Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Hangzhou

The hotel is celebrated for its tranquil setting near West Lake, offering a blend of traditional Chinese architecture and modern luxury. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms, exquisite gardens, and top-notch amenities. The Michelin-starred Jin Sha restaurant is a highlight, known for its innovative Jiangzhe cuisine. The spa and fitness facilities receive high marks for their quality and variety. Families commend the kid-friendly services, including the dedicated kids' club and playground.

Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake: a serene luxury retreat in china's heartland.

Nestled just a stone's throw from the UNESCO World Heritage site of West Lake, the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake offers an exquisite fusion of traditional Chinese Song dynasty aesthetics and modern luxury. This upscale sanctuary boasts intricately designed courtyards and meticulously landscaped gardens that make guests feel immersed in a tranquil oasis. Perfect for travelers seeking a harmonious blend of culture, comfort, and natural beauty, the hotel stands out as a premier choice in Hangzhou's vibrant hospitality scene.

Spacious rooms starting at 63 square meters provide plenty of room to unwind with cozy furnishings and enclosed balconies overlooking serene courtyards and garden vistas. Guests can enjoy modern comforts along with subtle traditional touches that create an inviting atmosphere. The hotel's extensive amenities include a luxurious spa inspired by the five elements, featuring private suites with steam showers and baths — ideal for rejuvenation after a day exploring the nearby lake and city.

The hotel's Michelin-starred Jin Sha restaurant is a must-visit for food enthusiasts craving authentic Zhejiang cuisine with an innovative twist. Although some guests have only sampled select items during breakfast, the praise for its quality is consistent. Breakfast options cater to diverse preferences, including continental, vegetarian, gluten-free, and Asian styles, ensuring a delightful start to the day.

Guests consistently highlight the warm hospitality and attentive staff who go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. The serene location offers easy access to the picturesque West Lake, perfect for leisurely strolls or sightseeing anytime. Families appreciate the kid-friendly amenities, including a dedicated kids' club and playground, making it a welcoming environment for travelers with children.

However, some visitors have voiced concerns about service inconsistencies, such as lack of signage around trails, bellboy negligence, and occasional plumbing issues in upgraded rooms. These issues contrast with the hotel’s luxurious ambiance and premium pricing, indicating room for improvement in guest service and operational excellence.

What are the check-in and check-out times at Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake?

 Check-in is from 3:00 PM, and check-out is until 12:00 PM.

 Breakfast is available at an additional charge, with options including continental, vegetarian, gluten-free, Asian, American, and buffet styles.

Does the hotel offer airport shuttle services?

 Yes, the hotel provides airport shuttle services upon request.

 Pets are not allowed at Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake.

 Yes, the hotel features The Spa, offering treatments inspired by the five elements, with private suites equipped with steam showers and baths.

The Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake enjoys a reputation for its peaceful ambiance, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional dining. Guests often praise the courteous staff and the beautifully maintained gardens, which create a restful environment. While the hotel’s elegance and location near West Lake are universally admired, some feedback points to the need for improvements in guest services and operational details to align better with its premium status. Overall, it remains a favored destination for those seeking a refined stay in Hangzhou.

Asia

China

Nestled at 5 Ling Yin Lu, the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake is a breathtaking retreat that embodies the essence of luxury and tranquility. This stunning property is surrounded by the enchanting landscapes of Hangzhou, a city renowned for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. With its intricate Chinese-style architecture and lush gardens, the hotel offers a serene escape just a stone's throw away from the UNESCO World Heritage site of West Lake. Guests are welcomed into a world where elegance meets nature, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and exploration.

At the Four Seasons, dining is an experience to be savored. The hotel's signature restaurant, Jin Sha, is a culinary gem that showcases the exquisite flavors of Zhejiang cuisine. Guests can indulge in dishes such as the **Dongpo Pork**, a tender, slow-braised pork belly that melts in your mouth, and the **West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy**, a local specialty that perfectly balances sweet and sour flavors. Each dish is crafted with the freshest ingredients, ensuring a delightful gastronomic journey.

