Hangzhou Hiking Guide: Tea Mountains & Countryside Trails

Hangzhou is not only famous for West Lake, but the surrounding tea mountains and countryside trails are also worth exploring. The hiking routes here will take you through the lush tea gardens, allowing you to admire the charming mountains and ancient villages, and experiencing the rich natural atmosphere and local charm of Hangzhou.
This guide will help you understand the most beautiful hiking routes in Hangzhou and plan an unforgettable outdoor trip.

Private Hangzhou Day Tour: Remarkable Journey of Serenity and Beauty of Nature Hangzhou Dragon Well Tea Village & Longjing Tea Plantation Day Tour

Top Tea Mountain Hiking Trails in Hangzhou

Longjing Tea Mountain Loop Route
· Route (Loop Route)
Longjing Village - Ten Miles of Tinkling Bells - Meijiawu - Nine Streams and Eighteen Ravines - Longjing Village
· Total length: Approximately 8 kilometers
· Difficulty: Moderate (Some sections have steep slopes and stone steps)
· Time required: About 3 to 4 hours
· Best time: Spring and autumn seasons, especially during the tea-picking season (Tea Picking Season), when the scenery is at its most magnificent.
· Highlights
Ten Miles of Tinkling Bells: At the summit, you can overlook West Lake and the continuous tea mountains. In spring, the tea fields are lush and the tea-picking scene is truly spectacular. The view here is expansive, making it perfect for taking photos and enjoying the natural scenery of Hangzhou.
Nine Streams and Eighteen Ravines: The streams flow gently. In summer, you can play by the streams. In autumn, it's the most beautiful time for red maples. The red maples along the paths are in full bloom, forming a beautiful scenic line.
Longjing Village: Visit the historic Longjing Imperial Tea Garden. Learn about the history and production process of Longjing tea. You can also taste authentic Mingqian Tea (tea picked before the Qingming Festival). Longjing Village is the core area for experiencing Hangzhou's tea culture.
· Tips
Avoid the weekend rush: There are more tourists on weekends. It is recommended to set off in the early morning so that you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the tea mountains in a peaceful environment.
Wear anti-slip shoes: Some sections of the stone steps are quite steep, so it is necessary to wear suitable hiking shoes to ensure safe walking.

Longwu Tea Town Hiking Route
· Route
Longwu Tea Town - Guangming Temple Reservoir - Xishan Forest Park - Hejia Village
· Total length: Approximately 5 kilometers
· Difficulty: Low (suitable for family outings, easy and relaxing)
· Time required: About 2 hours
· Best time: This is a gentle hiking trail that is suitable for travel throughout the year.
· Highlights
Guangming Temple Reservoir: The azure lake water blends beautifully with the tea gardens, presenting a charming scene. It is ideal for taking photos and having picnics. The lake surface is calm, surrounded by tea gardens, giving a sense of tranquility.
Xishan Forest Park: With a high forest coverage rate of 95%, it is an excellent place for summer relaxation. The air here is fresh, and the temperature is over 5? lower than that in the city center. It is an ideal choice for families or those with children to visit.
Hejia Village Market: The weekend market here is very distinctive. You can participate in teapot brewing and experience traditional tofu skin. You can also purchase golden-colored tofu skin as a souvenir to take home.
· Tips
Pet-friendly: The route is suitable for hiking with pets. Some sections require leashing.
Suitable for families and children: There are children's play facilities beside the reservoir, making it an ideal place for family outings.

