Hangzhou Travel Guide
Hangzhou is the capital of Zhejiang Province and the local political, economic and cultural center. As the southern terminus of the Grand Canal, the city is located on the lower reaches of the Qiantang River in southeast China, a superior position in the Yangtze Delta and only 112 mi (180 km) from Shanghai.
The subtropical monsoon climate contributes to varied seasonal sceneries, making Hangzhou one of China's most popular travel destinations.
The West Lake is undoubtedly the most renowned landmark, noted for the scenic beauty that blends naturally with many famous historical and cultural sites. The "Ten West Lake Prospects" selected from the most frequently visited attractions around the lake give travelers a panoramic view of the city’s highlights. Take a stroll along the causeway by the lake; you’ll feel the peaceful ethos of the city and better understand its time-honored fame as 'Heaven on Earth'.
The subtropical monsoon climate contributes to varied seasonal sceneries, making Hangzhou one of China's most popular travel destinations.
The West Lake is undoubtedly the most renowned landmark, noted for the scenic beauty that blends naturally with many famous historical and cultural sites. The "Ten West Lake Prospects" selected from the most frequently visited attractions around the lake give travelers a panoramic view of the city’s highlights. Take a stroll along the causeway by the lake; you’ll feel the peaceful ethos of the city and better understand its time-honored fame as 'Heaven on Earth'.
Recommended Tours
Hangzhou has direct and frequent flights with major cities in China and also some international destinations, including Paris, Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, and Bangkok. It is within the fast transport network of east China, and enjoys convenient high-speed rail and highway connection with popular tourist cities in this area, like Shanghai, Suzhou and Nanjing.
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One of the most important parts of traveling is tasting the delicacies. The local dishes are noted for their elaborate preparation, sophisticated cooking and refreshing taste. Many local specialties will be sure to make your visit an exciting experience. It is recommended to try the Beggar's Chicken (a chicken baked in clay), West Lake Fish in Sweet Sour Source (vinegar coated fish fresh caught from the lake), Dongpo Pork (braised pork) and Fried Shrimps with Longjing Tea.
Shopping in the city is convenient. Visitors like to go to Qinghefang Street. It is one of the most famous and historic streets in the city and reflects the features of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279). Shoppers can admire the antique buildings while purchasing items from a wide range of local goods such as silk, brocade, tea or maybe a beautiful fan.
At night, the city has much to offer. Teahouses and various kinds of bars are both popular. Choosing one overlooking the West Lake for a pleasant chat over a cup of tea is sure to make you feel totally relaxed and refreshed.
Subregion
Fast facts and practical tips listed in this section will sure facilitate your travel, business, study or life in the city.
- 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit
- Area Code & Zip Code
- Useful Phone Numbers
- Festivals
- Famous Universities
- Post Office
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- Last updated on Apr. 15, 2024 by Brenda Lian -
Questions & Answers on Hangzhou Travel
Asked by Dr Humayun Mohmand from PAKISTAN | Apr. 29, 2024 04:06
Reply
ReplyNeed guidance for 5 days trip plan in June 9-15
Hi
I am travelling to Hangzhou in June this year. I need to know things I can do in or around Hangzhou, even if I have to take 2-3 hour trip to some near by areas.
The above answer by Rita is good, but can some one give me a good plan
I am already taking a night time boat trip,
Would appreciate the help.
Last thing, DO they accept cash? if yes US$ or CNY?
regards
Humayun
I am travelling to Hangzhou in June this year. I need to know things I can do in or around Hangzhou, even if I have to take 2-3 hour trip to some near by areas.
The above answer by Rita is good, but can some one give me a good plan
I am already taking a night time boat trip,
Would appreciate the help.
Last thing, DO they accept cash? if yes US$ or CNY?
regards
Humayun
Answers (1)
Answered by Keith | Apr. 29, 2024 20:58
0
0Reply
00ReplyJust a reference for you:
Day 1: West Lake, Hefang Street. Ligyin Temple
Day 2: Xixi National Wetland Park
Day 3: Take a train at Linping South Railway Station to Yanguan to appreciate the Qiantang Tidal Wave.
Day 4: Wuzhen day tour
Day 5: Qiandao Island day tour
Usually they accept CNY cash.
Day 1: West Lake, Hefang Street. Ligyin Temple
Day 2: Xixi National Wetland Park
Day 3: Take a train at Linping South Railway Station to Yanguan to appreciate the Qiantang Tidal Wave.
Day 4: Wuzhen day tour
Day 5: Qiandao Island day tour
Usually they accept CNY cash.
