Hangzhou Travel Guide: Explore West Lake, Tea Culture & More
Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is one of China’s most romantic and culturally rich cities. Known for its legendary West Lake, lush tea mountains, ancient temples, and thriving modern lifestyle, Hangzhou blends traditional elegance with dynamic innovation. Whether you’re seeking nature, history, food, or photography, this travel guide will help you plan the perfect Hangzhou trip.
Hangzhou has been praised as “Heaven on Earth” for centuries. From the mirror-like West Lake to the rolling hills covered with fresh Longjing tea, the city offers a peaceful and poetic travel experience. It’s also one of China’s top digital hubs, home to Alibaba and a booming café culture.
Top Attractions in Hangzhou
1. West Lake (西湖) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
West Lake is the centerpiece of Hangzhou and the reason travelers fall in love with the city. Must-do activities include:
- Boat ride across the lake
- Walk or cycle along Su Causeway
- Visit Broken Bridge and Leifeng Pagoda
- Watch the “Impression West Lake” night show
Best time: Sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views.
2. Lingyin Temple (灵隐寺)
One of China’s most famous Buddhist temples, Lingyin Temple is surrounded by lush forests and ancient rock carvings. It’s peaceful, spiritual, and rich with history.
Don’t miss:
- Feilai Peak grotto stone carvings
- Temple incense rituals
- Vegetarian meals inside the temple
3. Longjing Tea Village (龙井茶村)
Hangzhou is the birthplace of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, one of China’s finest teas.
Here you can:
- Pick tea leaves with local farmers
- Walk through terraced hills
- Enjoy tea tasting with traditional brewing methods
Take dreamy pictures among tea fields
4. Xixi National Wetland Park (西溪湿地)
A rare natural wetland inside a large city, Xixi offers:
- Bamboo forests
- Quiet waterways
- Bird-watching
- Boat tours through calm rivers
It’s ideal for nature lovers and families.
5. Qinghefang Ancient Street (清河坊)
A lively street full of:
- Traditional snacks
- Local souvenirs
- Teahouses
- Ancient architecture
Perfect for buying Hangzhou specialties and experiencing old-town charm.
What to Eat in Hangzhou
✔ West Lake Vinegar Fish (西湖醋鱼)
Sweet, sour, tender—Hangzhou’s signature dish.
✔ Dongpo Pork (东坡肉)
Slow-braised, rich, and incredibly soft.
✔ Longjing Shrimp (龙井虾仁)
Shrimp flavored with fresh tea leaves—a must-try.
✔ Beggar’s Chicken (叫花鸡)
Baked in clay for hours—fragrant and flavorful.
Best Places to Shop
Hubin Pedestrian Street – luxury brands & lake views
- Wulin Square – big malls
- Qinghefang Ancient Street – local snacks & crafts
- Alibaba’s Future Mall – tech + lifestyle shopping
How to Get Around Hangzhou
- Metro: clean, fast, budget-friendly
- Public bikes: perfect for West Lake
- Taxis & Didi: convenient and affordable
- Walking: many attractions are close together
- Travel tip: Hangzhou’s metro is the easiest way to reach most tourist spots.
Where to Stay
Best areas for tourists:
- West Lake Scenic Area – luxury hotels with lake views
- Wulin Square – convenient for shopping
- Huanglong Area – quiet and elegant
- Binjiang District – modern, riverside area
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March–May): tea season, flowers bloom
- Fall (September–November): cool weather, clear skies
- Summer can be hot and crowded; winter is quieter and more affordable.
Travel Tips
- Avoid weekends at West Lake due to crowds.
- Early mornings offer the best views and photos.
- Bring comfortable shoes for walking.
- Learn a few simple Chinese phrases—it helps!
- Try local teahouses; Hangzhou tea culture is unforgettable.
Hangzhou is a city where natural beauty, rich culture, and modern innovation meet. Whether you're relaxing at West Lake, exploring ancient temples, hiking tea mountains, or tasting local dishes, Hangzhou offers an unforgettable travel experience.
FAQ
1. What is Hangzhou best known for?
Hangzhou is most famous for West Lake, Longjing tea, historic temples, ancient streets, and its stunning blend of natural scenery and traditional Chinese culture.
2. How many days do you need in Hangzhou?
Most travelers need 2–3 days to see West Lake, Lingyin Temple, Longjing Tea Village, and Xixi Wetland. If you enjoy nature or tea culture, 4–5 days is ideal.
3. What is the best time to visit Hangzhou?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the best weather, clear skies, and the most beautiful scenery, especially around West Lake and the tea fields.
4. Is Hangzhou easy to get around?
Yes. Hangzhou has a modern metro system, convenient public bikes, taxis, and walkable tourist areas. It’s one of the easiest cities in China for visitors.
5. What food should I try in Hangzhou?
Popular local dishes include West Lake Vinegar Fish, Dongpo Pork, Longjing Shrimp, and Beggar’s Chicken. Many restaurants around West Lake offer authentic Hangzhou flavors.