Shangri-La Hangzhou is one of the long-established luxury names on West Lake, and its charm is its setting. It stands at 78 Beishan Road on the northern shore, a calmer stretch of the lake than the busy east side, with gardens, a terrace and a leafy, residential feel. With just 198 individually decorated rooms it is smaller and more intimate than the big downtown towers, and it is a favourite with couples, repeat visitors and travellers who prefer a garden setting to a shopping-mall location. The lake is about a six-minute walk, so the shoreline, the causeways and the early-morning paths are on your doorstep, while the hills and temples of the north-west lakeside are close by. It is a hotel for people who come to Hangzhou for the landscape.
Location and getting around
Beishan Road runs along the northern side of West Lake, and the hotel is about a six-minute walk from the water. This side of the lake is known for its tree-lined streets, historic sites and quieter promenades, so a morning walk along the shore is a highlight of a stay.
The old street at Hefang and the evening crowds on the east shore are a short taxi ride away, and Lingyin Temple and the tea hills are reachable by road. The hotel can arrange an airport shuttle on request, for a fee, and bicycle rental is available for exploring the lake.
Rooms
The 198 rooms are individually decorated, with a classic, comfortable style. Choose a room facing the garden for a calm outlook, or a higher category for more space. Because the hotel is smaller than the downtown towers, service tends to feel more personal, though it can fill quickly during spring and autumn and national holidays.
Who it suits
Couples, garden lovers and guests who want a peaceful base within walking distance of the lake. It is a good choice for longer stays and repeat visits. It is less suited to travellers who want shopping malls and nightlife next door, who will be happier on the east side of the lake.
Good to know
There are two restaurants on site, a bar, a terrace and a garden, plus a health club and gym. A children's playground makes it friendlier for families than many luxury hotels. Free self-parking and free in-room WiFi are provided, and a buffet breakfast is available for a charge. Check-in is from mid-afternoon and check-out is at noon. The hotel details do not confirm a swimming pool or spa, so ask about those before you book if they matter to you.
Why stay here
- ✓Gardens and terrace
- ✓Health club and gym
- ✓Two restaurants
- ✓Bar
- ✓Children's playground
- ✓Bicycle rental
- ✓Free self-parking
- ✓Free in-room WiFi
Good questions
How far is Shangri-La Hangzhou from West Lake?+
The lake is about a six-minute walk from the hotel, which stands on Beishan Road on the northern shore.
Does the hotel have a pool?+
The hotel details do not confirm a pool or spa, but there is a health club and gym. Ask when you book if a pool matters to you.
Is it good for families?+
Yes, it has gardens and a children's playground, and the lake paths are easy for walking and cycling.