Longjing Eight Scenery Trail (Ancient Tea Trail & Cultural Hiking)
· Route
Longjing Village - Longjing Eight Scenic Views (Fenghuang Ridge, Crossing Stream Pavilion, Dixin Pond, etc.) - Ancient Tea-Tasting Road - Eighteen Tea Plantations of Imperial Quality - Emperor Qianlong's Ancient Road - Longjing Village
· Total length: Approximately 3 to 5 kilometers
· Difficulty: Short and relaxing, it is perfect for leisure strolls or half-day hikes. It is especially suitable for tourists who want to learn about Hangzhou's tea culture.
· Time required: About 1.5 to 4 hours
· Best time: Spring (tea-picking season) and autumn
· Highlights
Qianlong's "Personal Customization": This was the exclusive route chosen by Emperor Qianlong during his six visits to the south of the Yangtze River. During these four tours, he inscribed poems on "The Eight Scenic Views of Longjing". Along the way, numerous stone carvings with his poems were preserved, and it was hailed as "The Best Scenic Spot in the Lake and Mountains".
Crossing Stream Pavilion: The core landmark of the footpath. It originated from the story where Master Biancai sent Su Dongpo down the mountain. The two of them had a great conversation and before they knew it, they had crossed the Tiger Stream Bridge, breaking the ancient rule that "guests should not be sent beyond the Tiger Stream". Later, a pavilion was built to commemorate this story.
A Cloud: A huge Taihu stone about 3 meters tall, with a smooth and exquisite shape, looks like a cloud floating down to the earth. There are inscriptions by Emperor Qianlong on the stone, which are very impressive.
· Tips
The main road surface is made of stone slabs and steps. The road condition is good, but some sections have moss growing on them. It is recommended to wear shoes that are slip-resistant and comfortable. If you have limited time, this short route is perfect for you. It's ideal for a quick rest during your leisure time.

Lingyin Mountain & Tea Garden
· Route
Around Lingyin Temple, the back mountain of Feilai Peak, and along Tiantzu Road.
· Total length: Approximately 3 to 5 kilometers
· Difficulty: Smooth and relaxing, suitable for families, parents and children, as well as beginners.
· Time required: About 2 to 3 hours
· Best time: The surrounding area of Lingyin Temple is very popular throughout the year.
· Highlights
Rich culture heritage: Lingyin Mountain is not only renowned for its profound Buddhist culture, but also boasts a rich tea culture heritage. Lingyin Temple is adjacent to the surrounding tea plantations, creating a unique landscape where the red walls and yellow tiles blend seamlessly with the lush greenery. This place is perfect for hikers to find a balance between visiting the temple and enjoying tea.
The ancient tea trees in the tea garden: Here, there are not only modern tea plantations but also some old tea trees that have weathered the test of time. They have an ancient and simple appearance, with lush foliage, and have witnessed the historical changes of Lingyin Mountain over thousands of years. They are an excellent subject for photographers to capture the texture of time.
The perfect combination of religious atmosphere and natural scenery: When the eaves and gables of the temple appear intermittently in the greenery of the tea garden, and when the chanting of scriptures blends with the chirping of birds in the mountains, you will feel an unprecedented tranquility. This perfect fusion of religious atmosphere and natural scenery can truly relax and heal the soul.
· Tips
Lingyin Temple has many exits. You can start by visiting the temple, and then choose a route you like to hike around it.

Baoshi Mountain
· Route
Huanglong Cave Metro Station - Huanglong Tucui - Chushan Platform - Baopu Temple - Toad Peak - Baochu Pagoda - Beishan Street - Huanglong Cave
· Total length: Approximately 3 kilometers
· Difficulty: Smooth and relaxing
· Time required: About 1.5 to 2.5 hours
· Best time: Can be used as a regular route for relaxation and leisure.
· Highlights
Huanglong Cave: As the classic starting point for the gemstone mountain hiking, this place is not only one of the "New Fifteen Scenic Spots of West Lake", namely "Huanglong Spouting Green Water", but also a mysterious destination full of the charm of traditional Chinese gardens. Beyond the cave entrance, there are rows of lush green bamboos and the stream is flowing gently. A delicate Jiangnan courtyard is ingeniously integrated with the mountain and forest scenery.
Baopu Temple: This thousand-year-old Taoist temple, hidden among the lush green pines and cypresses, was the place where the renowned Taoist scholar and alchemist Ge Hong once built a residence for his alchemical experiments. It is filled with the mysterious cultural atmosphere of Taoism.
Baochu Tower: This slender ancient tower standing on the top of Baoshi Mountain overlooks Leifeng Tower across the lake. It is one of the landmark buildings of the West Lake and also a symbol of Hangzhou.
· Tips
The transportation is extremely convenient. The Metro Line 3 can directly reach Huanglong Cave Station. Once you exit the station, you will reach the mountain entrance, allowing you to smoothly transition from the city to the mountains. It is the best shortcut to experience the unique charm of "half mountains, half city" in Hangzhou.

