Beyond West Lake: 5 Hidden Gems Around Hangzhou’s Iconic Lake

For most visitors to Hangzhou, West Lake is the first stop—and rightfully so, with its year-round beauty. But don’t rush to leave after exploring the lake! There are countless hidden gems nearby: quiet, picturesque, and full of charm. Let’s discover them together!

Huiyin Goryeo Temple 慧因高丽寺

Address: No. 149-1, Santaishan Road (Near Bapanling Road) 三台山路149-1号 (近八盘岭路)

Tucked away just west of Santaishan Road, this quiet temple has a rich history dating back to 927, when it was originally named Huiyin Temple. Its fame grew in 1085, when Monk Yitian—a prince of the Goryeo Kingdom (modern-day Korea)—traveled here to study Buddhism. He donated sutras and funds to the temple, earning it the nickname "Goryeo Temple."

Though not an officially designated cultural relic, the temple is a treasure trove of Buddhist culture, dedicated to preserving and promoting Buddhist heritage in a contemporary way. Unlike the crowded Lingyin Temple or the Three Tianzhu Temples, it remains serenely quiet: Song-style buildings nestle in dense forests, with light yellow walls, dark grey tiles, and creeping vines. If you’re lucky, you might even spot squirrels darting through the tall trees!

Mulan Mountain Tea Garden 木兰山茶园

Address: No. 2, Yugu Road 玉古路2号

Right opposite the south gate of Hangzhou Botanical Garden, Mulan Mountain Tea Garden is a local secret—few tourists venture here, making it perfect for those seeking peace. Wander along any small path, and you’ll have the tranquility all to yourself. As you walk through the woodland, the fresh, earthy aroma of plants wraps around you, a welcome escape from the city.

Compared to the botanical garden’s popular spots (like Jade Spring or Han Meilin Art Museum, often packed with visitors), the tea garden offers a more relaxed vibe. The tea bushes and surrounding plants grow freely, creating a natural, unspoiled landscape that feels like a private retreat.

Mituo Temple Park 弥陀寺公园

Address: No. 53, Mituosi Road 弥陀寺路53号

This little-known temple park in the city center is full of surprises. Mituosi Lane is neat and clean, and stepping inside the park feels like entering a different world—one of white walls, dark grey tiles, carved beams, and painted pillars, all typical of Jiangnan architecture.

The park also showcases unique intangible cultural heritages of Hangzhou, such as Xizi needlecraft and woodblock printing. These traditional crafts are not just artistic expressions passed down through generations—they’re a source of local pride, offering visitors a glimpse into Hangzhou’s rich cultural tapestry.

Qingzhiwu 青芝坞

Address: No. 61, Yugu Road 玉古路61号

Just southwest of Mituo Temple, Qingzhiwu is a vibrant neighborhood brimming with local charm—think stylish guesthouses, cozy restaurants, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a favorite among locals, who come here to savor authentic Hangzhou flavors away from the tourist crowds.

You may have heard of Hangzhou’s famous dishes like West Lake Vinegar Fish (Xihu Cuyu) or Longjing Tea Shrimp (Longjing Xia Ren), but Qingzhiwu is where you’ll find local "Hang Er Feng" specialties (a dialect term for popular, must-try local trends). Don’t miss the Lotus Puff Pastry (Lianhua Su) and Huadiao Wine Crab (Huadiao Xie)—dishes that showcase the city’s delicate culinary style and are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Lingshan Fengqing Town 灵山风情小镇

Address: Lingshan Scenic Area, Shuangpu Town 双浦镇灵山风景区

Lingshan Fengqing Town is where all your fantasies of poetic Jiangnan scenery come true. It’s home to Hangzhou’s only geological cave—Lingshan Cave—filled with naturally formed strange rocks shaped over thousands of years. Exploring the cave’s cool, winding paths is a perfect way to beat the summer heat.

But the fun doesn’t stop there: you can also go horse riding here, wandering along paths surrounded by greenery and Jiangnan-style pavilions. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, a unique cave adventure, or a fun horse ride, Lingshan Fengqing Town offers a little bit of everything for a relaxing day trip.