Suite/Hotel Info
About the hotel
Located just 45 minutes from Shanghai, this member of the Four Seasons Group is based in Hangzhou, the capital and largest city of China’s Zhejiang Province. Hangzhou’s surroundings are lush, with picturesque mountain peaks and extensive gardens to complement the vast West Lake. Traditional Chinese temples dot the area, along with delicate bridges. Four Seasons Hangzhou plays off this natural beauty, with 81 guest rooms and three residential-style villas decorated in a traditional Chinese style with modern facilities.
Look & Feel
The suite experience
The enormous suites are all essentially full sized apartments with separate living areas, pantry, two bathrooms and a beautiful garden. The marble bathroom includes a deep soaking bath, a rain shower and a large basin vanity with a television.
Eat In
Dining
The Jin Sha restaurant is incredible. I had a lunch tasting menu that comprised traditional Chinese food with Western flavours thrown in. The braised pork was one of the best mouthfuls of food I have ever eaten. The WL Bistro allows for all-day Asian cuisine and there are in-room dining options available. Longjing tea is served daily in the Lobby Lounge in the traditional fashion. This delicate green tea is native to Zhejiang Province, where it continues to be produced by hand.
Treat Yourself
Spa
The dark stone spa is worth having a look at even if you’re not having a treatment. Each room is huge and it’s extremely quiet and peaceful. With no natural light, you almost feel as if you are underground.
If you’d like to upgrade
The three-storey Presidential Villa has three bedrooms, landscaped gardens and a private main entrance. The lower floor functions as an entertainment space with a spacious theatre room, a separate bar, a private indoor swimming pool and a gym and sauna.
Special Touches
Highlights
The Four Seasons Hangzhou is incredibly beautiful and incorporates traditional Chinese architecture with a modern touch.
Could do better
It’s hard to have any gripes, but I will note that the resort is massive. I did get lost a few times – and that was without any alcohol.
Insider tip
Take the boat ride if you are arriving by train. You’ll be collected at the station and driven to the lake where an oarsman in a traditional Chinese boat awaits. Refreshments are served as you cruise up the lake, a perfect activity for a nice day and a really relaxing and special way to arrive at your destination. Don’t miss it.