The Four Seasons Hotel is ideally located just a short walk from the picturesque West Lake, where visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the waterfront or take a boat ride to experience the lake's serene beauty. Nearby attractions include the historic Lingyin Temple and the vibrant Huqingyu Tang Chinese Medicine Museum, both offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Hangzhou. Whether you're exploring ancient temples or enjoying the tranquility of the lake, the hotel's location provides the perfect base for your adventures.

One of the standout features of the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou is its stunning landscaped gardens, inspired by the Song Dynasty. These gardens are not just for show; they provide a peaceful sanctuary for guests to unwind and connect with nature. Additionally, the hotel boasts a luxurious spa offering a range of treatments that blend traditional Chinese techniques with modern wellness practices, ensuring a rejuvenating experience.

The best time to visit Hangzhou is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is breathtaking.

Yes, the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou is family-friendly, offering amenities and activities suitable for guests of all ages.

Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake promises an unforgettable experience. With its stunning surroundings, exceptional dining, and luxurious amenities, this hotel is the perfect destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of Hangzhou. Book your stay today and discover the magic of this enchanting city!

Luxurious quarters in an upscale hotel with dining, a spa & an indoor pool, plus ornate gardens.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNRcF9HdGlnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ576mGStjSzQRtr13SnqAvO4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNRcF9HdGlnRRAB

I am writing to formally express my disappointment with my recent stay at your esteemed hotel, despite its impeccable environment. As a guest who paid 6,000 RMB per night and upgraded my room type at an additional cost, I had expected nothing short of exemplary service, yet the experience fell far short of this expectation.

Issues Raised:

1. Lack of Directional Signage
While the hotel’s location by West Lake is picturesque, the absence of clear signs for trails and hotel pathways made navigation challenging, particularly for first-time visitors.

2. Poor Service Attitudes and Negligence

• Inadequate Bellboy Service
Neither check-in nor check-out saw any offer of luggage assistance. When explicitly asked to help load suitcases into a taxi, the bellboy responded negligently.

• Shower Plumbing Crisis
It is particularly disappointing that this incident occurred in the upgraded room we paid extra for. A sewage backup in the shower flooded the bathroom floor at 9 PM, requiring emergency repairs. Verbal apologies were issued, yet no compensation (e.g., cleaning fees or room discounts) was provided.

3. Staff Underpreparedness
Repeated instances of indifference and inattentiveness suggest understaffing or inadequate training. Such lapses are unacceptable for a luxury hotel of your caliber.

Conclusion & Recommendations
While I acknowledge the hotel’s aesthetic appeal, the disconnect between its premium pricing and subpar service is troubling. It’s far from satisfactory from the service and attitude I had received from Four Seasons west Lake as one of the most EXPENSIVE and supposedly luxury hotel in Hangzhou (or even in China). I urge you to revisit your service protocols, prioritize staff training, and implement proactive measures to address guest concerns. Four Seasons’ reputation hinges on more than elegant interiors—it requires genuine excellence in every interaction.

Yours sincerely

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfZzdIM2V3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ576mGStjSzQRtr13SnqAvO4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfZzdIM2V3EAE

Easily holds its own against some of the best hotels in the world. Situated within a 10-mins walk to the scenic West Lake, Four Seasons Hangzhou is a stunning property with intricately designed Chinese-style courtyards and gardens.

The rooms were spacious, starting from 63 sqm, and featured an enclosed balcony overlooking the courtyard and garden below. Every staff member we had the pleasure of interacting with during our stay was more than warm and hospitable, as you would expect from Four Seasons.

While it's a shame that we did not get to try the famed Jin Sha restaurant, we did get a glimpse of its quality as you could order a few items ala carte as part of the breakfast buffet, which itself was more than a treat and a perfect way to start your day.

