Best Sunset Spots in Hangzhou

Sunset is one of the best times to experience West Lake. The water turns golden, the pagodas glow, and the city slows down. Whether you want a panoramic view, a quiet bench, or a cocktail with a view, this guide covers the best sunset spots in Hangzhou.

Top Sunset Viewpoints

1. Leifeng Pagoda

The most famous sunset spot in Hangzhou. The pagoda is silhouetted against the setting sun and reflected in the lake.

Best time: 45 minutes before sunset.

Entry: ¥40 to enter the pagoda; the view from outside is also excellent.

2. Santan Yingyue (Three Pools Mirroring the Moon)

Take a boat to this island in West Lake to see the pagodas framed by sunset light.

Best time: Late afternoon boat trip.

3. Gushan Island

Walk to the western edge of Gushan for views back toward the city and Leifeng Pagoda.

Best time: Clear evenings.

4. Chenghuang Pavilion (City God Pavilion)

A hilltop pavilion overlooking West Lake and the old city.

Best time: 30 minutes before sunset.

Entry: Small fee.

5. Nanshan Road Lakeside

A pleasant promenade with benches and cafes.

Best for: A relaxed evening walk.

6. Rooftop Bars Near West Lake

Several hotels and bars offer sunset cocktails with lake views.

Best for: Couples, luxury travelers.

7. Leifeng Pagoda Viewpoint from Su Causeway

A free alternative to entering the pagoda. The view across the lake is classic.

Sunset Photography Tips

• Arrive early to secure a good spot.
• Use a tripod for stable shots.
• Shoot during the “golden hour” and “blue hour.”
• Include foreground elements like willows, boats or bridges.

Best Seasons for Sunset

• Spring: Soft colors and blossoming trees.
• Summer: Dramatic clouds but hazy.
• Autumn: Clearest skies and warm light.
• Winter: Early sunsets and crisp air.

Top 7 Sunset Spots in Detail

1. Leifeng Pagoda Viewpoint

The most classic sunset view in Hangzhou. Watch the sun drop behind the hills while the pagoda glows amber.

Best angle: From the Jingci Temple side of the lake, with the pagoda silhouetted

Time: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset

Getting there: Changqiao Metro (Line 4), walk 8 minutes

Photo tip: Include the lake reflection for a symmetrical shot

2. Baochu Hill (宝石山)

A short hike to a hilltop with 360° views. The sunset over West Lake from here is breathtaking.

Trailhead: Baoshan Road, near Huanglong | Hike time: 20 minutes uphill

Best angle: Facing west toward the lake | Difficulty: Easy (stone steps)

3. Su Causeway (苏堤)

Walking the 2.8km causeway at sunset, with golden light on both sides of the lake.

Best section: Southern half (near Huagang Park)

Time: Start walking north 45 minutes before sunset

4. City Balcony (城市阳台)

Watch the sunset over the Qiantang River with the modern skyline as backdrop.

Getting there: Civic Center Metro (Line 4), walk 10 minutes

Best angle: Facing west toward the skyline | Bonus: Weekend light show at 19:30

5. Taiziwan Park (太子湾)

Rolling lawns, flower gardens, and a hillside with views over West Lake.

Getting there: Bus 4 or taxi from Hubin (10 min)

Best time: Spring and autumn when flowers are in bloom

6. Six Harmonies Pagoda (六和塔)

A Song Dynasty pagoda on the Qiantang River hillside. The sunset view of the river and surrounding countryside is one of Hangzhou's hidden gems.

Entry: ¥20 | Getting there: Bus 4 or taxi from West Lake (20 min)

7. Meijiawu Tea Fields (梅家坞)

Terraced tea fields catching the last golden light. Less crowded than the lake, more peaceful.

Getting there: Bus 324 or taxi from West Lake (15 min)

Best time: Spring when the fields are bright green

Sunset Times by Month

FAQ