I don’t remember all the details on Hangzhou, but what I do remember is the relatively short stay in this area. We had, what felt like, a very long ride (only 2 hours on Google Maps) ride to Hangzhou from Shanghai. We were all really agitated after the recent events in Shanghai, and were upset and not ready for what was to come next. The good thing was, we made it just in time for sunset at Xi Hu or West Lake in Hangzhou. It was a very welcomed escape from the concrete and metropolis’ that the past week had encompassed. There were a few people enjoying their time as the sun was setting down.

Next, we were headed to dinner. I think it is really interesting to see how transportation is so different in different cities. The US, you would never see these “tuk tuk” taxies. It would also never be this congested with pedestrians, cars, bikes, and every mode of transportation possible.

Tuk Tuk at a light.

After dinner we had a few moments to walk around. It was still pretty busy out on the streets. Here a street vendor sells some bamboo creations.

And the local delicacy of chicken feet. I admit, I do enjoy my fair share of chicken feet, but usually for dim sum.

The weirdest things were these showers we had in our room. From Hangzhou on, we had these glass door showers, and they became less and less private. This one at least had a curtain.

The next day we had a early morning start to the China National Tea Museum, which I wasn’t really fond of.  The target audience really wasn’t a college student or young professional.  It was still nice to see the tea fields and landscapes on the way over.

At the entrance of the museum was this large wok, a wok for roasting tea leaves. Just like coffee or cocoa beans, the leaves are roasted for some flavor.

The view of the courtyard.

Later that day we headed to Xi Hu again to have a little walk as we headed to a boat tour.

We got some beautiful views and light while headed over, here was one of my favorites.

And a view across the river, we could see Liuhe Pagoda.  The different types of architecture is always a welcome subject.

I got a group photo of all the members of this trip, starting from my uncle Paul, Mom, Marvin, Dad, Me, and Aunt.

Marvin dangling his legs, and looking like…

This:

The next few is our view on our boat tour, which was nice except for the constant haze.

Selfie!

Lastly, we had a few moments to walk through the park, I don’t remember of all these are from the same place, but they look to be Hangzhou Botanical Gardens.