Hangzhou is a beautiful city- the first blue sky we have seen since we’ve been in China!  There is little smog here like the other cities.  West Lake is so nice we took a trip to the top of a man made escalator/elevator “pagoda” to get a beautiful view of the city.  It rained a bit but it was nice because it cooled off the air. 

The next day we had a very busy long day around the city.  I like this city the best so far out of all the places I’ve been.  I never thought I’d miss the blue sky as much as I did.  We went to West Lake again to take a boat cruise.  

Then we went to a tea plantation to see how green tea is grown and harvested.  They don't use tea bags in China- they think it is the equivalent of drinking instant coffee.  I have tried a few types of tea with the leaves or flowers floating in the cup but I don't like it very much.  I bought a little so we can all try it at home.