DestinationsHangzhou
Hangzhou
杭州Home to the iconic West Lake and China's tea culture. A poetic city of ancient pagodas, misty lakes, and modern tech innovation. Marco Polo called it 'the most beautiful city in the world.'
Best Time
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Payment
Hangzhou is mobile payment capital (Alipay HQ). Nearly all m...
Airport
Airport→City: Airport Bus (¥20-30, 60-90min), Metro (¥7, 50m...
Telecom
Excellent WiFi coverage in Hangzhou. Tourist SIM recommended...
Emergency
Police: 110 | Ambulance: 120 | Fire: 119 | Foreigner Hotline...
Climate
Subtropical humid. Hot summers, cold damp winters. Spring an...
Visa & Entry Tips
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH). ~27km from city, connected by airport bus and metro.
Payment Overview
Hangzhou is mobile payment capital (Alipay HQ). Nearly all merchants accept QR code payment.
Getting Around
Airport to City Center
Airport→City: Airport Bus (¥20-30, 60-90min), Metro (¥7, 50min), Taxi (~¥100-130).
Local Transport
Metro covers main areas (¥2-8). West Lake has sightseeing buses and public bikes. Rent a bike to circle the lake.
Staying Connected
Excellent WiFi coverage in Hangzhou. Tourist SIM recommended.
Must-See Attractions
1
West Lake
UNESCO World Heritage lake with pagodas, causeways, and misty views
2
Lingyin Temple
Ancient Buddhist temple surrounded by forested hills
3
Longjing Tea Plantation
Source of China's most famous green tea
4
Hefang Street
Historic pedestrian street with traditional shops and snacks
5
Songcheng
Theme park recreating Song Dynasty life with spectacular shows
Food You Must Try
West Lake Vinegar Fish
Fresh fish in sweet and sour vinegar sauce
Dongpo Pork
Braised pork belly, tender and rich, named after the poet
Longjing Shrimp
Stir-fried shrimp with Dragon Well tea leaves
Beggar's Chicken
Whole chicken baked in clay, incredibly tender
Pian Er Chuan
Local noodles with bamboo shoots and preserved vegetables
Local Tips
1. Rent a bike to circle West Lake — it takes ~2 hours and is the best way to see it; 2. Visit Longjing tea village to buy authentic Dragon Well tea; 3. Lingyin Temple gets crowded, go before 9AM; 4. Try Dongpo Pork at the restaurant near West Lake; 5. Grand Canal boat ride is a nice evening activity.