There are certain hotels out there, and while mostly pleasant, you just wouldn't mind skipping over to try something else. This is not that kind of hotel. It made damn sure that from now onwards, as long as I visit Hangzhou, this is where I would like to stay.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmbnZyTlpBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ576mGStjSzQRtr13SnqAvO4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmbnZyTlpBEAE

Unbeatable location, stone throw away from UNESCO world heritage site, Hangzhou Westlake.  Passeggiata anytime of the day to enjoy the scenic lake at your convenience. Besides, the hotel compound is its own sanctuary with a stunning landscaped Chinese Song dynasty inspired water gardens and pavilions.
The room was a bit dated yet still cosy.  Service was attentive and enthusiastic from all staff.
Another gem in this FS is the Jin Sha, a must visit for superb Zhejiang cuisines.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQMFpLY2JBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ576mGStjSzQRtr13SnqAvO4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQMFpLY2JBEAE

What a wonderful stay! Staff were polite and went above and beyond to ensure a pleasant trip. Room was very clean and very much cozy. Food, room, everything was just gorgeous! It is indeed a value for money!!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIbHVyQWlnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ576mGStjSzQRtr13SnqAvO4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIbHVyQWlnRRAB

The location of the hotel is just gorgeous. Everything from rooms, spa or food was just perfect ! The staff is kind and very professional.

Luxury Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake, China

Opened in 2010, Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake is situated on the shores of the historic West Lake, blending traditional Jiang Nan architecture with modern luxury.

Experience a culinary journey through Jiangsu and Zhejiang's rich heritage with our seasonal dishes at Jin Sha.

West Lake Watershield and Sea Urchin Jelly with Lotus Root and Pine Oil

Yellow Wine Marinated Geoduck Clam

Double-Boiled Aged Preserved Vegetable Soup with River Shrimp

Steamed Pumpkin Blossom Stuffed with Pork, Water Chestnut, Hairy Crab Meat, Dried Scallop, and Yellow Wine Vinasse Sauce

Pancake Rolled with Crisp Fritter, Bombay Duck, Sea Sedge, Lettuce and Caviar

Crispy Pigeon Leg Stuffed with Fish Maw and Ganba Mushroom

Braised Fish Skin with Ginger and Broccoli

Fried Rice with Chanterelle Mushroom, Chicken, Mashed Ginger, and Scallion Oil

Crystalline Pineapple Cake with Mung Bean

Birds Nest Pineapple Dew with Chinese Liquor

Jin Sha Restaurant Menu

Jin Sha Restaurant Menu Overview at Four Seasons Hangzhou West Lake 

Nestled within the exquisite grounds of the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou At West Lake, Jin Sha Restaurant offers a sublime culinary journey that showcases the rich heritage of Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. This seasonal menu is crafted to excite the palate with delicate flavors, fresh ingredients, and artistic presentations that reflect local traditions and innovative techniques.

Begin your meal with an array of refined starters that capture the essence of Hangzhou's vibrant aquatic and agricultural bounty.

West Lake Watershield and Sea Urchin Jelly with Lotus Root and Pine Oil: 

A delicate celebration of local West Lake watershield paired with the silky texture of sea urchin jelly, accented by crisp lotus root and fragrant pine oil.

Tender geoduck clam infused with the rich aroma of yellow wine and mellow rice dregs, offering a sumptuous seafood introduction.

Double-Boiled Aged Preserved Vegetable Soup with River Shrimp: 

A comforting and aromatic soup featuring aged preserved vegetables gently simmered with fresh river shrimp, rich in depth and tradition.

Savor a selection of masterfully prepared main courses that balance traditional flavors with innovative presentations, showcasing premium regional ingredients.

Steamed Pumpkin Blossom Stuffed with Pork, Water Chestnut, Hairy Crab Meat, Dried Scallop, and Yellow Wine Vinasse Sauce: 

A delicate pumpkin blossom envelops a succulent blend of pork, crunchy water chestnuts, tender hairy crab meat, and dried scallops, all enhanced by a fragrant yellow wine vinasse sauce.

