Hangzhou's West Lake exploration continues. Day one, we opt to walk when bicycle routes are actually busy road. Tombs of cultural heroes teach us new stories. 

Mountain monasteries leave us wondering why any woman would willingly climb hundreds of stairs in high heels and a miniskirt. All for the selfie. Yet, runners or heels, we both manage to reach the summit. Yellow buildings mingle with endless greenery.

Day two, we rent bicycles and overshoot our destination. Six Harmonies Pagoda, sleek and tall, welcomes our complaining calves with more stairs. The views reward us: a river and Hangzhou's slightly hazy skyline.