Hangzhou Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Hangzhou, including lists of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, and more.


Introduction to Hangzhou

Hangzhou is the capital city of Zhejiang province and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in East China. Known for its beautiful natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, Hangzhou has been described as “paradise on earth” by many famous poets and travel writers. Its beautiful West Lake attracts millions of visitors each year.

List of Places to Visit in Hangzhou

Hangzhou has a lot to offer tourists. Here is a list of some of the most popular places to visit in Hangzhou:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hangzhou National Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Hangzhou and the surrounding region. It has a large collection of artifacts, including pottery, bronze ware, and ancient coins.
  • Leifeng Pagoda: This iconic pagoda is situated on the south side of West Lake and offers panoramic views of Hangzhou. It is also a popular spot for watching the West Lake Impression Show.
  • Lingyin Temple: This ancient temple is one of the largest and most renowned Buddhist temples in China. It features a variety of intricate carvings and statues and has several grottoes to explore.
  • Qinghefang Ancient Street: This street was once an important commercial district in ancient Hangzhou and has preserved its traditional buildings, shops, and markets.

Natural Attractions of Hangzhou: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • West Lake: This is Hangzhou’s most famous attraction and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and dotted with charming pagodas and gardens.
  • Xixi National Wetland Park: This natural reserve is located on the outskirts of the city and is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It covers an area of 11.5 square kilometers and has a diverse ecosystem with over 100 species of birds and fish.
  • Mount Putuo: Situated on an island off the coast of Hangzhou, Mount Putuo is one of the four sacred mountains of Chinese Buddhism. It has several temples and monasteries to visit and is also known for its beautiful scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hangzhou

Hangzhou has several hiking and biking trails that offer beautiful views of the city and its surrounding countryside. Here are a few popular routes:

  • West Lake Circle Cycling Route: This 15-kilometer route circles around the West Lake and passes by scenic spots such as the Leifeng Pagoda and the Su Causeway.
  • Qiantang River Cycling Route: This 60-kilometer route follows the winding path of the Qiantang River and passes through beautiful villages and towns.
  • Bamboo-lined Path at Yunqi: This scenic trail is located in the Yunqi Bamboo Forest and features a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

Best Things to Do in Hangzhou: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to do in Hangzhou. Here are some of the most popular:

  • West Lake Boat Tour: This leisurely boat tour takes visitors on a circuit around the West Lake and provides stunning views of the scenery and landmarks around the lake.
  • Tea Plantation Tour: Hangzhou is known for its Longjing tea, and a tour of a tea plantation allows visitors to experience the tea-making process and learn about this famous local product.
  • Impression West Lake Show: This spectacular outdoor performance features colorful lights, music, dancing, and acrobatics, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the West Lake.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hangzhou

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for Hangzhou:

Day Activity
1 Explore West Lake
2 Visit Lingyin Temple and Qinghefang Ancient Street
3 Take a bike ride around Qiantang River
4 Visit Xixi National Wetland Park
5 Tour a tea plantation
6 Hike up Mount Putuo
7 Relax at a local spa or hot spring

Food and Drink Scene of Hangzhou

Hangzhou has a diverse food and drink scene that includes local specialties and international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dongpo Pork: This is a regional specialty, which is made of pork belly, slow-cooked in soy sauce and wine.
  • Beggar’s Chicken: This is a dish where a whole chicken is stuffed with various seasonings, wrapped in lotus leaves and then baked in clay.
  • Longjing Shrimp: This is a dish made of shrimp sauteed with Longjing tea leaves.

Local Beverages

  • Longjing Tea: This is the most famous tea from the city, also known as Dragon Well Tea.
  • Wuyi Mineral Water: This is a famous bottled water from the Wuyi Mountains, known for its high mineral content.

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

Hangzhou has a variety of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some suggestions:

  • Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake: This luxurious hotel is located just steps away from the West Lake and offers magnificent lake views, lush gardens, and tranquil courtyards.
  • Hangzhou Touran Backpack Hostel: This hostel is a budget-friendly option for travelers and offers comfortable rooms and a great location in the city center.
  • Flower Inn - West Lake: This charming guesthouse is located near the West Lake and offers cozy rooms decorated in traditional Chinese style.

