With its enchanting willow-lined shores, pagoda-dotted hills, and UNESCO-listed scenery, Hangzhou’s West Lake (西湖) has inspired poets and emperors for centuries. Today, it remains one of China’s most coveted destinations – and choosing the right hotel can elevate your experience from memorable to magical.
This curated guide showcases the best hotels around West Lake, spanning:
✔ Lakeside 5-star palaces with private boat docks
✔ Boutique heritage properties in restored Ming-era villas
✔ Modern design hotels with avant-garde art
✔ Hidden tea village retreats minutes from the water
Whether you seek honeymoon romance, family-friendly convenience, or a business-leisure hybrid, these picks deliver authentic Hangzhou charm with world-class hospitality.
1. Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou – The Ultimate Lakeside Sanctuary
Why Stay Here?
The undisputed queen of West Lake hotels, this low-rise garden estate designed by architect Bill Bensley blends Song Dynasty aesthetics with contemporary luxury across 78 rooms and villas.
Key Features
- Private boat pier for exclusive West Lake cruises
- Michelin-starred Jin Sha restaurant (try the Dongpo pork)
- Tea master classes in the 800-year-old Jingci Temple next door
- Lotus-view pools surrounded by landscaped courtyards
Best For
Honeymooners | Culture seekers | Luxury purists
Room Rate: ¥3,500+/night
2. Banyan Tree Hangzhou – Romantic Water Villas
Why Stay Here?
This all-villa sanctuary on the lake’s quieter western shore offers unparalleled privacy, with each residence featuring:
- Private plunge pools
- Traditional sloping tile roofs
- Daybeds overlooking lotus ponds
Unique Experiences
- “Floating Breakfast” served in your villa’s pool
- Sunset champagne cruise on a replica imperial barge
- Guided morning Tai Chi by the water
Best For
Couples | Anniversary trips | Instagrammable moments
Room Rate: ¥2,800+/night
3. Amanfayun – A Living Ancient Village
Why Stay Here?
More than a hotel, Aman’s 47 restored courtyard houses form a functioning 1,200-year-old village near Lingyin Temple, where:
- Stone paths wind past Buddhist shrines
- Rooms lack TVs but have heated stone floors
- Morning temple visits include monk-led meditation
Don’t Miss
- Steam House breakfast with Hangzhou’s best xiaolongbao
- Tea-picking experiences in nearby Longjing plantations
Best For
Spiritual retreats | Digital detox | History lovers
Room Rate: ¥4,200+/night
4. The Azure Qiantang – Lakeside Modern Art Oasis
Why Stay Here?
Hangzhou’s first Design Hotels™ member wows with:
- Floating glass walkways over reflecting pools
- Rotating contemporary art exhibitions
- Rooftop infinity pool with West Lake panoramas
Design Highlights
- Room 360° – A circular suite with rotating bed
- Library Lounge with 10,000 curated books
Best For
Art enthusiasts | Design fans | Young creatives
Room Rate: ¥1,600+/night
5. Hyatt Regency Hangzhou – Family-Friendly Convenience
Why Stay Here?
Located on Nanshan Road’s dining/shopping strip, this reliable choice offers:
- Connecting family rooms with bunk beds
- Kids’ cooking classes making beggar’s chicken
- Stroller rentals for lakeside walks
Practical Perks
- 5-minute walk to Leifeng Pagoda
- Free bicycles to explore the Southern Song Dynasty ruins
Best For
Families | First-time visitors | Business travelers
Room Rate: ¥1,200+/night
Comparison Table: West Lake Hotels at a Glance
| Hotel | Vibe | Best Feature | Starting Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Four Seasons | Imperial luxury | Private boat access | ¥3,500 |
| Banyan Tree | Romantic seclusion | Pool villas | ¥2,800 |
| Amanfayun | Ancient Zen | Temple link | ¥4,200 |
| Azure Qiantang | Contemporary art | Rotating suite | ¥1,600 |
| Hyatt Regency | Family hub | Kid programs | ¥1,200 |
Booking Tips for West Lake Stays
- Avoid October – National Day crowds overwhelm the lake area
- Request Lake-View Rooms – Many hotels charge 20-30% more
- Combine with Tea Plantations – Stay 2 nights lakeside + 1 night in Longjing
- Use Amex FHR – Benefits like upgrades at Four Seasons/Banyan Tree
