The new water tour of West Lake explores the western edge of the iconic scenic spot in Hangzhou. [Photo/CFP]

Tourists who have always wanted to go on a boat ride around the West Lake can now do so via the new water bus route that was recently launched in Hangzhou.

In addition to visiting the famous "Ten Views of the West Lake", which includes scenic spots such as the Broken Bridge with Thawing Snow and Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, the new route also includes several little-known spots such as Mao's Family Port that allow visitors to explore the tranquil western edge of West Lake.

Tourists can get on and off the boat at any of the 10 stops on the route. The round tour takes around 90 minutes and comes with free commentary by the tour guides.

Ticket prices: 6 to 8 yuan per stop and 70 yuan ($10.94) for the full trip. Free entry for children who are under 1.2 meters in height. Ticket prices are halved for children who are between 1.2m and 1.5m in height.

Tourists can buy tickets at each stop or make reservations via the official WeChat account of West Lake Cruise (西湖游船).

Boats will depart every 30 minutes between 8:30 am and 3:30 pm from Nov 1 to March 31, and between 8:30 am and 4 pm from April 1 to Oct 31.