Beautiful Rural Trails in Hangzhou

Qingshan Lake Circular Walkway
· Key route
Subway Line 16 "Baibuli Station" - Walk to the entrance of the greenway - Circular Lake Greenway - Water Forest (requires admission ticket) - Return by the original route or exit at "Qingshanhu Station"
· Total length: Approximately 31 kilometers (Key section: 8 - 10 kilometers)
· Difficulty: The road surface is smooth with very little undulation.
· Time required: About 6 to 8 hours (Key section: 2 - 4 hours)
· Best time: Spring (April - May) and autumn (September - November)
· Highlights
Water Forest: This is the "face" of Changshan Lake. Tens of thousands of cypress trees are rooted in the water. In spring and summer, it takes on a "matcha green" color, while in autumn and winter, it turns "red-brown". Walking on the floating bridge walkway, it feels as if you have entered a fairy tale world.
Half mountain, half water: The greenway follows the mountains and the water, with one side being a clear lake and the other side being continuous mountains. The view is extremely expansive.
Professional greenway: The road surface is made of red asphalt, with clear signs. Along the way, there are several stops (restrooms, rest areas).
· Tips
Circular Lake Greenway: Free admission.
Water Forest Scenic Area: Admission fee 40 yuan per person.
Sun protection and mosquito prevention: There are many mosquitoes in the lake area. Make sure to carry mosquito repellent; on sunny days, the lake surface reflects a lot of light, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun and seek shade.

Yunqi Bamboo Path Deep Trekking
· Route
Yunqi Bamboo Path Scenic Area - Wuyun Mountain - Zhenji Temple - Three Divisions - Longjing Village / Meijiawu
· Total length: Approximately 8 -10 kilometers
· Difficulty: Intermediate level, with ascending sections (Wuyun Mountain has an altitude of 344 meters), but the slope is relatively gentle. The road conditions are mostly stone steps and dirt roads.
· Time required: About 3 to 5 hours 
· Best time: April to May (when young shoots break through the soil and new greenery covers the mountains) and October to November (when the sky is clear and crisp in autumn, and ancient trees turn red with their leaves).
· Highlights
The bamboo forest in the same style as in "The Hidden Dragon": The bamboo grove in the scenic area is lush and towering. The sunlight filters through the bamboo leaves, casting a patchwork of shadows. Especially the window frame composition near "Huilong Pavilion" is a classic spot for taking photos in the movie.
Ancient trees and ancient temples: Along the way, there are over a thousand-year-old maple trees with red leaves like fire in autumn; climbing to the top of Wuyun Mountain allows you to visit the ruins of Zhenji Temple (also known as the God of Wealth Temple), and there is a 1,400-year-old ancient ginkgo tree in front of the temple.
The solitary tree: On the opposite side of the scenic area (across the road), there is a solitary large tree. It is a popular photography spot.
· Tips
Ticket: Admission fee for Yunqi Bamboo Path Scenic Area is 8 yuan (the park annual pass is free).
Local cuisine: After the hike, we recommend trying the authentic "Longjing Shrimp" and "Farmhouse Chicken Soup" at the end station of Meijiuhu or Longjing Village.
Transportation guide: Take Bus No. 103, 121, 1314 or 324M and get off at "Yunqi Zhudian" stop. / Get off at "Shuichengqiao" or "Fenghua West Road" station of Subway Line 4. You will need to transfer to a bus or take a taxi.

