[A Must-See Hangzhou Travel Guide: Locals' Secret Tips for Strolling Around West Lake]

First-time visitors to Hangzhou often head straight to West Lake, but simply following the crowds and rushing through the sights would be a disservice to this thousand-year-old scenic spot. This tea-infused guide will unlock the poetic beauty of West Lake. First, I recommend the "Three Pools Mirroring the Moon" scenic area, specifically the "My Heart Understands Yours" pavilion. Here, the art of framing scenery, characteristic of Jiangnan gardens, is taken to its fullest extent. I suggest visiting around 4 pm when the setting sun gilds the stone pagodas, and the dark hills form a natural ink painting within the framed view. Remember to bring a telephoto lens to capture the fleeting beauty of migratory birds skimming over the three pools. Stroll along the Bai Causeway to the Broken Bridge, but don't feel obligated to dwell on the legend of Xu Xian and Bai Suzhen. The true magic lies in the early morning mist: stand on the bridge and gaze at Leifeng Pagoda in the distance, watch the elderly practicing tai chi with red silk ribbons, and see the boats appearing and disappearing in the swirling mist. This is the most vibrant morning melody of West Lake. The sweetgum trees at "Calm Lake Autumn Moon" have become a favorite of photographers, but seasoned visitors prefer the lakeside teahouse. Order a pot of Longjing tea for 68 yuan, and as the moon rises, watch the shimmering ripples on the lake reflect the lights of the Su Causeway. Only then will you understand the ancient saying, "The vast lake is always like a mirror." For a deeper exploration of West Lake's hidden gems, try a traditional wooden boat from the Huagang Guanyu (Flower Harbor Viewing Fish) pier. The boatman will guide you through the winding waterways of Wuguitan (Tortoise Pond), passing Jihong Bridge and Yuhu Bay, revealing scenery that even long-time Hangzhou residents find stunning. While the 300-yuan ticket price is a bit steep, when the sunlight filters through the trees and dances on the lake's surface, you'll understand the meaning of "priceless scenery." Garden enthusiasts shouldn't miss the landscaping artistry of Quyuan Fenghua (Curved Yard Wind Lotus). I recommend entering from the Yue Lake entrance and walking in reverse. From the second floor of Zhanbi Tower, the multi-layered frames created by white walls, black tiles, and maple leaves resemble a slowly unfolding Song Dynasty scroll painting. If you visit on a rainy day, the raindrops dripping from the eaves and the mercury-like droplets on the lotus leaves create a wonderful three-dimensional Jiangnan melody. As for Prince Bay Park, the secret to avoiding crowds is to visit on a working day morning. Walk upstream from the Big Windmill lawn, and encounter a sea of tulips shrouded in morning mist at Pipa Island. It's far more breathtaking than any popular photo spot. In spring and autumn, check the park's picnic reservation service. Enjoying a customized Hangzhou-style tea and snack set under a shower of cherry blossoms is the perfect way to experience the spring of West Lake. Tips: The West Lake Loop Bus connects the main attractions. Consider getting a Hangzhou Tourism Card for discounts. Avoid the afternoon crowds on weekends to truly appreciate the West Lake's charm, which is "always beautiful, whether lightly or heavily adorned."