Hangzhou Travel Guide: The Ultimate Guide to a Deep Dive Experience
Paradise on Earth famous for West Lake's beauty and traditional Chinese culture
Welcome to Hangzhou, a captivating destination that beautifully blends ancient traditions with modern innovation. This remarkable city offers visitors an authentic glimpse into China's rich cultural heritage while providing all the conveniences of a world-class destination.
From iconic landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage sites to bustling markets and serene gardens, Hangzhou presents endless opportunities for discovery. Experience traditional architecture, savor authentic local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the daily rhythms of local life in this extraordinary Chinese city.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to plan an unforgettable journey to Hangzhou, from must-see attractions and local cuisine to practical travel tips and cultural insights. Whether you're interested in historical sites, modern developments, or authentic local experiences,Hangzhou offers something special for every traveler.
Pre-Trip Preparation
🗺️ City Map
Click to view fullscreen
Hangzhou Interactive Map
Coordinates: 30.2741, 120.1551
✓ Real-time map data
Explore Hangzhou with our interactive map featuring all major attractions, transportation hubs, and points of interest. The map integrates with Amap (高德地图) for accurate navigation and real-time traffic information.
🎯 Top Attractions
West Lake
UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning scenery and classical Chinese gardens
Lingyin Temple
Ancient Buddhist temple hidden in bamboo forests with magnificent architecture
Hefang Street
Historic pedestrian street with traditional shops and local delicacies
Longjing Tea Village
Famous tea plantation where you can learn about traditional tea culture
Six Harmonies Pagoda
Ancient pagoda offering panoramic views of the Qiantang River
📅 Itinerary Planning
1-Day Quick Tour
Perfect for short visits
3-Day Classic Tour
Recommended for first-time visitors
5+ Day Deep Dive
Perfect for culture enthusiasts
🚇 Transportation
✈️ Airport Information
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport
Airport Code: HGH
To City Center:
Airport Express (45min) or Taxi (60min)
Transportation Options:
- • Airport Express Train (Fastest)
- • Metro/Subway (Economical)
- • Taxi/Ride-sharing (Convenient)
- • Airport Bus (Budget-friendly)
🚇 Metro System
System Overview
Growing metro system with 8 lines covering major areas
Tips for Using Metro:
- • Get a transportation card for convenience
- • Mobile payment widely accepted
- • Peak hours: 7-9 AM, 5-7 PM
- • English announcements available
Cost: ¥3-10 RMB per ride depending on distance
🚗 Other Transportation Options
Taxis & Ride-sharing
- • Didi (Chinese Uber)
- • Traditional taxis
- • Airport pickup services
- • Translation apps helpful
Bikes & E-scooters
- • Shared bike systems
- • Electric scooters
- • Hotel bike rentals
- • Bike-friendly areas
Walking & Tours
- • Walking tours available
- • Tourist buses
- • Private car with driver
- • Group tour packages
🌤️ Weather & Climate
Best Time to Visit
Recommended: March to May & September to November
Ideal weather conditions with comfortable temperatures and lower rainfall.
🌸 Spring (March-May)
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, occasional rain
☀️ Summer (June-August)
Hot and humid, rainy season, long daylight hours
🍂 Autumn (September-November)
Comfortable temperatures, clear skies, beautiful foliage
❄️ Winter (December-February)
Cold and dry, fewer crowds, winter activities
🏨 Accommodation
Recommended Areas
West Lake Area (Scenic Zone)
Wulin Square (Shopping Center)
Xiaoshan District (Airport Area)
Binjiang District (High-tech Zone)
Booking Tips
- • Book early during peak seasons (Chinese holidays)
- • International hotel chains offer English-speaking staff
- • Consider location relative to metro stations
- • Check if breakfast is included
- • Verify internet access and VPN policies
🍜 Food & Dining
Local Specialties
West Lake Fish in Vinegar
Traditional local specialty
Dongpo Pork
Traditional local specialty
Longjing Shrimp
Traditional local specialty
Beggar's Chicken
Traditional local specialty
Dining Guide
🍽️ Dining Etiquette
- • Wait to be seated at restaurants
- • Sharing dishes is common
- • Use chopsticks properly
- • Tea is often provided free
💰 Price Ranges
📍 Where to Eat
- • Night markets for street food
- • Food courts in malls
- • Local neighborhood restaurants
- • Hotel restaurants for international cuisine
✈️ Departure Services
Pre-Departure Checklist
Tax-Free Shopping
Eligibility
- • Non-Chinese residents
- • Stay less than 183 days
- • Minimum purchase amount applies
- • Items for personal use only
Process
- • Shop at designated tax-free stores
- • Present passport when purchasing
- • Get tax refund forms
- • Complete refund process at airport
💰 Save 11-13% on eligible purchases
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should I spend in Hangzhou?
3-5 days is ideal for first-time visitors to see major attractions. Add 2-3 more days if you want to explore in-depth or take day trips to nearby areas.
Is Hangzhou safe for tourists?
Yes, Hangzhou is generally very safe for tourists. Petty crime is rare, but always keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
Do I need to speak Chinese to visit?
While helpful, it's not necessary. Tourist areas have English signage, and translation apps work well. Hotel staff and tour guides often speak English.
What should I pack for Hangzhou?
Pack according to the season. Always bring comfortable walking shoes, power adapter (Type A/C/I), and download translation apps. Consider bringing VPN app for internet access.
Can I use my credit card everywhere?
Credit cards are accepted at hotels and major stores, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are dominant. Set up mobile payment or carry cash for small vendors and street food.
How do I get internet access?
Free WiFi is available in hotels, malls, and cafes. Consider buying a local SIM card or renting a portable WiFi device. Note that some international websites require VPN access.