[Hangzhou Jiuyaoge Hidden Hiking Guide]

- Santai Mountain > Yuhu Bay > Taiziwan > Jiuyaoge, a 5 km route offering panoramic views of West Lake in 2-3 hours! Route Overview Starting Point: Santai Mountain (navigate to "Santai Mountain" or "Santai Mountain Road") Via: Yuhu Bay, Taiziwan Park End Point: Jiuyaoge (best spot for West Lake panorama) Total Distance: about 5 km | Duration: 2-3 hours (including sightseeing) Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Beginner-friendly, suitable for families/seniors Detailed Route 1️⃣ Starting from Santai Mountain Follow the mountain steps or gentle slope uphill, surrounded by green shade and fresh air. Summit view: First glimpse of West Lake panorama, Leifeng Pagoda and Santai Mountain in view, recommended 10-minute photo stop. 2️⃣ Heading to Yuhu Bay Follow signs downhill to Yuhu Bay, where the mirror-like lake surface and Jihong Bridge create a perfect Jiangnan watertown atmosphere. 3️⃣ Through Taiziwan Park Walk along the lake to Taiziwan Park, famous for spring cherry blossoms and autumn red leaves, currently in tulip season (March). Tip: Visit the Zhang Taiyan Memorial Hall en route for some cultural experience. 4️⃣ Climbing to Jiuyaoge Take the walking trail from Tingtao Residence/Shicui Pavilion in Taiziwan, reaching Jiuyaoge in 15-20 minutes. Must-take photos at observation deck: 360° view of West Lake's "Two Causeways Three Islands," Leifeng Pagoda and City God Pavilion in one frame, plus Qiantang River views. Practical Information Best Time: Spring and fall (March-May/September-November), avoid weekend crowds; sunrise/sunset views are best in early morning or evening. Transportation: Bus: Take Bus 4 or 808 to "Su Causeway" station, walk to Taiziwan Park. Driving: Navigate to "Santai Mountain Road," parking lot nearby. Admission: Free (Jiuyaoge teahouse charges fees, observation deck is free). Equipment: Non-slip shoes, light backpack, drinking water (prices are higher at the summit). Highlights ✅ Santai Mountain: Elevated views of West Lake's mountain ranges. ✅ Yuhu Bay: Jihong Bridge + serene lake views, cinematic shots everywhere. ✅ Taiziwan Park: Hangzhou's best flower viewing spot, featuring cherry blossoms/tulips/red leaves in different seasons. ✅ Jiuyaoge: Hidden gem for West Lake views, unbeatable 45° panoramic shots. Additional Tips Family Activities: Collect pine cones and acorns along the way, family rooms available at Jiuyaoge teahouse. Descent Route: Recommended via Jingci Temple for plum blossoms (fall/winter) or Nanping Mountain trail for sunset views. Hidden Feature: Jiuyao Mountain cliff carvings (Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period relics), requires careful searching. 💡Tip: If time allows, extend your trip to Nanshan Road for food, finish with water shield soup and victory cake! 🌿✨