[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_css_main_element=”position: fixed;||top: 0;||left: 0;||right: 0;” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_menu active_link_color=”#ffffff” logo=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/yellow-logo-1.png” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ menu_font=”Heebo|900|||||||” menu_text_color=”#ffffff” background_image=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/shade.png” positioning=”absolute” position_origin_a=”top_center” vertical_offset=”-18px” width=”100%” min_height=”27px” custom_margin=”||-6px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” menu_text_shadow_style=”preset5″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_fullwidth_menu][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_css_main_element=”position: fixed;||top: 0;||left: 0;||right: 0;” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_menu active_link_color=”#ffffff” logo=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/yellow-logo-1.png” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ menu_font=”Heebo|900|||||||” menu_text_color=”#ffffff” background_image=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/shade.png” positioning=”absolute” position_origin_a=”top_center” vertical_offset=”-18px” width=”100%” min_height=”27px” custom_margin=”||-6px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” menu_text_shadow_style=”preset5″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_fullwidth_menu][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Post Header” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”-61px|||||” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ min_height=”472px” custom_margin=”49px|auto|-82px|auto||” custom_padding=”114px||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ header_font=”Bellefair||||||||” header_text_color=”#000000″ header_font_size=”48px” header_line_height=”1.2em” header_2_font=”Bellefair||||||||” header_2_text_align=”left” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”48px” header_2_line_height=”1.2em” header_3_font=”Bellefair||||||||” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ header_3_font_size=”38px” header_3_line_height=”1.2em” header_4_font=”Bellefair||||||||” header_4_text_color=”#000000″ header_4_font_size=”30px” header_4_line_height=”1.4em” header_5_font=”Bellefair||||||||” header_5_text_color=”#000000″ header_5_font_size=”22px” header_5_line_height=”1.2em” header_6_font=”Montserrat|700||on|||||” header_6_text_color=”#ff4e00″ header_6_font_size=”12px” header_6_letter_spacing=”2px” header_6_line_height=”1.2em” min_height=”39.4px” header_font_size_tablet=”42px” header_font_size_phone=”34px” header_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet” header_2_font_size_tablet=”42px” header_2_font_size_phone=”34px” header_2_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet” header_3_font_size_tablet=”34px” header_3_font_size_phone=”28px” header_3_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” header_4_font_size_tablet=”22px” header_4_font_size_phone=”18px” header_4_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” header_5_font_size_tablet=”” header_5_font_size_phone=”16px” header_5_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet” border_color_all=”#ff4e00″ border_width_bottom=”4px” text_text_align=”justify” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” header_2_2_font_size_tablet=”42px” header_3_2_font_size_tablet=”42px” header_4_2_font_size_tablet=”42px” header_5_2_font_size_tablet=”42px” header_6_2_font_size_tablet=”42px” header_2_2_font_size_phone=”34px” header_3_2_font_size_phone=”34px” header_4_2_font_size_phone=”34px” header_5_2_font_size_phone=”34px” header_6_2_font_size_phone=”34px” header_2_2_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet” header_3_2_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet” header_4_2_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet” header_5_2_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet” header_6_2_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet” header_2_3_font_size_tablet=”34px” header_3_3_font_size_tablet=”34px” header_4_3_font_size_tablet=”34px” header_5_3_font_size_tablet=”34px” header_6_3_font_size_tablet=”34px” header_2_3_font_size_phone=”28px” header_3_3_font_size_phone=”28px” header_4_3_font_size_phone=”28px” header_5_3_font_size_phone=”28px” header_6_3_font_size_phone=”28px” header_2_3_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” header_3_3_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” header_4_3_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” header_5_3_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” header_6_3_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” header_2_4_font_size_tablet=”22px” header_3_4_font_size_tablet=”22px” header_4_4_font_size_tablet=”22px” header_5_4_font_size_tablet=”22px” header_6_4_font_size_tablet=”22px” header_2_4_font_size_phone=”18px” header_3_4_font_size_phone=”18px” header_4_4_font_size_phone=”18px” header_5_4_font_size_phone=”18px” header_6_4_font_size_phone=”18px” header_2_4_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” header_3_4_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” header_4_4_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” header_5_4_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” header_6_4_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” header_2_5_font_size_phone=”16px” header_3_5_font_size_phone=”16px” header_4_5_font_size_phone=”16px” header_5_5_font_size_phone=”16px” header_6_5_font_size_phone=”16px” header_2_5_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet” header_3_5_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet” header_4_5_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet” header_5_5_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet” header_6_5_font_size_last_edited=”on|tablet”][\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Post Body” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”||-122px|||” custom_padding=”0px|||||” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-25px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
