> How is it "not the Python way"? 

Because having an API within an API greatly complexifies the interface, making harder to implement, harder to understand, and harder to learn.

> Why is it okay to make `dict.keys` into a smart object
> but it's not okay to make `Counter.elements` a smart object?

That was the exception, not the rule.  For the most part,
we don't do multi-level APIs unless there is a *compelling*
reason.  In the case of dict views, there was already a
known successful model in Java using this API and Guido
liked it.  Subsequent experience in teaching Python shows
that people have a hard time grasping it as first.