Hangzhou
Heaven on Earth
Welcome to Hangzhou! This itinerary is optimized based on the most efficient routes to minimize travel time and maximize sightseeing.
1. Attractions
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of attraction name and paste in map app to see the location.
Note: Some major attractions require reservations even with tickets. Be sure to use Trip.com to purchase and reserve simultaneously
Day 1: The Complete West Lake Loop
Broken Bridge (Duan Qiao) (断桥)
The most famous bridge on the lake, known for the 'Legend of the White Snake.' Start your walk here.
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Jixian Pavilion & Leifeng Pagoda (集贤亭 & 雷峰塔)
See the floating Jixian Pavilion, then climb Leifeng Pagoda for the best panoramic view of the lake.
Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (三潭印月)
Take a boat to the central island. This famous scene appears on the 1 RMB banknote.
Viewing Fish at Flower Pond (花港观鱼)
A massive park famous for its thousands of golden carp and peony flowers.
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Crooked Courtyard (曲院风荷)
Finish the loop on the northwest side. Famous for lotus flowers in summer and traditional bridges.
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Day 2: History & The Grand Canal
City God Pavilion (城隍阁)
Located on Wushan Hill, offering a stunning view of both the West Lake and the city skyline.
Hangzhou Museum (杭州博物馆)
Learn about the history of the city from the prehistoric Liangzhu culture to the Song Dynasty.
Cost:Free
Hours:9:00 – 16:30
Hefang Street (河坊街)
The bustling historic heart of Hangzhou. Perfect for lunch, buying silk/tea souvenirs, and trying local snacks.
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Nansongyu Street (南宋御街)
This restored ancient road was once the exclusive path for emperors during the Southern Song Dynasty. Lined with beautiful heritage architecture and exhibition halls
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Day 3: Mountains, Temples & Springs
North Peak Cableway(Optional) (北高峰索道)
Take the cable car up for a bird's-eye view of the tea fields and the temple complex below if you are not fear of heights.
Lingyin Temple & Feilai Peak (灵隐寺 & 飞来峰)
One of China's most important Buddhist temples. Explore the limestone grottoes carved with hundreds of Buddha statues.
Tiger Running Spring (虎跑泉)
Famous for its high-quality spring water, said to be the perfect match for Longjing Tea. A quiet sanctuary.
2. Food
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of food name and paste in Dianping app to find restaurants.
Note: Food items may contain allergens. Please confirm with restaurant staff directly
The "Hangzhou Dishes"
Dongpo Pork
东坡肉
Fatty pork belly braised in soy sauce and wine. Named after the poet Su Dongpo.
Beggar’s Chicken
叫花鸡
Chicken wrapped in lotus leaves and mud, then baked.
Braised Spring Bamboo Shoots
油焖春笋
Fresh spring bamboo shoots braised in a savory, sweet soy sauce. A seasonal favorite.
Longjing Shrimp
龙井虾仁
Freshwater shrimp cooked with tea leaves.
3. Transportation
Arrival
- Air:
Metro (Best Value): Punctual and clean. Line 7 (45–50 mins; 7 RMB) goes to Wushan Square, right by Hefang Street and a 10-min walk to West Lake; last train ~22:49. Line 19 (30–40 mins; 6 RMB) is the fastest to West Lake Cultural Square; last train ~00:09.
Airport Bus (Late Night): Best for arrivals after midnight. The Wulinmen Line (20 RMB) stops near West Lake and runs until ~01:30 AM. The East Railway Station Line (40 RMB) has fewer late-night shifts (typically 23:50 and 01:50).
Taxi/Ride-hailing: Convenient but pricey. Costs 80–110 RMB to the city center (40–60 mins). Avoid during rush hours or holidays when traffic can double the travel time.Check flights via
- Train:
Hangzhou East: The city’s largest transport hub, offering the most train services and excellent metro connections (Lines 1/4/6/19) to West Lake, Qianjiang New City, and the airport; West Lake can be reached in about 20 minutes, though it can be very crowded during peak holidays.
Hangzhou Station (Chengzhan): Closer to West Lake and located in the city center, reaching Longxiangqiao in around 10 minutes by Metro Line 1, but it has fewer train services, mainly conventional trains and some high-speed rail.Check trains via
City Transport
- Metro: Use Alipay. Connects the East Station to West Lake (Line 1).
- West Lake Loop: The loop is long (15km). Use the West Lake Sightseeing Battery Carts or rent a Public Bike.
4. Where to Stay
West Lake East (Hubin Area)
Best for Day 1 & 2. Near the Metro and malls. Busy but convenient.
West Lake West
Best for Day 3. Quiet, near tea fields. More expensive resorts.
5. Essential Tips
💡 Top Tips
- Skip Songcheng: Often considered commercialized and overpriced compared to authentic sites.
- Beware of Tea Scams: Decline invitations to "tea festivals" or "grandpa's tea farm" near the lake. Buy only from established shops.
- Vinegar Fish Warning: It has a strong sour and earthy taste. Stick to Dongpo Pork if you prefer safer options.
- Traffic Jams: Taxis are hard to hail near West Lake on weekends. Rely on Metro, walking, or bikes.
- Best Time to Visit: March-April (Spring) and September-October (Autumn). Avoid hot summers.