HANGZHOU
A Luxury Collection Destination, China
PAGODAS AND GILDED TEMPLES DOT THE FORESTED HILLSIDES OF HANGZHOU, THE CULTURAL AND ECONOMIC CAPITAL OF CHINA’S ZHEJIANG PROVINCE.
Overlooking placid West Lake and cloaked in deep forest, Hangzhou deftly balances natural tranquility and the vibrant city streets of a modern metropolis. One of China’s eight ancient capitals and historically home to monks, artists and poets, Hangzhou retains a cultural authenticity that makes it one of the country’s most extraordinary cities.
Hangzhou’s scenic West Lake has been a muse to writers and poets since the 9th century.
Discover the beauty of West Lake’s arched bridges, pagodas, and meticulous gardens.
Escape the buzzing city and retreat along West Lake’s banks to soak in the scenery and architecture.
DISCOVERIES
Set off in the late afternoon to take in city views from ancient Leifeng Pagoda on Sunset Hill high about Hangzhou. This five-storey eight sided pagoda was built in 977 by king of Wuyue Kingdom as a gift to his pregnant concubine. At dusk as the begins to set, the bronze-tiled tower takes on a glorious gold glow.
Resting at the foot of Mount Lingyin, this temple of Zen Buddhism of the same name is one of the largest and most important in China. Founded in 326 A.D., stroll the ancient grounds rich with detailed temples, sacred pavilions, stone statues, and incredible artwork that depicts the multi-layered history of this working monastery.
Tea culture continues to thrive as it has for 600 years in the ancient village of Meijiawu, home to China’s producer of Longjing, also known as dragon well, tea. Verdant plantations seem to roll without end to the edge of surrounding mountains. Experience the harvest by picking tea in the traditional methods alongside local villagers, or visit one of the hundreds of tea houses for a tea ceremony.
