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Hangzhou, China

Destination Guide

Hangzhou

China

Best things to do in Hangzhou

28 curated attractions in Hangzhou, China. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

March - June, September - November

Average temp

17°C/63°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Very safe

About Hangzhou

Hangzhou, a large city in eastern China, is anchored by West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its historical and cultural significance. The lake is surrounded by traditional gardens, temples, and pagodas, each echoing the grandeur of the Song Dynasty, when Hangzhou served as its capital. This legacy continues to attract millions, with the tea culture and silk production shaping local life. The city also embraces modernity, with well-planned walks along the lakeshore and a variety of museums that showcase the region's history and natural beauty. People come for the West Lake itself and its scenic views, which have inspired countless poets and painters over the centuries.

Who it's for

History enthusiasts and those interested in traditional Chinese culture will find much to enjoy. It's less suitable for those seeking a fast-paced city experience or extensive nightlife, as the focus here is more on tranquility and nature. If you're looking for a place where every third thing is a staircase, this isn't it.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • The West Lake area is about a 40-minute walk from the city center, so comfortable shoes are advised
  • Public transport is reliable, with buses frequently connecting key attractions
  • The Hangzhou East Railway Station links to major cities, including Shanghai, in about an hour
  • Taxis are widely available but can be slow during peak hours
Longjing Tea Plantation

Longjing Tea Plantation

Rice terraces & countryside
Hangzhou Confucius Temple

Hangzhou Confucius Temple

Monasteries
Xixi National Wetland Park

Xixi National Wetland Park

National parks & nature reserves
Qinghefang Ancient Street

Qinghefang Ancient Street

Streets & neighbourhoods
Hefang Street

Hefang Street

Streets & neighbourhoods
Hangzhou Silk Museum

Hangzhou Silk Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
Hangzhou Botanical Garden

Hangzhou Botanical Garden

Botanical gardens
Hangzhou Zoo

Hangzhou Zoo

Zoos
Sweet Osmanthus Rain at Manjuelong Village

Sweet Osmanthus Rain at Manjuelong Village

Traditional villages
Jiuxi

Jiuxi

Natural Wonders
China National Tea Museum

China National Tea Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
Guo's Villa

Guo's Villa

Historic houses & mansions
Deshou Temple

Deshou Temple

Landmarks and Monuments
Zhejiang Museum

Zhejiang Museum

History museums
Longmen Ancient Town

Longmen Ancient Town

Traditional villages
Jingshan Temple

Jingshan Temple

Religious Sites
City Balcony

City Balcony

Urban Attractions
Wuzhen Water Town

Wuzhen Water Town

Traditional villages
Faxi Temple

Faxi Temple

Religious Sites
West Lake

West Lake

Lakes
in77 Mall

in77 Mall

Shopping and Markets
Lingyin Temple

Lingyin Temple

Buddhist temples & pagodas
Gongchen Bridge

Gongchen Bridge

Historical Attractions
Song Dynasty Town

Song Dynasty Town

Traditional villages
Liuhe Pagoda

Liuhe Pagoda

Buddhist temples & pagodas
Leifeng Pagoda

Leifeng Pagoda

Buddhist temples & pagodas
Hangzhou Chenghuang Pavilion

Hangzhou Chenghuang Pavilion

Monuments & memorials
Wulin Night Market

Wulin Night Market

Food

Travel Tools

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