Hangzhou West Lake Bike Tour: How China Turns Nature into Art｜China

Meet Hangzhou through the eyes of a local cultural researcher and content creator.

With an RMA in Cultural Analysis from the University of Amsterdam, a BA from Nanjing University, and five published academic papers on art and cross-cultural studies, I combine rigorous research with an inter-cultural perspective, translating the complexities of China into clear, accessible and engaging stories.

Start your ride the Hangzhou way: hop on and cycle along West Lake, following the peaceful inner routes that locals prefer over the crowded tourist paths.

Your first stretch takes you through Yang Gong Causeway, one of the most scenic cycling roads around the lake, shaded by trees and surrounded by water on both sides. Along the way, you’ll stop at classic lake views such as Flower Pond and Swimming Fish, where red fish glide through clear ponds beside traditional gardens.

Continuing on two wheels, you’ll reach the quieter western side of the lake near Maojia Wharf, a peaceful wetland area loved by locals. From there, your guide will take you to a hidden cultural gem: Gaoli Temple, a Song-style Buddhist temple surrounded by Zen gardens and forest paths, rarely visited by large tour groups.

Then the ride continues into the tea hills to visit the tranquil China Tea Museum, where you’ll see landscapes of Longjing tea fields and learn about China’s tea culture.