A Spring Stroll in Hangzhou's Tea Gardens | Discover a Green Wonderland

| Discover a Green Wonderland. "There are thirty-six West Lakes in the world, but the best is in Hangzhou." For me, however, Hangzhou's true charm lies in the rolling tea gardens nestled among the hills surrounding West Lake. In March, amidst a flurry of activity, I arrived in Hangzhou and immediately immersed myself in the West Lake tea gardens. Evergreen year-round, the air here is filled with the delicate fragrance of tea, a unique scenery hard to find elsewhere. Even on a cloudy day, when my phone struggled to capture its beauty, a simple stroll through the gardens was enough to soothe my soul with its vibrant greenery. West Lake, bustling with tourists, can feel a bit mundane. The tea gardens of the Longjing tea region, however, are where Hangzhou's soul truly resides. If you too yearn for this tranquility, consider following my itinerary: Take a bus or taxi to Meijiawu Village and begin your green journey from the "Shili Langdang" sign. Ascend the stone steps, and the sight of tea plants covering the mountains will unfold before you. Over the ridge lies Longjing Village, where the summit trail offers breathtaking views perfect for capturing stunning photos. On your way down, find a teahouse, order a cup of freshly brewed tea, and savor the peaceful moment. Next, follow the stone path to Nine Creeks and Eighteen Trees, accompanied by tea gardens along the way. Upon reaching the stone monument, you can easily return by shuttle bus. If you're feeling energetic, take on the challenge of climbing the steps beside the waterfall, venturing onto the wild paths that crisscross the mountain ridges. Turn left to reach the summit of Tiger Spring Mountain, rest at the Nobleman's Pavilion, and overlook the tea gardens and the magnificent West Lake. Finally, head to Tiger Spring Park from here, concluding your spring journey on a perfect note. This route encapsulates the essence of West Lake's tea gardens. I hope you too can find your own spring romance in this fragrant paradise.