Xixi Wetland
· Route One: Free Classic Cultural Heritage Tour (Most Suitable for the General Public)
China Wetland Museum - Lianhua Bay Birdwatching Area - Green Embankment - Hezhu Street - Jiangcun Market - Gaozhuang
· Total length: Approximately 5 - 6 kilometers
· Difficulty: Extremely low, all the way on flat roads, no obstacles
· Time required: About 3 to 4 hours 
· Best time: Suitable throughout the year. In spring (March to May), there is a sea of tulips on the Green Embankment; in autumn (November to December), one can enjoy the reeds.
· Highlights
China Wetland Museum: The only national-level wetland museum in China. It is the top choice for parents to educate their children. The building itself is also very aesthetically pleasing.
Green Embankment: The "face" of Xixi Wetland. In spring, it transforms into a sea of tulips; otherwise, it features vast lawns and aquatic gardens, making it an ideal spot for taking photos.
Gaozhuang: The villa of the minister Gao Shiqi during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty is a typical Jiangnan garden and was also one of the filming locations for the movie "Bride Under the Same Sky".
Hezhu Street & Jiangcun Market: This is a popular photo spot for "Xixi and Leaving Behind" and there are many local delicacies (such as Jiangcun pastries) here. However, some restaurants have relatively high prices. It is recommended to replenish supplies here.
· Tips
Transportation: Take Metro Line 3 to Dongyue Station (exit B), and it's just a short walk to the Wetland Museum; or take Line 19 to Xixi Wetland North Station (exit E2), and enter from the north gate.
Mosquito prevention: The wetland has abundant water systems, especially in spring, summer and autumn. Make sure to bring mosquito repellent.

· Route Two: Fee Zone Deep Ecological Line (Core Core Area)
Zhoujia Village Entrance - Bo'an - Yanshui Yuzhuang - Shentankou - Hezhu Street (outside the toll area)
· Total length: Approximately 6 - 8 kilometers
· Difficulty: Moderate difficulty. The journey is long and requires physical effort.
· Time required: About 4 to 5 hours 
· Best time: 
April: It's the Flower Festival, so there will be a lot of flowers blooming on the Green Embankment and in the wetlands.
May: You can go to Xialong Beach to pick cherries (depending on their ripeness).
November - December: It's the Reed Festival. In late autumn, the reed marshes around the Autumn Snow Temple are very spectacular.
· Highlights
Shentankou: The core area of Xixi Scenic Area, with the deepest water body. Both banks are home to century-old camphor trees. This is the location where the famous scene from the movie "Bride or No Bride" was shot.
Yanshui Yuzhuang: This place recreates the living scenes of the original residents of Xixi, allowing visitors to experience the ethereal beauty of the "three kinds of smoke" - the willow smoke, the cloud smoke, and the cooking smoke.
Zhoujia Village: The ancient architectural complex at the entrance is very grand and is perfect for taking photos in an ancient style.
· Tips
Ticket: 80 yuan per person (half-day ticket or full-day ticket available for purchase).
Transportation: Take Subway Line 3 to Xixi Wetland South Station. Then transfer to a bus or walk to the entrance of Zhoujia Village.
Boat tour: The area within the charging zone is quite large. If you get tired while walking, you can take an electric boat (60 yuan per person, circular route) or a rowing boat (100 yuan per hour per boat, with a capacity of 6 people) at the pier.

