Found in the nation’s east, Hangzhou is one of the most beautiful pockets of China. Visit its West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Take a leisurely boat ride across its tranquil waters, surrounded by verdant hills, pagodas and charming gardens. Experience the art of tea in Hangzhou’s renowned Longjing Tea Plantations. Visit the China National Silk Museum to understand the cultural significance of silk and witness the intricate art of silk weaving. And pay homage at the Lingyin Temple, one of the country’s most celebrated Buddhist temples, offering a glimpse into the local spiritual heritage. When it comes to food, do try the Dongpo pork and West Lake fish in sweet and sour sauce.
Amanfayun
Stay among tea fields, woodlands and bamboo groves and beside an active monastery, in this village-like resort, with 47 bedrooms/suites. Here timber buildings are connected via stone pathways and interspersed by wooden bridges and courtyards. A stunning outdoor swimming pool flanked by sun loungers and headed by a tiled pagoda. The Fayun Pathway is the resort’s main artery, from which you can access the five restaurants and the bathhouse. Amanfayun will immerse you in Chinese village life from a bygone era but with all the trappings and amenities of a luxe modern resort.
InterContinental Hangzhou
Nestled along the shores of West Lake, this hotel provides views of the water, the lush garden grounds and the surrounding mountains, creating a tranquil ambience. Seamlessly blending traditional Chinese aesthetics and native artworks with contemporary elements, the architecture features graceful lines and intricate details. A sanctuary of tranquillity and rejuvenation, the spa provides beauty rituals inspired by ancient Chinese traditions. Curated experiences such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons and traditional musical performances also enable guests to immerse in local heritage. The InterContinental’s rooftop bar is a standout feature and an ideal vantage point to admire the breathtaking West Lake sunsets.
JW Marriott Hotel Hangzhou
Located in the central business and commercial district close to Wulin Square and Hangzhou Tower shopping mall, the JW Marriott Hotel is a 10-minute taxi ride from West Lake. It has 305 guest rooms and suites, three glitzy restaurants (Man Ho, Cru Steakhouse and Asia Bistro) and a lobby lounge. Swim in the indoor pool, relax in the steam room and soothe aching muscles in the massage pool or the health club spa. Limousines are on hand to whisk guests around the city as required.
Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou At West Lake
Perched over the tranquil West Lake, this international hotel is local and traditional in style, with temple-like constructs, ponds, courtyards, graceful willow trees and atmospheric lagoons all with a mountainous backdrop. Loaner bikes enable guests to explore in an eco-conscious fashion, a wooden boat provides an unforgettable setting for an on-water breakfast, there’s a spa providing mindfulness retreats and rituals inspired by 18th-century Emperor Qianlong, and culinary concepts such as Jin Sha, with private dining options. Book a garden, lake or lagoon villa or the Presidential Suite with its own huge indoor pool.
Banyan Tree Spa Hangzhou
The poetic landscapes of the Xixi Wetlands Nature Reserve are the backdrop for this Banyan Tree Spa hotel. Drawing inspiration from ancient practices deeply rooted in Chinese culture and honouring these techniques, it offers a range of traditional therapies, such as Tui Na massage, acupuncture and herbal therapies, performed by therapists who have mastered these ancient arts. And the Rainforest Experience offers a unique journey through hydrotherapy. Villas and suites here come with their own private pools and gardens, ensuring the utmost privacy and exclusivity for guests. And the destination dining offer includes a very special Love Boat Dining experience.
The Azure Qiantang, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hangzhou
Swim with garden views and soak in the whirlpool; watch the floating world go by on the tidal Qiantang River; visit one of the world’s most famous green tea plantations close by (and try a huge number of varieties in the lounges); and workout in the top class fitness centre at The Azure Qiantang. Dine at Panorama on the 22nd floor and Lan Ting on the 23rd floor, whose glamorous 1920s-era accents create a vintage glamour. Ceilings that mimic the sky, a palette of baby blues and soft taupes and gleaming high-shine floors create a sleek aesthetic.
Relais & Chateaux Chaptel Hangzhou Hotel
Part of the West Lake UNESCO site, this authentic shikumen brick-built mansion is an homage to its original era, yet very relevant in the 21st-century. Wooden shutters, Art Deco ornaments, furniture handpicked from local craftsmen and Chinese umbrellas for shade in the ground floor garden all a one-of-a-kind personality to this historic monument. Guests can stay in bedrooms, suites, villas, or townhouses, with up to four bedrooms. Le Lotus is the Chaptel Hangzhou’s gourmet restaurant, with Chef Jack Wang at the helm. And the plant-filled roof terrace is a charming setting for a nightcap.
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