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

Hangzhou is known for its silk products, tea, and porcelain. Here are some suggestions for souvenirs to bring home:

  • Longjing Tea: Buy authentic Longjing tea to take home to friends and family.
  • Hangzhou Silk: Buy silk scarves, clothing, and other products made from Hangzhou silk.
  • Porcelain: Buy beautiful porcelain vases, dishes, and other decorative items from local shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Hangzhou

Hangzhou has a rich cultural heritage and several unique customs that visitors should be aware of. Here are a few:

  • Dragon Boat Festival: This festival celebrates the life and accomplishments of Qu Yuan, a famous poet and politician in ancient China. People race dragon boats and eat zongzi, a kind of sticky rice dumpling.
  • West Lake Impression Show: This outdoor light and sound performance takes place nightly on the West Lake and showcases the beauty and culture of Hangzhou.
  • Longjing Tea Ceremony: This is a traditional tea ceremony in which tea is brewed and served to guests with great care and attention to detail.

Best Time to Visit Hangzhou

The best time to visit Hangzhou is in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is mild and pleasant during these seasons, and the scenery is at its most beautiful. However, it is worth noting that the city can be crowded with tourists during these times.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hangzhou

Here are a few things to keep in mind when visiting Hangzhou:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local food and drinks.
  • Explore the city’s natural scenery and cultural heritage.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful to elders and authority figures.
  • Damage historical and cultural sites.
  • Engage in illegal or unethical behavior.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hangzhou

Hangzhou is a generally safe city, and violent crime is rare. However, visitors should be mindful of pickpocketing and other petty crimes in crowded areas.

Health in Hangzhou

Visitors to Hangzhou should be aware of the local food and water and take necessary precautions. It is recommended to drink bottled water and avoid uncooked or unpasteurized food.

Getting to Hangzhou: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hangzhou is well connected to other major cities in China and can be reached by air, train, or bus. Here are some details on how to get to the city:

Airports Near Hangzhou

  • Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport: This is the primary airport serving Hangzhou and is located in the southwest of the city.

Bus Stations Near Hangzhou

  • Hangzhou South Bus Station: This is the largest bus station in the city and serves destinations throughout Zhejiang province.
  • Hangzhou West Bus Station: This bus station serves locations in the western part of the city and other cities in the region.

Other Options

  • Train: Hangzhou is located on the Shanghai-Hangzhou High-Speed Railway line, and trains run frequently between the two cities.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout the city and are a convenient way to get around.

How to Get Around in Hangzhou

Hangzhou has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, the metro, and taxis. Bicycles and electric scooters are also available for rent.

Where to Go Next from Hangzhou: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hangzhou is located in a beautiful region of China, and there are many other popular destinations nearby. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Shanghai: Located just 200 kilometers northeast of Hangzhou, Shanghai is one of the most populous cities in China and is famous for its modern skyscrapers and historical landmarks.
  • Suzhou: This city is known for its beautiful canals, gardens, and silk products and is located just a short train ride from Hangzhou.
  • Huangshan: This is one of China’s most famous mountains and is renowned for its stunning scenery and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Hangzhou is a beautiful and culturally-rich city in East China that is definitely worth visiting. With its natural scenery, historical sites, and delicious food and drink, there is something for everyone in Hangzhou. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to Hangzhou and that you have a wonderful time exploring this fascinating city.

View over West Lake View over West Lake Hangzhou in China Hangzhou in China A high-speed train at Hangzhou Railway Station (Chengzhan, 城站) A high-speed train at Hangzhou Railway Station (Chengzhan, 城站) Hangzhou Metro Hangzhou Metro Bicycles you can rent from Hangzhou's bike system; they aren't the best for anyone over 6 ft, but they include a lock. Bicycles you can rent from Hangzhou's bike system; they aren't the best for anyone over 6 ft, but they include a lock. Sitting on a bench, overlooking West Lake Sitting on a bench, overlooking West Lake The remains of the western city wall of Liangzhu The remains of the western city wall of Liangzhu Maitreya and disciples carving in Feilai Feng Caves Maitreya and disciples carving in Feilai Feng Caves The Song Dynasty Liuhe Pagoda, built in 1165 The Song Dynasty Liuhe Pagoda, built in 1165