Qiandao Lake
· Route One: Muxin Valley Hiking
Shilingjiao Village (Starting Point) - Reservoir Dam - Duskwood Forest (Essential Section) - Maple Fragrance Ancient Road - Destination
· Total length: Approximately 6 kilometers
· Difficulty: Novice level, climbing approximately 130 meters
· Time required: About 2 to 4 hours 
· Best time: Suitable throughout the year. The vegetation is at its greenest from April to June. From November to December, the cypress and maple leaves turn red, which is the best time for viewing.
· Highlights
Duskwood Forest: On both sides are towering sequoias and ferns. The undergrowth is filled with dappled light and shadow, giving it a natural filter-like effect.
Water play experience: Along the way, there are gentle streams and wooden-pole paths, making it very cool in summer.
· Tips
The signal in the mountains is weak. Please make sure to download the route map in advance.
The road surface is muddy and slippery on rainy days. It is not recommended to go up the mountain.

· Route Two: Qiandao Lake National Mountain Climbing and Fitness Trail
The northern mountain area (main route with 8 entrances and exits), common walking routes include the section from Yulan Garden to Meidulanting
· Total length: Approximately 14.5 kilometers
· Difficulty: The difficulty level is moderate. The highest altitude is 280 meters. This is a professionally designed national hiking trail with good road conditions and complete facilities, making it suitable for daily exercise.
· Time required: About 4 to 5 hours 
· Best time: In the early morning or in the morning hours, the air is the freshest.
· Highlights
Ecological construction method: Utilizing log steps and imitation wooden walkways, which have a high degree of integration with the natural environment.
Smart Tour Guide: Along the way, there are QR codes for navigation and a legal story corridor. You can learn more knowledge as you walk.
· Tips
The trail connects multiple communities and is well-connected. You can simply locate it by entering "Qiandao Lake National Mountain Climbing and Fitness Trail xx Entrance" in the taxi.

Wuzhen Ancient Town Hiking
· Route
Visitor Center - Muxin Art Museum - Natural Dye Workshop - Celebration Hall - Zhaoming Academy - Wuzhen Post Office - Water Stage - Bridge-within-a-Bridge - White Lotus Pagoda - Temple of the Matchmaker - Water Market
· Total length: Approximately 4 -5 kilometers
· Difficulty: The difficulty level is low. The entire route is paved with stone slabs and the terrain is flat. It is suitable for people of all ages.
· Time required: It takes about half a day to one full day. If you just want a cursory look, it will take approximately 3 to 4 hours; if you want to take your time, take a boat ride and enjoy the night view, it is recommended to reserve a whole day. 
· Best time: We highly recommend visiting during the late afternoon or night. This is the most beautiful time of the day in Wuzhen.
· Highlights
Beautiful night scenery and rowing boats: This is the most remarkable feature of Wuzhen. In the evening, the lights on both banks gradually come on, reflecting in the river like a dreamy scene. Taking a rowing boat and traveling through the light and shadow, you can experience the ultimate romance of "rowing on the blue waves, people wandering in the painting".
Muxin Art Museum: Designed by the disciple of Ieoh Ming Pei, the minimalist geometric building complements the reflection on the water surface, making it a sacred place for art enthusiasts.
Natural Dye Workshop: The huge blue printed fabric fluttering in the wind creates a very spectacular scene, making it an ideal location for shooting ethnic-themed films.
· Tips
Ticket:
West Quay Scenic Area: ¥150 per person
East Quay Scenic Area: ¥110 per person
East and West Quay Combined Ticket: ¥190 per person
Wearing: The entire area within the scenic spot is paved with uneven cobblestone paths. Please make sure to wear comfortable and slip-resistant flat shoes or sports shoes.
Accommodation: We recommend staying in a guesthouse located within the West Gate scenic area. Although the price is a bit higher, there are numerous benefits: you can enjoy a peaceful ancient town free from tourist disturbances in the early morning (before 9 o'clock) and at night (after 21:30); you can enter and exit the scenic area multiple times; and you can also take the scenic area tour bus for free.

