Top Attractions

West Lake

• Type: Scenic Area, Historical Site
• Recommended Length of Visit: Half a day to a full day
• Activities: Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, enjoy a boat ride, visit the surrounding temples and gardens, and watch the sunset.
• Tip: The lake is beautiful all year round, but the spring and autumn seasons offer the most pleasant weather for visiting.

Lingyin Temple

• Type: Historic Site, Religious Site
• Recommended Length of Visit: 2-3 hours
• Tickets: 75 RMB/person on season; 45 RMB/person off season
• Address: No.1 Fayun Alley, Lingyin Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou
• Highlights: One of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in China, with a history dating back to AD 326. Don’t miss the impressive Buddhist sculptures at Feilai Peak.

Longjing Tea Plantation

• Type: Tea Village
• Recommended Length of Visit: 2-5 hours
• Address: Longjing Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou
• Activities: Wander through tea terraces, observe tea production processes, and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Longjing tea. Longjing Village and Meijiawu Village are top choices for tea enthusiasts.

Hefang Street

• Type: Ancient Street
• Recommended Length of Visit: 2-3 hours
• Tickets: Free
• Address: Hefang Street, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou
• Highlights: A well-preserved ancient street dating back to the Southern Song Dynasty, offering a glimpse into traditional architecture and local snacks.

Xixi National Wetland Park

• Type: Natural Scenic Area
• Recommended Length of Visit: 3-4 hours
• Activities: Take a boat tour to explore the wetlands and enjoy the peaceful natural scenery.

Local Cuisine

• Dongpo Pork: A famous Hangzhou dish with pork belly simmered in a savory sauce until tender.
• West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy: A delicate fish dish with a sweet and sour sauce.
• Beggar’s Chicken: Chicken wrapped in lotus leaves and baked, known for its unique flavor and tenderness.
• Hangzhou Fried Rice: A variation of fried rice with local ingredients and seasonings.

Transportation Tips

• High-Speed Train: The most convenient way to travel from Shanghai to Hangzhou, taking only about 1 hour.
• Local Transportation: Hangzhou has an efficient public transport system, including buses and subways, which is easy and affordable to use.

Tour Recommendations

• 2 Days Hangzhou Sightseeing Tour with Cycling Fun: Explore the main attractions of Hangzhou, including West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and Hefang Street.
• 3 Days Classic Hangzhou Tour Plus Tea Plantation Exploration: Dive deeper into Hangzhou’s culture and history with visits to tea plantations and other significant sites.

Additional Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Hangzhou’s outdoor attractions.
• Language: Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your experience and communication with locals.
• Payment: Mobile payments are widely used in China. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay before your trip for convenience.

Hangzhou, known as “Heaven on Earth,” combines stunning natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or cuisine, Hangzhou offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Enjoy your journey!