A large, three million inhabitants city that grew around the shores of the West Lake, has much more appeal than the impersonal and hyper-commercialised Shanghai. It is cleaner, quieter, better organised. The lake receives a reputation of a perfect one, but this is so exaggerated! There is not much to see around the lake and the islands on it, apart from a few moderately attractive temples and residences of former dignitaries. The boatsmen hunting for tourists ask standard prices ranging from ¥80 to ¥120 for one hour ride on the lake. So if you are a group of four, then it might made sense. Otherwise, the larger state-owned vessels charge ¥45 for the transfer to one of the islands and back. The price also includes the alleged fee to the sights of the Island, but there is not anyone checking any tickets. However overadvertised Hangzhou is with regard to its sights, etc, the lake definitely has a cooling effect and light breeze, lowering the temperature. [edit text][editors]