Pancake Rolled with Crisp Fritter, Bombay Duck, Sea Sedge, Lettuce and Caviar: 

Crisp textures and oceanic flavors combine in this rolled pancake featuring Bombay duck, fresh sea sedge, crunchy lettuce, and luxurious caviar.

Crispy Pigeon Leg Stuffed with Fish Maw and Ganba Mushroom: 

Tender pigeon leg, perfectly crisped and generously stuffed with prized fish maw and earthy Ganba mushrooms for a rich umami experience.

Braised Fish Skin with Ginger and Broccoli: 

Silky fish skin braised to perfection, complemented by aromatic ginger and vibrant broccoli for a delicate balance of flavors and textures.

Fried Rice with Chanterelle Mushroom, Chicken, Mashed Ginger, and Scallion Oil: 

A fragrant fried rice stir-fried with wild chanterelle mushrooms, tender chicken pieces, mashed ginger, and aromatic scallion oil, perfect as a hearty main.

Conclude your meal with delights that marry traditional ingredients and refined sweetness, designed to refresh and captivate.

Crystalline Pineapple Cake with Mung Bean: 

An elegant cake featuring the tropical sweetness of pineapple with a smooth mung bean filling, bound with delicate arrowroot flour for a crystalline texture.

Birds Nest Pineapple Dew with Chinese Liquor: 

A luxurious dessert combining the delicate texture of bird's nest with fresh pineapple and the subtle warmth of traditional Chinese liquor, leaving a memorable finish.

Experience the Best of Jiangsu and Zhejiang Cuisines

At Jin Sha Restaurant, each dish is an exquisite representation of the region's culinary legacy, blending historic flavors with modern flair. Whether you’re starting with the light and elegant starters, indulging in the complex and hearty mains, or finishing with sweet delicacies, your dining experience is sure to be an unforgettable highlight of your stay at Four Seasons Hangzhou West Lake.

Experience luxury at Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou, nestled by picturesque West Lake. Indulge in scenic views and exceptional hospitality today!

Luxury 5-Star Hotel Near West Lake, Hangzhou

Hangzhou Municipality

Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou At West Lake

Jin Sha restaurant retains one Michelin star for the second consecutive year, offering refined Jiangzhe cuisine with a modern twist.

Michelin Starred Dining

An innovative cocktail menu that incorporates spices, vegetables, and fruits, blending culinary artistry with mixology.

From Kitchen to Bar Cocktail Experience

The Spa offers treatments inspired by the five elements, with private suites featuring steam showers and baths.

Spa and Wellness Facilities

A fully equipped fitness center overlooking the gardens, offering activities like Tai Chi, yoga, and personal training.

Fitness Center

A dedicated facility with supervised programs, including a game room with PS5 and Switch, and a welcome surprise for children upon arrival.

Kid's Club

Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake: Luxury Meets Serenity in the Heart of Hangzhou's Iconic Scenery.

Nestled at 5 Ling Yin Lu, just a stone's throw from the UNESCO World Heritage site of West Lake, the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake offers a sublime blend of traditional Chinese aesthetics and modern luxury. This serene retreat is a sanctuary inspired by the Song dynasty, featuring intricately designed courtyards, water gardens, and pavilions that immerse guests in timeless beauty. Perfect for travelers seeking an upscale lodging experience amid lush landscapes and historical charm.

From world-class dining to rejuvenating wellness, the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou excels in offering an array of captivating amenities designed to delight every guest. Whether you're a foodie, a wellness enthusiast, or traveling with family, this hotel caters to your desires with sophistication and care.

Indulge in the exquisite flavors at Jin Sha, the hotel's acclaimed restaurant that proudly retains a Michelin star for its refined Jiangzhe cuisine with a modern twist, delivering an unforgettable culinary journey.

