Most tours organised by the Hangzhou Tourism Commission are geared towards Chinese tourists, though the city's hotels provide a broad range of trips and excursions. The West Lake's centrality to Hangzhou's history and identity makes a cruise on its waters a ‘must do' experience. West Lake Boat Co. (tel: (571) 8796 1138) offers pleasure boat trips from two wharfs: at the south end of the Hubin Road esplanade, and at the north end of Hubin Lu near Changsheng Road. The one-hour cruise takes in the Xiaoyingzhou Island, Mid-Lake Pavilion and Yang Causeway.

Jumping on the West Lake Golf Cart Tour (tel: (571) 8797 2452) is a leisurely way to explore the myriad attractions fringing the West Lake. Simply wave it down and hop on.

Hangzhou Holidays Bike Co. (tel: (571) 8519 6370; website: www.hzbike.com) organises regular group rides into the hills surrounding the city.