During my preparation for this trip, I have marked Hangzhou as one of the highlights of my trip. It is described as the most beautiful of the imperial capitals of China, it is very close to two amazing mountains \u2013 the famous Yellow Mountain (Huangshan) and the greatly underappreciated Sanqingshan, plus it has the only tea and probably the best silk and traditional Chinese medicine museums in China. I have booked only four nights in Hangzhou so I had a busy schedule.<\/p>\n
By the time I have arrived it was already getting dark so I decided to skip museums \u2013 they were about to get closed, and head for the oldest street in Hangzhou \u2013 Hefang Street. The street is the only leftover from the times when Hangzhou was the capital of China during the Southern Song Dynasty. Now it is a shopping temple with both sides of the street lined with restaurants, bakeries, fast food joins, refreshment outlets, clothing and souvenirs shops.<\/p>\n
\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/1-Hefang-Street.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”43%” module_alignment=”center” caption_text=”Hefang Street” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Next day the weather decided not to cooperate with my super busy schedule. It had to happen at some point but after 20 days of traveling in China I have experienced rain. It was not a nice tropical shower which falls for 15 minutes and then is followed by sun which dries everything in half-an-hour; it was that gloomy cloud fill cold autumn rain that drizzles more than it rains. Not an ideal weather for using a rent-a-bike. I proudly announce that I have finally learned how to rent a bike! China is bikers paradise \u2013 there are cheap rent-a-bike all over the place, its cities are mostly flat and they have very wide biking lanes which are separated from the cars. Cars do appear regularly on the bike lanes, often going in the opposite direction, but no country if perfect.<\/p>\n
My first stop of the day was The Former Residence of Hu Xueyan. In its beauty it rivals the best garden mansions of Suzhou or the imperial grandeur of Summer Palace in Beijing. It is small, simple, elegant and homey.<\/p>\n
\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2-Entrance-to-the-mansion.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text=”Entrance to the mansion” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/3-Map-of-the-Mansion.jpg” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text=”Map of the Mansion” enable_caption_text=”on” image_title_alignment=”center” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Hu Xueyan was a self-made man, rising from humble origins to become one of the richest and most influential merchants in the 19th century China. His achievements caught the eye of the ruling dynasty and Empress Dowager Cixi, the powerful woman who ran the Empire behind the scenes, put him in charge of running the city of Hangzhou and advised her on Westernization projects. He died in shame and indebted, unfortunately, as he made a number of failed investments later in his life. However, Hu Xueyan is still regarded as one of the most talented merchants and entrepreneurs of his time.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2237,2236,2235,2234″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_align=”center” caption_text_align=”center” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Inside you can visit different rooms decorated with outstanding Chinese furniture and bonzai trees and flowers, but the best part is the garden with its pond.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”222.4px” custom_padding=”22px||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2238,2239,2240,2241″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text_align=”center” min_height=”222.4px” custom_margin=”||-20px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”127px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The next stop on my bike tour was the Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum. It looks very informative, but I couldn\u2019t really tell because almost everything was in Chinese. It does give you an overview of some famous people that have made advancements in traditional Chinese medicine. Towards the end of the exhibition, it provides you with reasons why China is one of the biggest threats to the survival of so many endangered species \u2013 tiger eyes are good for your sight, the magic effects of pangolin shells, bear bones and similar. OK, the description below describes these as critically endangered species protected by law, but it does not mention that possessing and consuming these \u201cmedicine\u201d is illegal.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/12-Accountant_s-Office.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text=”Accountant’s Office” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/12-Sun-Simiao-Medicine-King.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text=”Sun Simiao Medicine King” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/14-Pangolins-are-killed-on-mass-for-the-purposes-of-Chinese-traditional-medicine.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text=”Pangolins are killed on mass for the purposes of Chinese traditional medicine” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The museum is also a large pharmacy where you can buy all kinds of traditional Chinese medicines. I put more faith into modern pharmaceutical industry than into traditional Chinese medicine, which is not to say modern farmaceutical giants exhude confidence, it is just that I do not wish to put my health into the hands of people guided by the logic \u201csince tigers have very good eye sight, eating their eyes will improve your sight\u201d.