Post-Hike Relaxation

West Lake Boat Tour
The time spent on the cruise ship allows you to temporarily escape the fatigue of hiking and enjoy the beauty of the gentle breeze on the lake and the surrounding scenery. Especially in the evening or at night, the scenery of West Lake is particularly charming. The lights on the lake and the ancient buildings around are reflected in the water, as if you have entered a fairyland on earth.
Recommended Piers:
Telephone: 0571-87986651
· Hubin Park No. 2 Pier
Subway Line 1, Exit C of Longxiangqiao Station leads directly here. This place often has luxury boats stopping by, and it is also one of the main docks for night tours.
Ticket price: Night tours usually start at 50 yuan per person. Day tours depend on the type of the boat.
· Huagang Fish Viewing Pier
Located to the east of the first bridge of the Su Causeway, this is the main pier for foreign affairs cruise ships in Zhejiang. The route passes through the Su Causeway and Huagang Park, with a relatively peaceful environment. Surrounding it are Huagang Fish Viewing Park and Taiziwan Park.
Ticket price: 50 yuan per person.

Traditional Tea House Experience
Around West Lake, there are many historic tea houses. These tea houses not only offer tourists top-notch tea products, but also provide a serene environment where you can immerse yourself in the art of tea ceremony. Sit down in the tea house and enjoy the pleasure of tasting tea, feeling that sense of calm and tranquility. The aroma, color and taste of each cup of tea are all full of unique charm. Gradually, you will be influenced by this peaceful atmosphere, and your body and mind will be relaxed and restored.
Recommended Tea Houses:
· Green Vine Tea House
This is a garden-style tea house renovated from a century-old residence. The environment is serene, with each step revealing a new scene.
Address: No. 7, Zhao Gongdi, Xihu District (near Quyuan Fenghe)
Telephone: 0571-13588743882
Operating hours: 10:00 - 21:00
· Guo Zhuang Tea Room
Renowned as "the crown of classical gardens in West Lake", drinking tea here is an ultimate elegant experience. The tea room is located within the garden and has a platform facing the lake, allowing you to enjoy the exquisite garden scenery and lake view while sipping tea. 
Address: No. 28, Yang Gong Di, Xihu District
Telephone: 0571-87986026
Operating hours: 08:30 - 17:00

Massage and Spa
Through a comfortable full-body massage or foot massage, not only can the tired body be relaxed, but also the blood circulation can be improved and physical strength restored. Especially in the tea culture atmosphere of Hangzhou, many SPA centers have also incorporated tea aroma therapy, making the relaxation experience more culturally rich.
Recommended massage parlors:
· Hangzhou Xizi Lake Four Seasons Hotel The SPA
Combining traditional Chinese elements with Western design concepts, it features 9 VIP aromatherapy rooms, with the largest one measuring 56 square meters, resembling the private palaces of ancient emperors.
Address: No. 5, Lingyin Road, Xihu District
Telephone: 0571-88298888
Reference price: Starting from ¥1800
· CHI Spa (within Anama Hotel)
Located within the Anama Hotel in Fayun Lane, it is regarded as the pinnacle of SPA in Hangzhou. It uses yellow jade scraping boards for meridian unblocking, and the technicians are highly professional, providing explanations on health preservation knowledge.
Address: No. 22, Fayun Lane, Xihu District, Anama Hotel
Telephone: 0571-87329999
Reference price: ¥880 per 90 minutes

Farmhouse Cuisine Food Guide
Along the hiking trail, there are usually many small rural restaurants. If you need to replenish your energy during the hike, don't miss out on these rural dishes.

Longjing Tea Fragrant Chicken
---The slow-cooking art that infuses the soul with the aroma of tea
· Flavor: The tea aroma is rich, the meat is tender and falls off the bone, and every bite is a symphony of the mountains and the tea soup.
· Preparation: Use free-range Spring Chicken from the mountains. The meat is firm and rich in gelatin. During the cooking process, the whole chicken should be placed in a clay pot and simmer with top-quality pre-Qingming Longjing tea for more than two hours. The tea polyphenols in Longjing tea can eliminate the fishy smell, reduce greasiness, and penetrate the meat texture.

