Top 6 Things to Do in Hangzhou- A City of Old Time Novelties

A trademark of this beautiful imperial city is that it gently takes you back in time without compromising on modern conveniences; rather, it soothes and stimulates all five senses with therapeutic nature and tradition-enriched harmony. While there are allurements galore to discover in this imperial enclave, from picturesque timeless canals and old-world microcosms bejewelling the contemporary city to mansions designed in dynastic Sino-Western styles and irresistible medleys of art and nature favouring its lush gardens, the most captivating presence that draws one in is the UNESCO-listed West Lake. This theatrical waterfront hosts a myriad of experiential delicacies, whether it's the exhilarating performances and quirky romanticism of Songcheng Park, the wildlife-infused hike up the majestic Twin Peaks Piercing the Clouds for panoramic bliss or gliding through lyrical dreamscapes such as the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon.

Once you can extricate yourself from the whimsical pursuits of leaning over airy bridges crossing lotus ponds and cycling through blossom cascades while capturing the spectacular sunset views at the Su Causeway or Broken Bridge, your next stop should be Hangzhou's quaint artistic districts. Whether its Qinghefang Old Street, epitomising the historic richness of this dynastic township with its transporting architecture, vintage tea houses, and kaleidoscopic curio stands or the eccentric and atmospheric Hefang Street where you can get lost in jewel-toned memories of the past and hoard rare artisan antiques, you can easily spend an entire day steeping in these vibrant portals back in time.

Once upon a time, Hangzhou, as China's 2,200-year-old first capital city, was a commercial and cultural hub of international trade in valuable commodities from silks and teas to medicine and porcelain. If you want an authentic taste of the grandeur and talent that accompanied the world-renowned work of those artisan traders, head over to admire the exquisite architecture of the heritage-listed Hangzhou National Silk Museum and soak in all the ingenious inspiration it holds. With 50,000 square metres worth of lushly intricate themed galleries that feature every aspect of China's proud history of elaborate craftsmanship, you can only expect to be blown away.

You can't claim to have fully enjoyed Hangzhou until you've sipped on the fragrant jade liqueur of the native Dragon Well (Longjing) tea, which is storied to taste like mellow springtime with hints of roasted chestnut and buttery sweetness. This aromatic beverage is best appreciated amidst the velvety emerald tea terraces enveloping the idyllic Mejjawu Tea Village, where you can get your fix of delicious caffeine, pastoral beauty, and heritage tidbits. If you're looking for sophisticated Hangzhou serviced apartments proffering prime access to its sensational allurements, venture no further than lyf Mid-Town Hangzhou.

For a delightfully off-the-beaten-track diversion that will thrill all those back at home, take a trip to Shi Cheng and (literally) dive into the ruins of this once-majestic lost city. Built during the reign of the Eastern Han Dynasty, this ancient kingdom of breathtaking architecture lies beneath a hundred feet of water at some points, with much of its distinctive beauty still intact, from its 300 arches to the ornate detailing of its carvings.

If you're craving more than simply feasting your eyes in postcard-perfect Hangzhou, the Zhejiang provincial capital also originates one of China's eight delectable regional cuisines. Known for its light, wholesome flavours and piquant flair, the local food scene hosts several special dishes you don't want to miss, from succulent sweet and sour West Lake Fish and lotus-scented Beggar's Chicken roast to deliciously rejuvenating osmanthus and chestnut soup.