Things To Do
in Hangzhou

Hangzhou is a historic city in eastern China famed for the scenic West Lake, classical gardens, and lush tea terraces. It blends well-preserved traditional sites with modern shopping streets, a vibrant tech scene, and high-quality dining. The surrounding hills and waterways offer easy access to nature while the city center features museums, temples, and bustling markets.

Visitors come for its picturesque vistas, cultural depth, and relaxed pace compared with bigger coastal megacities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
West Lake Exploration
morning
:

Begin with a gentle stroll along Su Causeway as the sun rises over the shimmering water, taking in the misty views of willow trees leaning over the lake. Stop by the Broken Bridge to appreciate the romantic legend behind its name and capture photos of the lotus blooms. Continue toward the Bai Causeway to watch rowers practice and absorb the tranquil ambiance.

afternoon
:

Board a traditional wooden boat at the Boat Station and glide to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, observing the miniature pagodas that emerge at high tide. Wander through the lush gardens of Yuefei Temple on the lake’s southern shore and learn about the famed general’s story. Pause at a lakeside tea house to savor a pot of Longjing green tea with light refreshments.

evening
:

Attend the spectacular Impression West Lake outdoor performance, where dancers and light effects play out on the water’s surface beneath Leifeng Pagoda. After the show, stroll along the lakeside promenade with twinkling lanterns overhead. End the evening with a lakeside dinner of Hangzhou specialties like Beggar’s Chicken and West Lake vinegar fish.

day 2
Lingyin Temple Pilgrimage
morning
:

Set out early for Lingyin Temple, one of China’s most revered Buddhist sites, nestled in a verdant valley. Walk through the Thousand- Buddha Hall, admiring the intricate carvings and large bronze statues. Feel the peaceful atmosphere as incense drifts through silent courtyards.

afternoon
:

Hike up to Feilai Peak to see ancient stone grottoes and Buddhist reliefs carved into the rock face over a thousand years ago. Explore the surrounding forest trails, stopping at hidden pavilions for glimpses of temple bells in the distance. Enjoy a simple temple-style vegetarian lunch at a nearby teahouse.

evening
:

Return to Hangzhou for a relaxing foot massage at a traditional parlor near West Lake. Head to a cozy tea house by the water for an evening tea ceremony featuring local varietals. Reflect on the day’s spiritual journey while watching the lantern-lit reflections ripple on the lake.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-8
☕️Coffee (regular)$2.5-5
🚇Public transit (single ride)$0.30-0.80
🚕Taxi (start fare / 3 km)$2.5-4
🏨Mid-range hotel (per night)$40-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic, UNESCO-recognized landscapes (West Lake, tea terraces) and rich cultural heritage
  • Excellent tea culture and unique local cuisine
  • Good mix of nature and urban amenities with high-quality museums and parks
  • Convenient transport links to Shanghai and regional hubs
  • Hot, humid summers and a rainy plum-rain season can disrupt plans
  • Busy tourist spots can be crowded during peak season and holidays
  • Mobile-payment ecosystem may require setup for convenience at many vendors
  • Some English-language signage and service can be limited outside major hotels and attractions
  • "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
  • "谢谢 (Xièxie)" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里? (Qǐngwèn cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
  • "这个多少钱? (Zhège duōshǎo qián?)" - How much is this?
  • "我不吃肉 / 我吃素 (Wǒ bù chī ròu / Wǒ chī sù)" - I don't eat meat / I am vegetarian
  • "帮我叫车 (Bāng wǒ jiào chē)" - Please call me a taxi
  • "救命!(Jiùmìng!)" - Help!

Places to Visit in Hangzhou

Visit one of these nice places.

West Lake (Xihu)

Iconic vistas with pagodas, bridges, willow-lined causeways, and reflective water—ideal for sunrise, misty mornings, and sunset shots.

Leifeng Pagoda

Historic pagoda offering panoramic views of West Lake and the city; photogenic at golden hour and when lit at night.

Broken Bridge and Su Causeway

Famous lake scenes with seasonal variations—cherry blossoms in spring, lotus in summer, and misty autumn mornings.

Longjing Tea Terraces

Rolling green tea fields and traditional tea-pickers provide scenic rural photos and cultural portraits; best early morning with light fog.

Qinghefang Historic Street

Old merchant architecture, narrow alleys, colorful shopfronts, and street-food stalls—great for street and cultural photography.

