rmb (+100rmb deposit which can be retrieved upon returning the boat). It was so cool and awesome captaining the boat to the various aspects of the lake. The lake was generally calm though that times there were some waves moving towards us that caused a small flipflop of our boat but that was ok.
The only issue we had was the life jacket that we put on. They were not properly tied up (as there was no string or hook to tie up but just putting over our head). But the staff were generally friendly and helpful in helping us down/up the boat and giving us briefings.
Written June 19, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
In der Nähe der Promenade darf man definitiv nicht ins Wasser.
Ich habe aber auch an den anderen Ufern keine Badenden gesehen. Es sind ja auch überall die kleinen Ausflugsboote - da würde ich nicht schwimmen wollen.
Written September 15, 2019
Hola, tengo 1 día para realizar una visita desde Shanghai , y estoy pensando si ir a Suzhou o a Hangzou , cuál sería mejor ?
gracias
Written June 15, 2018
Hola, sin duda iría a Suzhou, por ser más tradicional caminando por las callejuelas y con sus bellos canales tan típicos como una verdadera Venecia Oriental y también los Jardines del Administrador. No te los pierdas. Hangzhou es una ciudad moderna con el lago y maravillosos jardines, pero ve a Suzhou. Buen viaje
Written June 16, 2018
アクセスの仕方について伺います。
虹橋空港駅から杭州駅に行こうと考えていますが、調べたところ虹橋空港駅からは杭州東駅着が多いような気がします。
杭州東駅から、西湖へは簡単に行けますでしょうか?
虹橋空港駅から杭州駅(または杭州東駅)へ行きたいのですが、
時刻表や切符の種類など分かりやすいサイトはありませんか?
また、当日虹橋空港駅で切符を購入する際、行先や乗る列車は分かりやすいように表示されていますか。
西湖周辺では路線バスもあるようですが、迷わないか心配です。こちらについても、
路線図などの情報はありますでしょうか?
以上よろしくお願いいたします。
Written May 9, 2018
虹橋駅は虹橋空港の隣にあり、便利です。
杭州行の高速鉄道は、杭州東駅と虹橋駅を結んでいる鉄道です。
虹橋駅は大きいので、表示はありましたが、少し迷うところもあります。
案内をよく見ていくことが必要です。
杭州東から西湖へは、初めてならタクシーがいいと思います。
サイトでは上海ナビの中で西湖を紹介しています。
杭州のバス路線図は、サイトで探しましたが、すみませんがいいのがありませんでした。
Written May 9, 2018
The lake is a feature of the city, with parks and attractions all around it. It is free to walk around it and enjoy the scenery. It only costs money if you want to hire a boat to across the lake.
Written October 23, 2018
hi peeps, I am going to hang zhou soon. I have few queries would like to know. hope you guys can solve my queries
1. How to take their buses in hangzhou? how to buy their ticket ? Is it hard for foreigners to take? How long to wait for the bus? Is it very crowded all the time or only rush hour?
2. Is taxi there expensive ? How to avoid con ?
Written December 15, 2016
because I can't reply with the link
just 杭州 交通
please copy and paste to look it up
From airport to city, there is bus running every 15-30 mins between 0600-2000, 20 RMB, it takes 50-90 mins.
For the bus in the city, it costs 1-2 RMB, for the sightseeing bus may cost you 3-5RMB, there is travel card told in tourist information.
The traffic condition was not good in fact, but it's only very crowded during rush hour. The Taxi doesn't really expensive if the driver took by meter, but you should be tough or you may not get any taxis because many people hire.
You can also take motor taxi, it's a usual way people do, the price varies and you need to bargain it.
Written December 15, 2016
compareday trip Hangzhou with Suzhou
Written October 9, 2016
Hello,
If you are asking about suzhou or hangzhou :
I would prefer day trip to Hangzhou.
Globally around the west like in hangzhou there are a lots to do. So it is easier to get from one place to another. Walking or biking. And with the public bike it is really easy. Pick it up here and leave it there.
Compared to Suzhou where you have to go through the city which isn't that nice. As the metro is still under construction so the city is more polluted.
Suzhou will be more, garden, temple and 2 old street.
For a day trip in Hangzhou :
- go around the lake by bike
- stop at some garden and nice spot
- picnic in a park
- street food for dinner
Written October 9, 2016
Hi,
Where on the lake is the best place to see the fountain and show at night?
Written September 4, 2016
The Music Fountain Show is at the Lakeside Third Park Dock, West Lake. The fountain area is 126 meters long, erupting into life twice in the day and four times in the early evening.
Begins: 10:00 am, 3:30 pm, 7:30 pm, 8:00 pm, 8:30 pm, 9:00 pm
Lasting: 15 minutes in daytime, 10 minutes at night
Written September 5, 2016
Can you go kayaking, or hire a boat etc?
Written January 28, 2016
Yes you can hire a boat. Big tourist boats take you to fairy island (highly recommended). There are also little boats that you can rent out with a man that will steer it for you and take you where you want to go. It's more expensive. These guys don't speak English (mostly). For kayaking, go to Xixi wetland park closeby. If you visit during the dragon boat festival you will see lots of beautiful boats and kayaking teams competing in an annual dragon boat race.
Written January 29, 2016
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