From Kitchen to Bar Cocktail Experience: 

Savor innovative cocktails crafted with spices, fresh vegetables, and fruits, where culinary artistry meets mixology for a truly unique beverage experience.

Relax and rejuvenate with treatments inspired by the five elements in private suites featuring steam showers and baths, offering a holistic wellness experience.

Keep active at the fully equipped fitness center overlooking the tranquil gardens, with offerings such as Tai Chi, yoga classes, and personal training sessions.

A dedicated and supervised facility for children featuring a game room with PS5 and Nintendo Switch, and a welcoming surprise for young guests upon arrival, making it a family-friendly haven.

What Guests Love About Four Seasons Hangzhou

Guests often praise the hotel's unbeatable location just minutes from the tranquil West Lake, enabling leisurely strolls amidst stunning landscapes. The spacious rooms with balconies overlooking peaceful courtyards provide a cozy and elegant retreat after a day of exploring Hangzhou. Attentive and warm hospitality from staff further enhances the experience, making visitors feel truly valued.

Please note, while the hotel dazzles with its aesthetic and amenities, some guests have noted opportunities for improvement in signage and service responsiveness, which management is encouraged to address to uphold the Four Seasons' renowned standards of excellence.

Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou At West Lake overview 

Nestled in the heart of Hangzhou, the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou At West Lake offers travelers a unique blend of luxury, tradition, and natural beauty. Located just a stone’s throw from the renowned West Lake, this hotel is praised for its tranquil setting and exquisite Chinese-style courtyards and gardens inspired by Song dynasty design. Its spacious rooms, starting from 63 sqm, feature enclosed balconies that provide serene views over the lush garden landscapes.

The hotel boasts luxurious accommodations with spacious, well-appointed rooms that combine comfort with traditional Chinese aesthetics. Guests can indulge in the comprehensive spa and wellness facilities, designed to provide relaxation and rejuvenation after exploring the scenic surroundings. Dining is elevated here with the Michelin-starred Jin Sha restaurant, offering an authentic Zhejiang cuisine experience that delights food enthusiasts and gourmands alike.

One of the hotel's standout features is its exceptional service and warm hospitality. Guests have reported attentive and enthusiastic staff who elevate the overall experience. The serene location near West Lake offers easy access to one of China's UNESCO world heritage sites, perfect for leisurely strolls and sightseeing at any time of day. This setting transforms the hotel into a peaceful sanctuary that seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural richness.

While the Four Seasons Hangzhou At West Lake delights many, there are a few factors travelers should consider. The hotel commands a higher price point compared to other local accommodations, which may not suit all budgets. During peak tourist seasons, availability can be limited, so early booking is recommended. Additionally, some guests have noted inconsistencies in service quality during busy periods, highlighting potential opportunities for the hotel to enhance operational efficiency and staff training.

 Exceptional service and hospitality, serene location near West Lake, spacious luxurious rooms, Michelin-starred dining at Jin Sha restaurant, comprehensive spa and wellness options.

 Higher pricing than local alternatives, limited room availability during peak times, occasional service inconsistencies reported.

In summary, the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou At West Lake is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a luxurious and culturally immersive stay near one of China's most iconic natural landmarks. Its blend of traditional elegance, comfortable accommodations, and gourmet dining makes it a memorable destination. Prospective guests should weigh the premium pricing and service variability to determine if it aligns with their travel expectations and budget.

Zhejiang Province

Experience the stunning Four Seasons Hotel in Hangzhou, a luxury retreat by the scenic West Lake, offering exquisite dining and serene gardens. Book now!

Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou: Luxury By West Lake

Savor Michelin-starred Jiangzhe cuisine at Jin Sha restaurant in Hangzhou’s Four Seasons. Enjoy exquisite dishes in a stunning setting. Reserve your table today!

Discover Dining at Jin Sha: Michelin-Starred Delights

Plan your perfect getaway with our insider tips for Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou. From spa treatments to cultural sites, make the most of your stay!