By Noura Khan
Exclusive to The Times Kuwait
Tucked away in a dreamlike landscape of willow trees, tranquil ponds, and winding garden paths lies a sanctuary that feels more like an imperial retreat than a modern-day hotel. My recent stay at Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake was more than a luxurious getaway—it was a deeply cultural, serene, and restorative experience that lingers in my memory like a poetic reverie.
The moment I arrived, I was immediately captivated by the hotel’s design—a stunning ode to the Southern Song Dynasty. With its curved rooftops, open-air pavilions, stone bridges, and bamboo groves, the property is a living tribute to classical Chinese aesthetics.
It is not just a resort, it is a village of beauty and stillness. Walking through its water gardens, I felt transported into an ancient Chinese scroll painting, brought to life with modern comforts and warm, intuitive service.
My suite was more than a room; it was a peaceful haven. Decorated in rich wood and soft silks, it seamlessly blended traditional motifs with contemporary elegance. A private terrace opened onto the gardens, where the early morning light filtered through the trees and the only sounds were the soft rustle of leaves and distant bird calls.
Each detail, from the welcoming handwritten note to the aromatic tea left in my room, was a reminder of the Four Seasons’ unmatched attention to guest experience.
One of the most unforgettable parts of my stay was the food. The hotel’s signature Chinese restaurant, Jin Sha, is a celebrated culinary destination that has been awarded Black Pearl Three Diamonds eight times and Michelin One Star three times. Helmed by renowned Chef Wang Yong, it specializes in exquisite cuisine from Shanghai and Zhejiang, offering refined local flavors using seasonal ingredients. Private dining rooms overlook lush gardens, creating a serene, intimate setting for unforgettable meals.
Equally delightful was West Lake Bistro, the hotel’s Italian-inspired restaurant. It serves European classics with a modern twist in a stylish, relaxed atmosphere. I particularly enjoyed dining on the outdoor terrace beside the infinity pond and West Lake; the combination of delicate pastas, fine wine, and tranquil water views was pure magic.
To complete the experience, I indulged in a few hours at the award-winning spa, a true haven of serenity. Designed by Bensley Studios, the spa combines the grace of Chinese healing traditions with the comfort of contemporary luxury. With nine spacious treatment rooms (ideal for couples), a soothing menu of massages and facials, plus manicure and pedicure services, it was a holistic journey for body and soul. The wellness center also includes an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and a fully equipped fitness studio, ideal for those seeking a full reset.
What truly elevates this property above all others is its exclusive private dock on West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the lake can often be bustling, Four Seasons guests enjoy the rare privilege of serene, crowd-free boat rides at sunrise or sunset—the most peaceful way to experience this legendary Chinese landmark.
And then, an unexpected highlight: the in-house Hanfu photography studio. Guests can dress in traditional Chinese garments from various dynasties, complete with professional hair and makeup styling. I found myself transformed—stepping into the past for a regal photo session framed by the beauty of the hotel’s architecture and gardens. The portraits I left with are more than photos; they are a keepsake of an unforgettable cultural immersion.
Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake is not just a luxurious place to stay. It is a destination that awakens the senses, honors tradition, and offers unparalleled tranquility. It redefines what it means to travel in style, especially for those seeking experiences that are both elegant and emotionally enriching.
For anyone dreaming of China beyond the expected, a China full of grace, heritage, and sophistication, this is where you begin.
Noura Khan, a travel influencer and content creator, is a Kuwaiti national, holds a degree in law from Kuwait University and has worked as a journalist prior to taking up a position in the government. In 2018 she started blogging on travel and visited more than 57 countries since. She has more than 105k followers on her blog post @nourajtraveller is well appreciated for content and travel information. Noura writes exclusively for The Times Kuwait on her travel visits.
