Zhejiang Xizi Hotel · Wangzhuang · West Lake Famous Garden
I’ve long admired Wangzhuang, the iconic lakeside retreat near West Lake in Hangzhou, and finally had the chance to stay here during a Black Friday deal that felt like a steal. The moment I stepped in, I could tell this was something special—excellent service, top-notch dining, and an atmosphere that truly feels luxurious. The property is vast, with beautifully maintained lawns and trees. Since we visited right at peak season for maple and ginkgo foliage, the grounds were gently dusted with golden leaves, creating a magical, almost cinematic setting. Paths are clean and well-kept, making it easy to wander around for hours just taking photos and soaking in the scenery. We booked the daily 10 AM 'Wangzhuang Cruise' tour, which circles West Lake in about an hour. The boat itself is spotless, with comfortable upholstered seats, air-conditioned enclosed cabins, and panoramic glass windows that offer stunning views of both sides of the lake. I especially loved standing at the back deck to capture sweeping shots of the water and gardens—absolutely breathtaking. The highlight of the stay was the complimentary photography package. While one of the staff members from Hainan came across as rather abrupt and inflexible, the photographer, Mr. Song, and the makeup artist were incredibly kind, professional, and attentive. Their work brought out the best in our photos, and the final results were truly memorable. Overall, despite a minor hiccup, the experience exceeded expectations—this place deserves every bit of its reputation.
