Journeys Await
As the New Year approaches, Aman destinations across the globe await discovery.
Experiences at Amanfayun
Situated on 14 hectares, Amanfayun lies within walking distance of Lingyin Temple, founded in 326 AD, and is just six kilometres from tranquil West Lake. This UNESCO World Heritage Site inspired the poets of old with its serene waters and countless pagodas. The resort is also only a 20-minute scenic drive from the centre of Hangzhou, along China’s tea and silk hub, described by Marco Polo as “the city of heaven”.
Cultural Immersion at Fayun Place
Learn Chinese arts ranging from calligraphy and paper cutting to tea tasting, listen to local musicians, and enjoy informative talks on topics as varied as Buddhism and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Dating back to the 1800s, the two-storey Fayun Place is the cultural heart of the village, and also offers complimentary snacks throughout the day.
Temple Trail
The spiritual landscape of Hangzhou is defined by its ancient temples—from the 1,700-year-old Lingyin Temple, renowned for its pagodas and grottos, to Lingshun Temple atop Northern Peak, long regarded as the first temple of the God of Wealth.
Entering the Lingyin and Feilaifeng scenic area is free of charge, with prior reservations required. Please search the for ‘mini-program’ (杭州灵隐飞来峰) on WeChat or Alipay to make a booking at 24-hours in advance. Bookings are available up to seven days ahead and opening hours are 7.30am until –5.30pm, with last entry permitted at 5pm.
West Lake
At its most peaceful in the early mornings, idyllic West Lake is dotted with bridges, pagodas and islands. A causeway allows one to stroll right across this UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its shores are lined with landscaped gardens. Spend a morning or late afternoon adrift on its tranquil waters, or cycle its shores.
Trek to Longjing Village
Hike through bamboo forests and scenic tea fields, crossing nine small streams on steppingstones, until you reach Longjing Village. Famous for its eponymous tea, this quaint village is always a hive of activity, especially in the spring, when you can join locals harvesting and roasting their specialist blend.
Hike to North Peak
Offering some of the most beautiful views in the area – all the way to West Lake – North Peak is 300 metres high and home to Lingshun Temple. Explore the forested grottoes of Feilai Feng and their secrets on your way to the top, and reward your efforts with refreshments on the temple’s stone viewing decks.
