Zhejiang Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture in Zhejiang with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Zhejiang

Located in East China, Zhejiang is a region of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by the East China Sea on the east coast, Zhejiang is blessed with breathtaking coastal landscapes, as well as picturesque water towns, ancient temples, and towering mountain ranges. With a history dating back thousands of years, travelers to Zhejiang can experience the region’s deep cultural roots through its museums, temples, and other historical landmarks.

List of Places to Visit in Zhejiang

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural attractions, Zhejiang has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-see places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hangzhou National Museum of China: This museum houses a vast collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts, including ceramics, bronze, jade, and calligraphy.
  • Shaoxing East Lake National Scenic Area: Located in the city of Shaoxing, this scenic area features a tranquil lake surrounded by temples, gardens, and traditional architecture.
  • Xihu Longjing Tea Cultural Village: For centuries, Hangzhou’s Longjing tea has been considered some of the finest in China. Visitors can learn about tea culture and sample the local brew at this interactive museum.

Natural Attractions of Zhejiang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Qiandao Lake: This man-made lake covers an area of over 570 square kilometers and is surrounded by lush forested hills. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, and fishing.
  • Tianmu Mountain: Located in western Zhejiang, this stunning mountain range is known for its diverse flora and fauna, as well as its hot springs and hiking trails.
  • Nanxi River: This scenic river valley features crystal-clear waterfalls and pools, as well as towering cliffs and lush greenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zhejiang

For those who enjoy hiking and biking, Zhejiang is a paradise with numerous trails and routes to explore. Some of the best include:

  • The West Lake Scenic Area: This area features a 15-kilometer biking route that takes you along the scenic lake and through some of Hangzhou’s charming neighborhoods.
  • Thousand Islets Lake: This area offers over 40 kilometers of cycling trails, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
  • The Xianghu Lake Scenic Area: This area is known for its well-maintained hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

Best Things to Do in Zhejiang: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for things to do in Zhejiang, there are plenty of engaging activities and tours to choose from. Some of the most popular include:

  • Tai Chi Class: Tai chi is a traditional Chinese martial art that emphasizes slow, fluid movements and deep breathing. Visitors can take a class with a trained instructor and experience the calming effects of this ancient art form.
  • West Lake Cruise: Take a leisurely boat ride around Hangzhou’s famed West Lake and enjoy the stunning scenery.
  • Tea Picking and Tasting Tour: Zhejiang is known for its fine teas, and visitors can learn about the tea-making process and experience a tea tasting at local tea plantations.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zhejiang

Here is an example of a week-long itinerary for Zhejiang:

Day 1 Arrive in Hangzhou, explore West Lake
Day 2 Visit Hangzhou National Museum of China, take a Tai Chi class
Day 3 Travel to Shaoxing, explore East Lake Scenic Area
Day 4 Visit Xihu Longjing Tea Cultural Village, take a tea tasting tour
Day 5 Travel to Thousand Islets Lake, go biking
Day 6 Hike in Nanxi River Scenic Area, visit Tianmu Mountain
Day 7 Depart from Hangzhou

Food and Drink Scene of Zhejiang

No visit to Zhejiang would be complete without experiencing the region’s rich gastronomic traditions. Here are some of the best foods and beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish Head Soup: This traditional dish is made with fresh fish head, ginger, and other aromatic spices.
  • Dongpo Pork: This dish is named after a famous Chinese poet and politician and features slow-cooked, succulent pork belly.
  • Beggar’s Chicken: A whole chicken stuffed with herbs and roasted inside lotus leaves.

Local Beverages

  • Longjing Tea: This famous green tea is grown in the hills surrounding Hangzhou and is known for its delicate flavor and aroma.
  • Xiao Shaoxing Yellow Wine: This sweet rice wine is produced in the city of Shaoxing and is a popular beverage in traditional Chinese cuisine.

Where to Stay in Zhejiang: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Zhejiang offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. Here are some recommended options:

  • Hangzhou Shangri-La: This luxury hotel is located on the shore of West Lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Shaoxing Xianheng Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the heart of Shaoxing’s historic old town and features traditional Chinese architecture and decor.
  • Qiandao Lake Luxun Native Place: This guesthouse is located on the shores of Qiandao Lake and offers comfortable accommodation in a peaceful setting.