Bamboo Shoot and Pork Belly Stew
---The golden ratio of fresh spring fragrance and rich aroma
· Flavor: The crispness and tenderness of the bamboo shoots are perfectly combined with the fatiness of the pork. Taking a bite, you can not only taste the refreshing taste of the bamboo shoots but also experience the richness of the meat. This dish is highly popular due to its authentic rural flavor and healthy ingredients.
· Preparation: Select the freshest spring bamboo shoot tips of the season, peel them and cut them into sections, then cook them together with the lean and fatty pork. After a long period of simmering over low heat, the fat of the pork is fully absorbed by the bamboo shoots.

Farmhouse Free-Range Chicken Soup
---A precious amber gift from the essence of the mountains and fields
· Flavor: The soup has a clear color and a delicious taste. Compared to ordinary chicken available on the market, the meat of free-range chicken is firmer and the soup flavor is more intense.
· Preparation: The main ingredient is free-range chicken. It is simmered for several hours to extract the essence of the chicken, and then combined with an appropriate amount of spices and wild vegetables for a rich and nutritious soup.

Longjing Shrimp
---The "Double Mastery" performance in the tea village version
· Flavor: The tea not only serves as an embellishment, but also releases a fresh orchid fragrance in the mouth, with a refreshing and elegant taste. It truly embodies the "four wonders of color, aroma, shape and taste".
· Preparation: Fresh river shrimp are used, and the shrimp meat is carefully removed by hand. It is crystal clear and exquisite. The version from the tea village pays more attention to the principle of "immediate picking and immediate stir-frying", directly adding the freshly picked pre-Qingming Longjing buds (young buds of Longjing tea) to the dish. After quick stir-frying at high temperature, the elasticity and juiciness of the shrimp meat perfectly blend with the bean aroma of the tea.

Stream Fish
---The ultimate delicacy in simple cooking
· Flavor: The fish meat is as white as snow, with a tender and smooth texture. The soup is extremely delicious. It is rich in protein and has a faint aquatic plant aroma.
· Preparation: The traditional rural method is usually very simple, without adding too many seasonings. Only ginger and scallions are used to remove the fishy smell. It can be steamed or boiled in soup. This method retains the original flavor of the fish meat to the greatest extent.

Tea Garden Coffee, Longjing Tea, and Tea Snacks
---The slow-paced life of the new Chinese-style countryside
Tea Garden Coffee is an innovative drink that combines coffee and tea. It is very popular in tea gardens in Hangzhou. Its uniqueness lies in the blending of Longjing Tea with coffee beans, which allows the tea aroma and coffee aroma to complement each other, resulting in a soft yet rich and layered taste. At the same time, the tea garden also offers various tea snacks, such as tea cakes and tea pastries, which have a soft texture and pair well with the tea.

Hiking Gear Checklist

Essential Gears
1. Anti-slip Hiking Shoes
It is recommended to choose shoes with good breathability and high comfort level, so as to avoid feeling tired after wearing them for a long time.
2. Drinking Water
If the hiking route is long, it is recommended to bring more water and choose leak-proof water bottles to prevent liquid leakage. Remember to replenish water regularly to avoid dehydration.
3. High-energy Snacks
During a long hiking trip, it is crucial to replenish energy at the right time. High-energy snacks such as nuts and beef jerky are rich in protein and fat, which not only help to quickly restore physical strength but also satisfy the appetite.
4. Sun Protection Hat
A wide-brimmed sun hat not only shields the face and neck from the sun's rays and protects them from UV damage, but also enhances comfort and prevents discomfort caused by overheating. It is best to choose a hat made of breathable material to ensure dryness during long hikes.
5. Mosquito Repellent
Carrying mosquito repellent can effectively prevent mosquito infestations, avoiding the risk of contracting diseases or experiencing allergic reactions.
6. Rain Gear
When hiking in the mountains, weather changes are difficult to predict. It is a wise choice to carry a lightweight waterproof coat or rain jacket.
7. First Aid Kit
It includes basic first-aid supplies such as band-aids, disinfectant wipes, bandages, and tourniquets, which can provide timely assistance in case of minor injuries.