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/15-Traditional-Chinese-Pharmacy-1.jpg” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”52%” module_alignment=”center” caption_text=”Traditional Chinese Pharmacy” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The last museum of my bike tour was the National Silk Museum. It is advertised as the best silk museum in China and as such it turned out to be a massive disappointment. The museum is a massive modernist complex, surrounded by trees and artificial lakes. It looks very nice on the outside. However, it is also under renovation so it only has two exhibitions \u2013 Western and Chinese fashion. Chinese fashion was, unfortunately, restricted to modern fashion. It would be very interesting to learn about the evolution of costumes for women and men throughout China\u2019s history, but it was not to be.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2249,2248,2247,2246″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text_align=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The weather has taken a turn for the worst and my next destination is in the hills so it was time to park my bicycle and call Didi (Chinese Uber) to take me to the Longjing village, where the best tea in China is produced. It took me a while to think if this was my first visit to a tea plantation, but after some 10-minute deliberations I have reached a firm conclusion that it is not. Almost 20 years ago I have visited tea plantations around Munar, in the Indian province of Kerala, which produces the famous Nilgiri tea. Longjing or Dragon Well tea is considered the best tea in China, due in great part by the preference shown by the former Qing imperial dynasty for this tea. It was reported that Longjing was the favorite tea of Emperor Kangxi, widely regarded as one of the greatest emperors in Chinese history. On photos below you can see \u201cGreen gold\u201d<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2250,2251,2252,2253″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_video src=”https:\/\/youtube.com\/shorts\/PkDkFCu5QpA?feature=share” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_video][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The views of rolling hills covered with lines of green tea bushes made me forget about all the misery inflicted upon me by the cold weather and soaking wet feet. I have brought two walking shoes with me on this trip. My hiking shoes are half open summer hiking shoes, highly unsuitable for cold and wet environments. My \u201cproper\u201d shoes are brand new city shoes which lose comfort after walking in them for over an hour. Even though I knew the weather forecast, I decided to risk wet feet over blisters. The good thing about half-open shoes is that they get dry very quickly. One of the nicest things about tea plantations are Chinese workers wearing their traditional rounded-pyramid shaped yellow straw hats.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2254,2255,2256,2257″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
You can walk freely through the tea plantations but do not forget to walk further down the village to the Imperial Tea Garden. It is a beautiful mansion where Emperors, including famous emperors like Kangxi and Qianlong, would reside while visiting Hangzhou. The mansion also has a restaurant and a shop with souvenirs, though the prices are much higher, as you can assume.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2258,2259,2260,2261″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text_align=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
On my way to the mansion, I have noticed one restaurant was full, while most other restaurants were half-empty. I decided there and then this is the spot where I will have my lunch. After I have explored the mansion and its garden, some tables will open up, for sure. By the time I finished exploring the imperial garden and returned to the restaurant, I managed to get the last table. I ordered glazed pork with homemade rice bread. They also serve and make their own Longjing tea so it was time to try it. It is not what I imagined it to be. First of all, it really is just tea leaves. They don\u2019t give you sugar, honey or any other sweetener. As a result, it was rather strong and bitter, so if you are used to sweet frutty teas, it might not entirely be to your taste. I bought their tea, the tea is quite expensive \u2013 200 yuan for 50 grams, but the owner gave me a 50 yuan discount on the food bill.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/32-Glazed-pork-with-rice-bread.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text=”Glazed pork with rice bread” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/33-A-cup-of-Longjing-tea.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text=”A cup of Longjing tea” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
With my stomach full and feet still wet, I cold Didi to the National Tea Museum. But, after waiting for 10 minutes with no accepted rides, I decided to walk there \u2013 my feet are already wet, it is only a few kilometers and I will be going downhill. During nice weather I would recommend this walk. The path takes you through the forest and pass the tea fields. Only one section is the main road. Don\u2019t worry, you cannot get lost, just follow the instructions on AMAP (Chinese Google Maps).<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/34-Path-to-the-National-Tea-Museum.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text=”Path to the National Tea Museum” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/35-Path-to-the-National-Tea-Museum.jpg” title_text=”Other side of the same path” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” module_alignment=”center” caption_text=”Other side of the same path” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