Asked by Chiew from SINGAPORE | Apr. 14, 2024 08:19Reply
ReplyItinerary
Anyone can advise what is the best itinerary for Hangzhou? I will visit to Hangzhou in mid-June with my family including my mom for 6 days. Thank you.
Answers (2)
Answered by Rita | Apr. 15, 2024 23:3200Reply
00ReplyIt takes time to plan a 6-day itinerary, but I can recommend some must-go places and attractions for your choice:
West Lake, Hefang Street, Lingyin Temple (may be covered one day)
Da Ma Nong (for foods)
The Grand Canal, Tangqi Ancient Town (along the canal)
China National Silk Museum
Qiantang River
Xixi National Wetland Park
Thousand Islets Lake (Qiandao Lake)
Tiantai Mountain Scenic Area
Wuzhen Water Town in nearby Jiaxing City
West Lake, Hefang Street, Lingyin Temple (may be covered one day)
Da Ma Nong (for foods)
The Grand Canal, Tangqi Ancient Town (along the canal)
China National Silk Museum
Qiantang River
Xixi National Wetland Park
Thousand Islets Lake (Qiandao Lake)
Tiantai Mountain Scenic Area
Wuzhen Water Town in nearby Jiaxing City
Answered by Chiew | Apr. 29, 2024 19:0400Reply
00ReplyThanks Rita for the itinerary.
Asked by Chiew from SINGAPORE | Apr. 14, 2024 08:16Reply
ReplyTransportation
I will visit Hangzhou in mid June with family and will stay in SSAW Boutique Hotel Hangzhou East (Huihe SSAW Hotel). Can I take train from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport T4 to the hotel? Is it convenient? Appreciate your advice.
Answers (2)
Answered by Keith | Apr. 15, 2024 23:2000Reply
00ReplyYou can take metro line 19 at the airport to Yicheng, get out from Exit C2 and walk eastward along Yicheng Rd. for about 1km to get to the hotel.
Answered by Chiew CW | Apr. 29, 2024 19:0300Reply
00ReplyHi Keith, thanks for the info.
Asked by Marie from NETHERLANDS | Mar. 21, 2024 15:55Reply
ReplyHow do I commute in Hangzhou using metro and bus? Which app should I use for route planning?
Answers (1)
Answered by Lori | Mar. 22, 2024 00:4700Reply
00ReplyYou can download the app Amap to your cellphone and use its English version. Wish you a great trip in Hangzhou~
Asked by JC from MALAYSIA | Mar. 07, 2024 21:10Reply
ReplyTaxi and High Speed Train Ticket
1. I'll be arriving at Hangzhou airport quite late (11 March) - 10.30 pm. As it'll be my first time there, how can I get a taxi to my hotel in Jinjiang Metropolo Hangzhou East Station? How much approximately is the taxi fare? Do the taxi drivers accept cash as I do not have cashless payment apps.
2. If I'm not rushing for time, can I buy a high-speed train ticket from Hangzhou East to Suzhou on 12 March over the counter? Do you think tickets will still be available? I tried to register for 12306 and other apps but failed to do so, as most require a Chinese mobile number.
3. Can I buy the metro card from the counter? Do they accept cash?
4. What's the weather like in Hangzhou from 11 - 15 March?
Many thanks in advance for anyone who can help with my enquiries.
2. If I'm not rushing for time, can I buy a high-speed train ticket from Hangzhou East to Suzhou on 12 March over the counter? Do you think tickets will still be available? I tried to register for 12306 and other apps but failed to do so, as most require a Chinese mobile number.
3. Can I buy the metro card from the counter? Do they accept cash?
4. What's the weather like in Hangzhou from 11 - 15 March?
Many thanks in advance for anyone who can help with my enquiries.
Answers (1)
Answered by Harry | Mar. 07, 2024 23:5200Reply
00Reply1. It is easy to take at taxi at the airport and just follow the airport signs to wait for it. The taxi fare would be around CNY100-120. Yes, they will accept cash.
2. It is suggested to book tickets online in advance as it may be hard to buy on the same day in case of sold out. You can book tickets directly with TravelChinaGuide.
3. Yes, you can buy it at any metro station and they accept cash. Cash is available everywhere.
4. The temp would be about 3-20C and it may be cloudy at most times.
2. It is suggested to book tickets online in advance as it may be hard to buy on the same day in case of sold out. You can book tickets directly with TravelChinaGuide.
3. Yes, you can buy it at any metro station and they accept cash. Cash is available everywhere.
4. The temp would be about 3-20C and it may be cloudy at most times.