If you’ve been craving for a floral escape, Maojiapu, often called “Little West Lake,” is a dreamy land. February orchids have taken over the area, blanketing the edges of forests, waterfronts, and stone steps in a dense sea of blue-purple blooms. It’s like stepping into a secret garden where the tranquil green waters are enveloped by a tapestry of petals, creating a scene that practically hums with spring energy.

Lately, this lesser-known spot west of the West Lake has been gaining traction, thanks to a boutique boat route that highlights the area’s watery charms. The “Maoxiang Waterfront” tour, in particular, has drawn visitors looking for a more serene slice of Hangzhou’s lake culture.

The round-lake travel route is a right pick, with its starting point “Maoxiang Shuiqing (Du Jinsheng’s Former Residence)” right at the heart of the scene. The full route takes in classic landmarks like Tingwan Qishe (the First Park), Hubin Qingyu (the Fifth Park), Duanqiao Canxue (Children’s Palace), Pinghu Qiuyue (Zhongshan Park), Huahao Yueyuan (the General Yue’s Memorial), Quyuan Fenghe (Guo’s Villa), Maoxiang Shuiqing (Du Jinsheng’s Former Residence), Huagang Guanyu, Shiba Xiang Song (the Long Bridge), and Qianci Biaozhong (King Qian’s Memorial). Boarding points include the First Park, the Fifth Park, Children’s Palace, Zhongshan Park, the General Yue’s Memorial, Yinxiu Bridge, Du Jinsheng’s Former Residence, Huagang Guanyu, Shuinan Banyin, and King Qian’s Memorial. Boats run daily from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, though schedules may be slightly adjusted based on passenger flow and operational needs—please check at the dock before setting off. In case of rough weather, services will follow the latest guidance from the West Lake Water Management Authority.

February orchids have a long blooming season, and they’re currently at their peak. Besides Maojiapu, visitors can also spot them along Yanggong Dike and near Guishuitan. The park has a gentle reminder for flower lovers: as tempting as it might be to step closer, please don’t enter the fenced-off areas. Let your eyes—and your camera lenses—do the admiring.