After the disappointment of the National Silk Museum, National Tea Museum was a revelation. It is very informative and uses graphics to illustrate the history of the tea trees and its consumption. Did you know that tea is also a tree the size of an apple tree? I don\u2019t think they make tea out of these trees though; I presume now they only make tea solely from the leaves of its bush-like relative. I also learned that tea was first spread all over China by China\u2019s first emperor Qin Shi Huang in the 3rd century BC. In those times, tea was used as an ingredient in soup-like drinks. However, ordinary people started drinking tea only during the Tang Dynasty (6th \u2013 9th century), when it was made into cakes so you needed to grind it into tea dust and put boiling water on top of it. The way we prepare our tea today \u2013 by specially fermenting tea leaves \u2013 was invented during the Ming Dynasty \u2013 14th-17th century.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2269,2268,2267,2266″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text_align=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
My original plan was to include a visit to the Lingyin Temple, which is fairly close by. But my soaking wet feet have finally taken their toll on me. Instead, I went to the Silk Street to finalize shopping for gifts for my family. Hangzhou is historically one of the capitals of silk production. The Silk Street is a street lined with stores selling all kinds of silk products \u2013 from scarves to traditional and modern dresses and even raw material. I was looking specifically for traditional Chinese dresses called qipao. The prices ranged from over 1000 euros to 60 euros. I am sure the quality also diverges.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/40-Silk-Street.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”47%” module_alignment=”center” caption_text=”Silk Street” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
After getting to bed early I woke up early the next day because the sun was projected to make its return so it was time to explore the most famous of Hangzhou\u2019s attractions \u2013 Xi or Western Lake. It is a big lake surrounded mostly by green areas \u2013 only on its eastern side it borders Hangzhou\u2019s modern streets and buildings. For an ancient Chinese capital, Hangzhou is very modern in its appearance. It is very clean and orderly city and proves its credential as the most beautiful of the ancient imperial capitals.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2276,2277,2278,2279″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
My original plan was to cover all 20km around the lake on foot, but after making a two-hour detour to Lingyin Temple complex, I changed my mind and took a bike for the last quarter of the distance.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/45-Local-working-out-on-the-banks-of-the-Xi-Lake.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”53%” module_alignment=”center” caption_text=” Local working out on the banks of the Xi Lake” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
After finally getting to see XXX temple, I realized it was a good decision to postpone my visit to the temple yesterday. I have underestimated how big the temple complex is \u2013 it contains many other temples and pathways with old Buddhist stone carvings and statues. The name of the temple means Temple of the Soul\u2019s Retreat. Its origins are from the 4th century AD and the temple is a part of Chan Buddhism. Chan Buddhism is an indigenous, Chinese version of Buddhism. I am not in any way an expert in Buddhism, but I managed to find Chan Buddhism is very close to Japanese Zen Buddhism.<\/p>\n
\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2286,2287,2288,2289″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text_align=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The temples in the complex are very beautiful and sufficiently different from Confucian temples that I am used to \u2013 they are yellow and brown. No red, green or blue colors that dominated Confucian temples I have visited before. The only problem is the temples were picture shy \u2013 they are either surrounded by trees of are built close together so it is very difficult to get a nice clear photo of them. The most important temple has proven the least photo-friendly.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/51-Lingyin-temple.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text=”Lingyin temple” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/52-Lingying-temple.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text=”Lingying temple” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/53-Hangzhou-viewed-from-the-boat.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text=”Hangzhou viewed from the boat” enable_caption_text=”on” image_caption_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
On the way back I stopped at the Leifeng Pagoda, which has the best views of the city. It is built on the hill where the imperial palace was built during the time of the Southern Song Dynasty, when Hangzhou was the capital of China. There is not much left from this imperial palace and the hill-top complex contains a number of temples but people go there primarily for the views. Leifeng Pagoda is a tower where you can climb to have amazing views of the city and the Western Lake.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2297,2298,2299,2292″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