Xixi Wetland Park

Natural channels, wooden walkways, and birdlife offer tranquil nature photography opportunities, especially during migratory seasons.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hangzhou

Hangzhou cuisine (Zhejiang cuisine, one of the Eight Culinary Traditions) emphasizes fresh local ingredients, light flavors, mellow sweetness, and elegant presentation—highlighting freshwater fish, seasonal vegetables, and high-quality Longjing tea.

Hangzhou Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy (Xihu Cuishui Yu)

A signature Hangzhou dish—tender freshwater fish cooked with a sweet-and-sour sauce; widely served at traditional restaurants around the lake.

Must-Try!

Dongpo Pork

Rich braised pork belly named after the poet Su Dongpo; melt-in-your-mouth texture usually served in small portions — available in many mid- to high-end eateries.

Longjing Shrimp

Lightly cooked river shrimp infused with Longjing tea leaves for a delicate aroma—best at tea houses and restaurants near the tea terraces.

Beggar's Chicken

Whole chicken stuffed and wrapped (often in lotus leaves), then baked or steamed—traditional and theatrical presentation in specialty restaurants.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Qinghefang Historic Street

A lively pedestrian street with decades-old shops and stalls selling sweet osmanthus cakes, stinky tofu, sugar-coated hawthorn (tanghulu), and local pastries—great for sampling snacks while exploring.

Huanglong Night Market / Nanshan Road Stalls

Evening street-food options with skewers, dumplings, fried snacks, and local desserts; perfect for casual late-night tasting.

Hubin Food Area

Cluster of restaurants and cafés near West Lake offering both refined Zhejiang cuisine and international options; good for trying regional specialties with lake views.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hangzhou has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons: hot, humid summers with frequent rainfall; mild, wet springs; comfortable, clear autumns; and cool, damp winters. Rainfall peaks in early summer (plum rain season) and typhoon-related storms can bring heavy rain and wind in late summer. Average temperatures range from near freezing in winter to low 30s°C (upper 80s–90s°F) in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Respect

Handshakes are common in business; a small nod or slight bow is polite. Address older people or hosts with respect and use surnames plus titles when appropriate.

Queuing and Public Behavior

Queuing is expected at formal lines (transit, bank counters), but in crowded tourist spots lines may be fluid—be patient and polite. Keep noise levels moderate on public transport.

Dining Customs

Communal dining is common—dishes are shared from the center of the table. Wait for the host to start eating in formal settings; try a bit of everything when invited and use both hands when offering or receiving items as a sign of respect.

Photography and Religion

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in temples or private spaces. Be respectful at religious sites—dress modestly and follow posted rules.

Gift Giving and Business Etiquette

Gifts may be exchanged in business or formal social settings; avoid overly expensive gifts on first meetings and present and receive with both hands. Avoid gifting clocks or sharp objects, which have negative connotations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hangzhou is generally safe for travelers with low violent crime rates; petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas—keep valuables secure. Be cautious crossing streets as traffic can be fast and drivers may not always yield; follow local road rules when cycling. Check weather alerts in rainy season and follow official guidance for typhoon-related disruption. Carry emergency contacts and ensure travel insurance covers medical evacuation if needed.

Tipping in Hangzhou

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not a widespread custom in China; service charges may be included in upscale hotels or restaurants, and leaving small change is uncommon. For exceptional service, a discreet small tip or a gift is appreciated but not expected.

Payment Methods

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) dominate everyday transactions—installing and linking an international card or using cash/conversion services helps. Credit cards are accepted at many hotels, international restaurants, and larger stores, but small vendors often prefer mobile pay or cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and frequent light rain; blossoms and fresh tea shoots make it a picturesque time to visit. Bring a light rain jacket and an umbrella for occasional showers and morning mist.

Summer

Hot, humid, and rainy—June to August sees heavy rainfall and occasional typhoon influence; summer festivals and lotus blooms on West Lake are highlights. Stay hydrated, wear breathable clothing, and plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings.

Autumn

Clear, comfortable weather with pleasant temperatures—often considered the best season for sightseeing, photography, and tea-tasting. Pack layers for cooler mornings and evenings.

Winter

Chilly, damp winters with occasional cold snaps and rare snow; heating indoors can be inconsistent in older buildings. Bring warm, water-resistant layers and expect fewer tourists at major sites.