What to Buy in Zhejiang: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Zhejiang is known for its fine products and souvenirs, including:

  • Tea: Longjing tea is a popular souvenir and can be found in most markets and tea shops around Hangzhou.
  • Silk: Zhejiang province is known for its high-quality silk products, including clothing and accessories.
  • Xianghu Crayfish: This local delicacy can be found in many restaurants and shops throughout Zhejiang.

Local Culture and Customs of Zhejiang

Zhejiang has a rich cultural heritage and many customs and traditions that visitors can learn about and experience firsthand. Some important cultural customs of Zhejiang include:

  • Dragon Boat Festival: This traditional festival occurs in early summer and features dragon boat races, as well as the consumption of traditional foods like zongzi (sticky rice wrapped in bamboo leaves).
  • Garden-Style Living: The traditional architecture of Zhejiang places great importance on harmony with the natural environment. Many homes and buildings feature lush gardens and courtyards.
  • Tea Culture: Zhejiang is known for its tea culture, which emphasizes the enjoyment and appreciation of tea as a social and cultural activity.

Best Time to Visit Zhejiang

The best time to visit Zhejiang depends on your interests and travel goals. Generally, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit for comfortable weather conditions and stunning scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be chilly and damp.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zhejiang

Here are some important do’s and don’ts for visitors to Zhejiang:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Dress appropriately for religious sites and other cultural landmarks

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing or inappropriate clothing in public places
  • Touch or remove artifacts at museums or historic sites
  • Photograph local people without their permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Zhejiang

Zhejiang is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should be aware of the following safety concerns:

  • Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded tourist areas.
  • The mountainous areas of Zhejiang can be hazardous, especially during inclement weather.

Health in Zhejiang

Visitors to Zhejiang should take the following health precautions:

  • Drink only bottled or boiled water
  • Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses
  • Be aware of the risk of altitude sickness when hiking in the mountains

Getting to Zhejiang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Zhejiang is relatively easy, with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Zhejiang

  • Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport: This airport is the main gateway to Zhejiang and is serviced by numerous domestic and international airlines.

Bus Stations Near Zhejiang

  • Hangzhou East Bus Station: This station offers regular bus services to destinations throughout Zhejiang province.
  • Shaoxing Bus Station: This station is a major transportation hub for the city of Shaoxing.

Other Options

  • High-Speed Rail: Zhejiang is connected to the national high-speed rail network, making it easy to travel to nearby cities and provinces.
  • Taxis and Private Cars: Taxis and private car services are widely available throughout Zhejiang.

How to Get Around in Zhejiang

Zhejiang is relatively easy to get around in, with several transportation options available.

  • Public Buses: Public buses and trains offer affordable transportation throughout Zhejiang.
  • Taxis and Private Cars: Taxis and private car services are widely available, especially in urban areas.
  • Biking and Hiking: Biking and hiking are popular ways to explore Zhejiang’s beautiful natural landscapes.

Where to Go Next from Zhejiang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Zhejiang is surrounded by many other fascinating destinations that are well worth a visit. Some popular nearby destinations include:

  • Shanghai: China’s largest city is just a short train ride away from Zhejiang and offers a wealth of culture and entertainment options.
  • Fujian Province: Located to the south of Zhejiang, Fujian province features stunning mountain landscapes and historic architecture.
  • The Yellow Mountains: This mountain range is located north of Zhejiang and is known for its breathtaking scenery and unique rock formations.

Conclusion

Zhejiang is a region of immense natural beauty and cultural significance. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture, Zhejiang is a must-see destination for anyone traveling to China. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply sampling the local cuisine, Zhejiang has something to offer everyone.

Location in China Location in China Yu'ao, a typical fishing village on the rugged coast of the Dayu Bay, in Zhejiang's southernmost Cangnan County. Yu'ao, a typical fishing village on the rugged coast of the Dayu Bay, in Zhejiang's southernmost Cangnan County. Jianglangshan Jianglangshan


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