Hangzhou Travel: Hidden Gems Known Only to Locals, Away From the Crowds

| Hidden Gems Known Only to Locals, Away From the Crowds. Want to avoid the crowds and experience the real charm of Jiangnan? Locals in Hangzhou recommend a few niche attractions that will allow you to enjoy a different side of Hangzhou, away from 99% of the tourists. Turtle Pool: Known as the "most secret water route in West Lake," this is the back garden of West Lake. Take a gondola from Fish Viewing at Flower Harbor to Yuhubo Bay, and then to Turtle Pool. The whole journey takes 1.5 hours and feels like you are in a fairy tale. The late cherry blossoms in March and the Chinese violet cress in April are breathtaking. The price for a chartered boat is CNY 300 per boat, which can carry up to 6 people. Yunqi Bamboo Trail: This is the bamboo forest from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. On rainy days, the clouds and mist swirl around, making it feel like a fairyland. Must-see attractions include the tea garden opposite the entrance, the solitary tree, the Xixin Pavilion, and the wooden boardwalk. Tickets are only CNY 8. Taking photos in Hanfu or new Chinese-style clothing will give you better results. Maojiabu: This is a secret base for locals to walk their kids and dogs. With its dark gray towering pavilion, thatched cottages, and wild ducks playing in the water, the reed marshes in autumn are even more beautiful. Recommended hiking route: Guo Zhuang → Maojiabu → Turtle Pool. Faxi Temple: Compared to Lingyin Temple, this place is less crowded and quieter. The yellow walls of the 500-year-old temple are super healing. You can touch the characters and make a wish, which is very effective (remember to bring coins). However, you may have to wait in line for the popular photo spots. These attractions are all hidden gems known only to locals in Hangzhou. Avoid the crowds and experience the real charm of Jiangnan. Come and take a trip!