Recommended Gears
1. Trekking Poles
For hiking routes that require long walks, hiking sticks not only help save effort but also make the steps more stable.
2. Knee Pads
If the hiking route has many downhill sections, knee pads can effectively protect the knee joints from excessive pressure and injury.
3. Offline Maps
Some hiking routes may pass through areas with weak signals, especially in mountainous or forested regions. The GPS signal of mobile phones may be unstable, making it impossible to obtain real-time route information. To avoid getting lost or missing the correct path, it is recommended to download offline maps in advance.
4. Multitool Knife
Suitable for various daily repairs or for use in emergencies, carry a small but versatile knife that can handle unexpected situations.

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Important Tips

1. Ask for Prices in Advance at Scenic Area Farmhouses to Avoid Overcharging
Most restaurants near popular tourist attractions tend to have higher prices due to the large number of tourists. Choosing some less popular small restaurants might offer more authentic flavors and more reasonable prices.

2. Avoid Weekends During Tea Picking Season
During the annual spring tea-picking season, especially in areas like Longjing Village where there are tea plantations, there are a large number of tourists and tea pickers, making the tea plantations very lively. If you want to better enjoy the fun of tea-picking or the tranquility of the tea gardens, it is best to avoid weekends and holidays and choose to go on a weekday when there are fewer people.

3. Check Parking Availability for Self-Driving Trips to Avoid Traffic Congestion
During holidays and weekends, a large number of tourists drive there by themselves, often resulting in parking difficulties and traffic congestion. To avoid wasting time on the road for a long time, it is recommended to check the locations and availability of parking lots in advance and plan the parking strategy accordingly.

4. Be Cautious on Rainy Days!
In many scenic spots of Hangzhou, such as the West Lake and Longjing Village, there are quite a few flagstone paths. These paths become extremely slippery after rain, increasing the risk of slipping while walking. Especially for elderly tourists or those with health issues, the safety risk is higher. Therefore, when traveling during rainy days, be sure to walk carefully. If the itinerary is tight, it is recommended to postpone the trip by 1-2 days after the rain.

5. Keep an Eye on the Navigation Path
There are numerous and intricate routes for visiting scenic spots and tea plantations in Hangzhou, especially in rural areas such as Longjing Village. There are numerous intersections with unclear signs. When hiking or driving, always keep an eye on the real-time route displayed on the navigation app to avoid missing turning points or going in the wrong direction.

6. Do Not Pick Tea Leaves from Private Tea Gardens
In the tea gardens of Hangzhou, many tea plants are located in privately contracted areas. It is illegal to pick tea leaves without permission and such actions may result in fines or other legal consequences. If you are interested in experiencing the tea-picking activity, it is recommended that you choose a reputable tea plantation and participate in the tea-picking experience through local tea culture events.

7. Avoid Using Fire Outdoors
The tea gardens and their surrounding natural environment are invaluable; please respect the local ecosystem and refrain from damaging the vegetation. In tea gardens or natural scenic areas, open-air fires pose a significant fire hazard—particularly during the dry season—so please strictly adhere to all local fire safety regulations.

Hangzhou Day Trip from Shanghai: High-Speed Train, West Lake Tea Path, and Beautiful Hiking Trails Shanghai to Hangzhou Day Trip by High-Speed Train: Dragon Well Tea Plantation and Cultural Tour

The hiking routes in Hangzhou are not only a physical workout, but also a spiritual practice. Breathing in the fresh air among the tea mountains, touching the thousand-year history on the ancient paths, and experiencing the daily life in the countryside - here there is no urban hustle and bustle, only the tranquility of the mountains and the authenticity of life. Collect this guide, pick a fine weekend, and embark on a spontaneous hiking trip!