Joanna James
This city of Hangzhou has something for everyone, where you can find things to do such as scenic hikes that take you into the depths of the wilderness that contains untold beauty and wonder. The landscapes offer vistas unlike anything else in the world and are simply awaiting visitors.
The West Lake in Hangzhou has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, due to its stunning design of pagodas, and artificial islands. It is also best known for the Ten Scenic Spots in the West Lake which is a series of views that are each marked with Chinese calligraphy, the most popular of which include "Two Peaks Piercing the Clouds" which is considered a great place to take your family and kids to as well.
The Lingyin Temple is considered to be one of China's oldest as well as biggest Buddhist temples which makes it one of the best places to visit in the region. It was established in 326 CE, during the Eastern Jin Dynasty, and was founded by the monk Hui Li who helped to create a community around it during his time. At the moment the temple contains various grounds and sacred halls, which cover an area of around 90,000 square meters that are open to visitors to explore.
Between the Linying Temple lies the Fei Lai Feng which is a large mountain of limestone that is 168 metres tall and also contains a hidden attraction. This is the 345 handcrafted stone statues of the Buddha that dates all the way back to various dynasties across the history of China making it a truly sacred site to visit as you venture into the trail.
If you are staying at an accommodation in Hangzhou such as the Citadines Intime City Hangzhou, be sure to ask for the best times to visit this attraction during your visit to the city so that you can avoid any crowds that may gather.
The Leifeng Pagoda consists of a five-storey and 8-sided tower that is found on the southern side of the West Lake and can be dated back to 975 CE.
This location is globally due to the stories in Chinese folklore which speaks of a lake-dwelling snake spirit who happens to fall in love with a human before being imprisoned in this pagoda forever by a Buddhist monk.
The Xixi Wetland Park is one of the best places in China to visit as a tourist and is certainly one of the best places to visit as a birdwatching enthusiast. With a national 5A level tourist rating this park covers 11 square kilometres and consists of six rivers that flow through the park along with lakes and fish pools.
There are certain sections of the park such as the hazy fisher village and the autumn snow temple that are popular amongst many visitors.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
