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On Su Causeway
Leifeng Pagoda
One Corner of the Park
CARVING CHARACTERSGreenery close by
When I moved to Hangzhou, I did not know what to expect, but I do know that I did not expect it to be such a green place! Nature in the form of West lake scenic area, gardens, Xixi wetlands and the National Park are just a short drive/bike ride away. Finn as I am, I am used to having forest on my doorstep (even had when I lived in the capital of Finland), I was really pleased with this aspect of Hangzhou.
Of course, these green areas are very popular with locals and tourists alike, so they can feel a bit crowded at times, but I have managed to find some quiet spots for myself. The locals like to have pick nicks in the parks and who can blame them? On a hot day, the trees shade and the breezes cool, the birds sing and the cikadas call. On a sunny Spring or autumn day, you can enjoy the warmth of the sun, take in the stunning scenery and socialise with your friends and family.
Also, be adviced that there is little really wild nature here, if it is not a park or park area, chances are it is used for tea cultivation (Long Jing tea or Dragon Well tea). Nonetheless, it is relaxing and refreshing for mind, body and spirit. Also, much of the parks are fashioned in Chinese style with bridges, pavillions and ponds. Very pleasing to the eye. Watching Spring arrive in West Lake area, January-March. It was still cold, so I dressed warmly and sometimes brought a thermos flask with hot tea to keep me going, my camera and a book and settled down on a bench (too cold to sit on the ground). I would observe the local fauna (natural and planted) like orange carps, birds, squirrels, ferrets (!) and snakes (!). Later, I would head for a tea house to heat up and line my stomach with snacks and tea.