Nightlife Guide

Hangzhou at Night

Hangzhou's nightlife mixes relaxed lakeside dining and bars near West Lake with lively neighborhoods (e.g., Hefang, Wulin, Gongshu) offering pubs, live-music venues, and late-night cafés. The waterfront Hubin area has upscale bars and lounges with views while smaller lanes host intimate music bars and teahouses; performances like Impression West Lake provide a cultural evening option.

Hiking in Hangzhou

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Moganshan

Famous bamboo-covered mountain range about 1.5–2 hours away—offers trails of varying difficulty, historic villas, cool summer temperatures, and scenic viewpoints.

Nine Creeks and Eighteen Gullies (Jiuxi & Shiba Gou)

Forest and stream trails near the outskirts providing shaded hikes, waterfalls, and natural scenery often less crowded than main tourist sites.

Feiying Peak and Bamboo Groves near Tianmu Mountain

Options for moderate day hikes with panoramic views and dense bamboo forests—suitable for photography and nature escapes.

Dragon Well (Longjing) Hills

Short scenic walks around tea terraces with gentle elevation, ideal for combining hiking with tea-tasting and village visits.

Airports

How to reach Hangzhou by plane.

Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH)

Primary airport serving Hangzhou with domestic and international flights; about 30–45 minutes from central Hangzhou by taxi or airport express bus and connected by metro line for convenient access.

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

Approximately 1.5–2 hours by road or high-speed rail from Hangzhou; convenient alternative for some international flights and well-connected to the city by rail and highway.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

Major international hub serving more flights and airlines; roughly 2–3 hours by road or rail transfer, depending on traffic and connections.

Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG)

Regional airport located about 2–2.5 hours away by road or rail—an occasional alternative for regional connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Central Hangzhou, especially around West Lake, Qinghefang, and Hubin, is highly walkable with pedestrian pathways, parks, and promenades. The city center offers compact neighborhoods suitable for walking, but suburban attractions and tea terraces may require public transport or taxis. Prepare for some uneven historic sidewalks and use caution in wet weather.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Hangzhou, comprising most of the population with deep local cultural traditions and dialect influences.

Students and Young Professionals

Large population associated with universities (e.g., Zhejiang University) and growing tech/entrepreneur communities—contributes to a vibrant café and startup scene.

Migrant Workers and New Residents

People from other provinces who have moved for jobs in manufacturing, services, and the tech sector—diversifies the city's cultural and culinary offerings.

Older Generations and Local Families

Long-term residents who maintain traditional customs, local businesses, and community life, visible in teahouses, markets, and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Very popular recreational and spectator sport across China, with many community courts and local leagues in Hangzhou.

Dragon Boat Racing

Traditional water sport seen on local waterways and during festivals; teams compete on rivers and lakes, reflecting regional cultural heritage.

Table Tennis and Badminton

Widely played indoor sports with many community centers and clubs where residents participate recreationally and competitively.

Football (Soccer)

Growing interest with local youth teams and community matches; public fields and school programs are common.

Transportation

Traffic

Rush hour traffic can be heavy on major roads and ring roads; public buses and an expanding metro network (multiple lines) offer reliable alternatives to avoid congestion. Bike-sharing and e-bikes are popular for short trips but watch busy intersections and pedestrian density. Ride-hailing apps (Didi) provide convenient door-to-door travel, though surge pricing may apply during peak times or bad weather.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hangzhou.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Pure vegetarian options exist, especially in Buddhist-style restaurants and some tea houses; ask for 'su' (素) dishes and confirm no fish stock is used. Many vegetable-forward dishes and tofu preparations are available, but watch for hidden meat-based broths.

Vegan

Vegan options are more limited; major restaurants and higher-end places can accommodate with advance notice. Use the phrase 'wo bu he rou, wo chi su' and point to dishes you want—apps with translation help are useful.

Halal / Religious Restrictions

There are halal restaurants and Muslim-friendly eateries in the city; check listings in advance. For strict observers, stick to seafood and vegetable dishes in non-halal restaurants may still be prepared with non-halal ingredients—ask to be sure.

Allergies

Food labeling may be limited in small vendors—carry translation cards listing allergens in Chinese and consider dining in larger restaurants that can accommodate requests.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Hangzhou has modern hospitals and clinics, including university-affiliated hospitals (e.g., Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital) that provide high-quality care and some English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common and stock basic medicines; bring prescriptions and international travel insurance to cover treatment costs. For emergencies dial 120 for medical, 110 for police; keep a local phone number and address of your accommodation handy.

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