West Lake: Off-the-Beaten-Path Wonders
West Lake is a poem made manifest in beauty. If your desire is to evade the thronging crowds of iconic landmarks such as Broken Bridge and Leifeng Pagoda, I commend this particular itinerary to you, which eschews the jostling masses in favor of a uniquely tranquil allure.
Commence your day in the early hours at Taiziwan Park, where you can behold the tulips in full bloom, escaping the daytime crowds and reveling in the serenity amidst birdsong and fragrant blossoms.
Yuhug Bay, accessible via a leisurely stroll from Taiziwan, reveals a scenic path that hugs the lake's edge. Meandering trails lead to secluded spots, tranquil streams flow beneath graceful bridges, and the profusion of Orychophragmus violaceus blooms sets the stage for the whitewashed walls and dark-tiled roof of the Jihong Bridge.
Turtle Pool (Wuguitan): Continuing along the lakeside, one feels as though they have stumbled into a pastoral sanctuary. Thatched cottages line the lake's shores, quiet woodlands beckon, and one encounters barely a soul along the way, creating an atmosphere of profound tranquility.
Maojiabu: As the starting point of the "Ancient Incense Road," Maojiabu presents a vista of captivating scenes at every turn. Its natural beauty is complemented by a wealth of cultural attractions, including the towering dark green trees, the Jade Stream Bridge, and the former residence of Du Jinsheng.
Guo's Villa (Guozhuang): A lesser-known classical Jiangnan garden nestled on West Lake, its singular distinction lies in its incorporation of vistas both within its confines and from the surrounding West Lake.
Lotus in the Breeze at the Winding Courtyard (Quyuan Fenghe): While Quyuan Fenghe is enchanting during all seasons, it is particularly beguiling during this time of year, as gentle streams meander beneath graceful bridges, cherry blossoms burst into full bloom, and small boats glide lazily through the floral canopy, creating a scene akin to a celestial paradise.
Taiziwan Park -> Yuhug Bay -> Turtle Pool (Wuguitan) -> Maojiabu -> Guo's Villa (Guozhuang) -> Lotus in the Breeze at the Winding Courtyard
