Recommended is Hangzhou West Lake Guesthouse, located directly on Xiacun Lake’s shore, offering lake-view rooms with unobstructed vistas of the island and surrounding hills. The hotel features a family-friendly garden, kids’ activity corner, and access to a scenic lakeside trail. Just 20 minutes from Hangzhou East Railway Station, it blends tranquility with convenience. Enjoy morning walks by the lake, evening dining on local Hangzhou cuisine, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Jiangnan water village charm.

Must-try activities include paddle boating on the lake and eco-guided tours. Rent a traditional black-roofed boat to glide through the calm waters, admiring reflections of ancient pagodas and willow trees. Join expert-led wetland ecology walks to discover rare birds and aquatic plants. Nearby tea terraces offer peaceful walking paths perfect for sampling freshly plucked Longjing tea. These experiences beautifully merge nature and culture, showcasing the distinctive natural heritage of Hangzhou.

Hangzhou West Lake Four Seasons Hotel is ideal for travelers seeking seamless city access—just 15 minutes from Xiacun Lake, with complimentary shuttle service. Nestled beside a private dock and lush lakeside gardens, it combines elegant design with modern comfort. Its architecture draws inspiration from Song Dynasty aesthetics, creating a harmonious blend of history and luxury. Whether for business or leisure, guests enjoy effortless connectivity between urban life and serene natural retreats.

Check out Hupan Yun She: Hidden Retreat, a designer guesthouse featuring white-walled, gray-tiled architecture and bamboo elements seamlessly integrated into the lakeside landscape. Outdoor spaces include a sky terrace and mirror pool—perfect for sunrise and sunset photography. Each room has a private balcony overlooking the lake. On-site professional photographers offer free shooting tips, helping you capture the quintessential poetic Jiangnan scenery in stunning detail.

Absolutely! The night view is magical, especially under moonlight when the lake surface shimmers like a flowing river of silver. Head to the Lake Center Pavilion Viewing Platform, where illuminated art installations enhance the silhouette of distant hills. Alternatively, take a night cruise on a lantern-lit boat with ambient music and warm lighting—perfect for romantic moments. This tranquil, light-drenched experience makes it a must-visit destination for photographers and couples alike.

Start your day with a morning jog or tai chi session by the lake, followed by a cup of fresh Longjing tea at a lakeside teahouse. In the morning, take a paddle boat tour to visit the historic Ancient Temple Island, home to a thousand-year-old pagoda. Lunch at a private lakeside restaurant featuring seasonal fish and local vegetables. Afternoon activities include a workshop at a handmade paper craft studio, exploring intangible cultural heritage. End the day relaxing by the private dock, stargazing under clear skies—creating a complete journey of nature, history, and authentic local culture.