I got back to my hostel, where I had lunch in the restaurant next door and went for a short afternoon nap, before the two boat tours. First, I took a boat tour around the Western Lake. You can just walk along the coast of the lake until you find the boat you like. Boats come in all shapes and sizes but I would advise you to book the one with open deck. Some boats have closed decks, which means you are looking at the lake and the surroundings through glass windows. That is not a photo-friendly environment.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2302,2303,2304,2305″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text_align=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The tour lasted around 40 minutes and I would advise you to take the tour during sunset. It becomes magical.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2307,2308,2309,2310″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
After the Xi Lake boat trip, I took a bike to the famous Grand Canal, for my night tour. Hangzhou is the beginning of the famous Grand Canal. The cradle of Chinese civilization is north of the Yellow River. However, throughout centuries the center of food production moved further and further south, around Yangze River. This meant that capitals, which were mostly north of the Yellow River, above all Beijing, had to rely on food supplies delivered from the South. The Grand Canal was built to connect Yangzee River basin with Yellow River and northern capitals. Grand Canal is 1800 km long, though not all of it is strictly canal \u2013 it encompasses rivers and lakes. Nevertheless, it is the longest man-built waterway in the world.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2312,2313,2314,2315″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The tour started on the wrong foot as we were all forced inside the boat. Even though the boat has open deck rooftop, we were mandated to go inside and watch the city through glass windows. To make the matters worse, these glass windows were covered with big company signs and logos. That is crap, I thought to myself. Luckily, they let us outside after 15 minutes. The tour is one hour in total \u2013 30 minutes one-way and back the same way. Hangzhou really is a beautiful modern city.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/71-Grand-Canal.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/72-Grand-Canal.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The next day was reserved for a day trip to Sanqingshan. My hiker friend, who has lived in China for over ten years has described Sanqingshan as the most beautiful mountain in China. Naturally, I had to see it. The best way to see Sanqingshan is to spend the night in Yushan and then get the first bus to Sanqingshan 60-90 minutes away. Sanqingshan is a steep climb and then close to the top it turns into a circular trek. Travel blogs say you need 6-7 hours to see it. As I was on a tight schedule, I have chosen a shorter version. Instead of spending the night in Yushan, I took the first train from Hangzhou to Yushan and was there around 9. Taking local buses would take too long so I just called a Didi for 100 yuan. The drive was over an hour so by the time I bought my ticket and was ready to start my hike, it was 10:30. So I did the unthinkable and took the cable car to the top. I felt like a complete cheat all the way up. The views were nice, nonetheless.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2319,2320,2321,2322″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text_align=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
At the top I found the map and managed to orientate myself and figure out which routes I have to take. I will first take the Western route and then get back to my original point from the east. The beginning is all going up, but the scenery is amazing. Going up means, of course, you are climbing stairs. The Chinese have made their mission never to touch ground on the hikes so the entire path is covered with stone or cement. European in me does not approve. The steep climb ends halfway through the western section of the hike. From now on, your tendency will be to go downwards, thought there will still be sections where you need to go up.\u00a0<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2324,2326,2327,2325″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Overall the scenery on the southern side of the mountain is better, but the northern side contains the most famous rock formations \u2013 like the Cobra and the Eastern Goddess. Overall, it took me 3:30 hours to do the circle, so way under 6-7 hours I found online. I have reached a conclusion that hikers in China are much slower than me but it still annoys me because I cannot make a plan that I will finish the hike hours ahead of the information provide online. What will happen if I finally run into a travel blog written by a \u201cquicker\u201d hiker. I was debating if I should descend down by foot, but since I already booked a return cable-car ticket, I decided it should not go to waste. I was also getting really hungry. The food around the tourist sites tends to be heavily overpriced, so I decided to get something to eat close to the train station.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids=”2328,2329,2330,2331″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” caption_text_align=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_gallery][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Along the way, you cannot escape the hardship of people bringing the food, drinks and materials to the top of the mountain. There is no road to the top, so everything must be carried by men. So I understand why everything is so expensive on mountain tops.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/86.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”87%” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/85.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”87%” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Some of them even have to carry a lazy decadent Chinese. Hahaha<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_video src=”https:\/\/youtube.com\/shorts\/1fXLtUMF1SM?feature=share” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_video][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
