hangzhou
Private Boat Tour on the West Lake
Starting with the private boat tour on West Lake, it was everything I hoped it would be. There’s something almost magical about drifting along the water, surrounded by gentle hills, delicate willow trees, and centuries-old pagodas. With no crowds or noise, it felt like I had the entire lake to myself.
Drinking Tea and Playing Cards in a Private Room on the Tea Fields
I also visited Hangzhou’s famous tea fields for a completely different experience. I spent the afternoon in a private room surrounded by endless rows of green tea plants. Sitting there, with a warm cup of fresh Longjing tea and a deck of cards, it was that perfect mix of relaxation and culture. The earthy aroma of the tea, the silence of the tea fields, and the view from that cozy room made me feel like I was in a hidden world, away from everything.
Stay at AMANFAYUN
Amanfayun, a secluded retreat near Hangzhou’s West Lake, feels like a timeless village hidden in bamboo groves, ancient tea fields, and misty hills. Wandering its moss-covered cobblestone paths, you pass historic temples, stone cottages, and serene courtyards. My first experience here was truly remarkable, blending Aman’s renowned cultural immersion with thoughtful personal touches. Each villa feels like stepping into a historic Chinese film, and the service is uniquely personal—guests are even encouraged to add their WeChat for 24/7 assistance. When they noticed we were celebrating a birthday, they promptly prepared pastries and a cake, creating a heartfelt welcome. The spa was unforgettable, starting with a soak in a bamboo bath followed by a customized massage, making Amanfayun a genuinely immersive escape into tranquility and cultural richness.
