One-day Hangzhou whirlwind tour: An off-the-beaten-track itinerary that's simply amazing!

Who says Hangzhou is just about West Lake and the crowds? I'm totally in love with this less-traveled route! In just one day, you can visit a temple for blessings, explore tea plantations, wander through old streets, and savor incredibly rich crab roe noodles 🍜. Save this now! 👇 ⛰️ First stop: North Peak & The No. 1 Caishen Temple in the World Take the cable car up the mountain early in the morning 🚠 (a 30-minute hike is also an option). Reach the summit and worship Caishen, the God of Wealth. The temple is incredibly popular! Remember to get a fortune stick 🔖. Overlook the entire West Lake; the stunning view will instantly cure any morning sleepiness ～ 🍃 Second stop: Longjing Village Head straight down the mountain to Longjing Village, where the lush greenery is a feast for the eyes! Check in at the popular tea plantations; every photo you take will look like it belongs in a dreamy forest photoshoot 📸. Enjoy a cup of pre-Qingming Longjing tea at a roadside teahouse; the fragrant aroma and sweet aftertaste are simply divine 💚. 🏡 Third stop: Dama Lane + Shiwu Kui Lane Experience the authentic local life of old Hangzhou here! Enjoy spring onion pancakes and deep-fried dough sticks at Dama Lane 🍳. The retro architecture of Shiwu Kui Lane is incredibly photogenic, and you might even encounter some sunbathing cats 🐱. 🦀 Dinner: Hefang Street The bursting crab roe noodles are a must-try! The golden, glistening oil will make your mouth water 😭. Pair it with drunken crab and ginger tea for an umami explosion that's finger-licking good ✨. 🌙 Night Stroll: Hefang Street Take a post-dinner stroll through the old street; the lit lanterns create a magical atmosphere 🏮. We recommend buying some lotus root starch and sweet-scented osmanthus cake as souvenirs ～ Tips: ▫️ Wear comfortable shoes! Be prepared for a 20,000-step day. ▫️ The cable car to Caishen Temple opens at 8:00 am. Arrive early to avoid queues. ▫️ You can experience tea picking in Longjing Village (best time is around the Qingming Festival).