After I returned to the train station, I realized I have to wait for 90 minutes for my train back to Hangzhou. So I left the station in search of food. Oh boy, Lushan is a very small town by Chinese standards and you could see it. The high speed railway stations are always a bit further away from the city centre so there was pretty much nothing appealing to eat at the train station. I walked around a bit and chose a local restaurant where there were two Chinese people also eating. The rule of thumb is always to eat where the locals eat, and even though it was only two people eating, it was 4pm \u2013 time between lunch and dinner when very few Chinese people congregate in restaurant. The owners were really excited to see me. I guess they do not see a lot of foreigners. I ordered chicken, egg and vegetable fried rice. You get shredded chicken with chicken leg bone. I don\u2019t understand, if they have already cleaned the meat from the chicken leg, why put the bone into the dish?!<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/87.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”48%” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
I still had some time to kill after my lunch so I walked around and even managed to find a fruit store. Most of Chinese dishes come with meat and one vegetable so I am trying to eat more fruit to get my vitamins.<\/p>\n
I finally arrived back to my hotel around 8pm and went straight to bed. Tomorrow is a long trip to Kaifeng.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Comments” _builder_version=”4.16″ min_height=”768.6px” custom_margin=”62px||62px||false|” saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text content_last_edited=”off|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ _dynamic_attributes=”content” header_2_font=”Bellefair||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”48px” header_2_line_height=”1.2em” header_2_font_size_tablet=”42px” header_2_font_size_phone=”34px” header_2_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9jb21tZW50X2NvdW50Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiPGgyPiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIENvbW1lbnRzPC9oMj4iLCJsaW5rX3RvX2NvbW1lbnRzX3BhZ2UiOiJvbiJ9fQ==@[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_comments show_avatar=”off” show_count=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ form_field_background_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0)” form_field_text_color=”#000000″ form_field_focus_background_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0)” title_font=”Bellefair||||||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_line_height=”1.2em” form_field_font=”Montserrat|600||on|||||” form_field_font_size=”11px” form_field_letter_spacing=”3px” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”11px” button_text_color=”#fff0ec” button_bg_color=”#000000″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_letter_spacing=”2px” button_font=”|700||on|||||” button_custom_padding=”20px|30px|20px|30px|true|true” border_radii_fields=”on|0px|0px|0px|0px” border_color_all_fields=”#000000″ border_width_bottom_fields=”1px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_bg_color__hover=”#ff4e00″ button_bg_color__hover_enabled=”on|desktop”][\/et_pb_comments][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
During my preparation for this trip, I have marked Hangzhou as one of the highlights of my trip. It is described as the most beautiful of the imperial capitals of China, it is very close to two amazing mountains \u2013 the famous Yellow Mountain (Huangshan) and the greatly underappreciated Sanqingshan, plus it has the only […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2227,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"1080","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[21],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2224","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-china"],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/platypus.hr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/15-Traditional-Chinese-Pharmacy.jpg?fit=2000%2C1500&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/platypus.hr\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2224","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/platypus.hr\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/platypus.hr\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/platypus.hr\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/platypus.hr\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2224"}],"version-history":[{"count":24,"href":"https:\/\/platypus.hr\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2224\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2762,"href":"https:\/\/platypus.hr\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2224\/revisions\/2762"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/platypus.hr\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2227"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/platypus.hr\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2224"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/platypus.hr\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2224"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/platypus.hr\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2224"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}