A Hangzhou Dream by the West Lake

A trip to Hangzhou always includes a visit to the shimmering West Lake. A thousand years of poetry and paintings have imbued every inch of this picturesque landscape. This time, I stayed at a hotel on the shores of West Lake, where the design draws inspiration from the "Ten Scenes of West Lake," artfully blending the cultural heritage of Jiangnan with contemporary art to create a serene and elegant tapestry. From the executive lounge on the 26th floor, I watched as the city lights and the West Lake merged in the twilight. The interplay of light and shadow evoked the misty rain of West Lake. As dusk deepened, it felt like watching a hazy, dreamlike film. Stepping into the guest room, I was greeted by warm-toned wallpaper complemented by seasonal flower arrangements and striking neo-Chinese wall designs. Inspired by the "Orioles Singing in the Willows," the room features butterfly motifs from the Butterfly Lovers legend, adding a touch of Jiangnan romance. The designer's ingenuity is evident in every detail, from the flower-and-bird paintings and the glazed lamps to the curves of the full-length mirror. I enjoyed the buffet dinner downstairs, and to my delight, they even had Guizhou sour soup hot pot. Paired with tender, freshly sliced beef and a variety of flavorful mushrooms, it was a delicious treat. The hotel's location is also excellent. Situated near the Grand Canal, it's close to the Wulin Square business district and West Lake Cultural Square. West Lake is only about a 10-minute drive away, and attractions like Lingyin Temple, Leifeng Pagoda, and Xixi Wetland are also within easy reach.