Hangzhou’s Best Spring Hikes for Stunning Views

Spring in Hangzhou is nothing short of magical. As the city shakes off the winter chill, its lush hills, blooming tea plantations, and misty lakes transform into a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual walker, Hangzhou’s trails offer breathtaking vistas, cultural gems, and serene escapes from urban life. Here are the best spring hikes to soak in the season’s beauty.

1. The Iconic West Lake Circuit

Why Hike It?

West Lake (Xi Hu) is Hangzhou’s crown jewel, and circling it on foot is the ultimate way to experience its springtime charm. The 10-kilometer loop takes you past willow-draped shores, ancient pagodas, and blossom-filled gardens.

Trail Highlights

• Sudi Causeway: A willow-lined path with postcard-perfect views of the lake.
• Leifeng Pagoda: Climb for panoramic views of the lake and city skyline.
• Flower Harbor Park: A burst of peonies and magnolias in spring.

Pro Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and catch the sunrise over the lake.

2. Longjing Tea Plantations Hike

Why Hike It?

Spring is tea-picking season, and Hangzhou’s Longjing (Dragon Well) tea fields are a sea of vibrant green. This hike combines nature, culture, and a taste of China’s most famous tea.

Trail Route

Begin at Longjing Village and wind through terraced tea fields to Nine Creeks and Eighteen Gullies (Jiu Xi Shi Ba Jian). The trail is shaded by bamboo groves and crisscrossed by babbling streams.

Must-Do

• Stop at a tea house for a fresh brew of Longjing tea.
• Visit the China National Tea Museum to learn about tea culture.

3. Five Clouds Mountain (Wuyun Shan)

Why Hike It?

For a mix of nature and spirituality, this hike leads you through dense forests to ancient temples with sweeping views.

Trail Details

Start at Yunqi Bamboo Path, a serene tunnel of towering bamboo, then ascend to Five Clouds Mountain. The hike takes about 2-3 hours, ending at Lingyin Temple, one of China’s most revered Buddhist sites.

Don’t Miss: The 1,000-year-old Five Clouds Tree at the summit.

4. Beishan Street & Geling Mountain

Why Hike It?

This urban hike blends history, art, and stunning lake views. Beishan Street is a cultural hub, while Geling Mountain offers quiet trails just minutes from the city.

What to See

• Beishan Street: Lined with galleries, cafes, and historic villas.
• Geling Mountain: A short climb rewards you with a bird’s-eye view of West Lake.

Best Time: Late afternoon, when golden light bathes the lake.

5. Xixi Wetland Park Trails

Why Hike It?

A quieter alternative to West Lake, Xixi Wetland is a maze of waterways, wooden bridges, and blooming flowers in spring.

Trail Tips

• Rent a boat to explore the canals.
• Visit the Xixi National Wetland Museum to understand the ecosystem.

6. Hupao (Tiger Spring) Trail

Why Hike It?

Known for its sweet spring water, this trail is a favorite among locals. The path is shaded and peaceful, perfect for a relaxed hike.

Highlights

• Hupao Spring: Fill your bottle with the legendary water.
• Hupao Dreaming of Tiger Sculpture: A quirky photo spot.

7. Feilai Feng (Peak Flown From Afar)

Why Hike It?

This limestone peak near Lingyin Temple is dotted with Buddhist carvings and caves. The short but steep hike offers unique cultural and natural sights.

What to Explore

• Feilai Feng Grottoes: Hundreds of ancient stone carvings.
• Lingyin Temple: A spiritual finale to your hike.

Packing Tips for Spring Hikes in Hangzhou

• Layers: Spring weather can be unpredictable.
• Comfortable Shoes: Trails range from paved paths to rocky steps.
• Camera: You’ll want to capture every view.

Hangzhou’s spring hikes are a feast for the senses—where every trail tells a story, and every turn reveals a new wonder. Lace up your boots and hit the trails before the summer heat arrives!