Hangzhou : Everything you need to know to plan your trip

Start your day in Hangzhou by taking an early morning walk around West Lake at the time of morning mist, when the hills fade into the misty background and the lotus plants hang still in the water. You can hop on one of the little traditional boats to be taken around the lotuses and temples and see the beautiful arched bridges, the pagodas, and the green islands in the lake. After passing through West Lake you can make your way to Lingyin Temple, a Buddhist temple in a lovely valley which leads into a picture-perfect green hill and an area with stone statues carved into the cliff face.

For lunch, try the local delicacy of lake fish fried with sweet vinegar or prawns with Longjing tea at a waterfront restaurant. After lunch, stroll through Longjing, the tea growing region where you can observe tea being harvested as well as sample one of China’s most famous teas.

To end your day, wander down the ancient Qinghefang street, with its traditional stalls, tea shops and crafty shops. Afterward, finish your day in a flourish with a water-based night show such as "Impression West Lake", which combines dance, music, and lights in an amazing place in nature. A day in Hangzhou is to travel through poetry, spirituality and the Chinese art of living.