Hangzhou Travel Guide
Heaven on Earth โ West Lake, tea plantations & poetic landscapes
Must-See Attractions
West Lake
China's most romantic lake โ pagodas, causeways, willows, and misty hills that inspired poets for millennia
Lingyin Temple (Temple of Soul's Retreat)
One of China's largest and most important Buddhist temples โ carved cliff Buddhas and serene halls
Longjing Tea Plantations
The birthplace of China's most famous green tea โ terraced fields, tea houses, and fresh mountain air
Leifeng Pagoda
Rebuilt 5-story pagoda with glass elevators โ best panoramic view of West Lake and the city
Getting Around
Hangzhou blends modern transit with scenic cycling:
Metro
ยฅ2-8 per ride. Lines 1 and 4 connect major areas. Alipay QR works at all turnstiles.
Shared Bikes
The best way to see Hangzhou! Dedicated bike paths around West Lake and through tea villages. ~ยฅ1.5/30 min.
DiDi
ยฅ15-50 within city. Convenient for trips to Lingyin Temple or Longjing Village from downtown.
Where to Stay
Best areas for visitors to Hangzhou:
West Lake Area
Wake up to lake views. Luxury resorts and boutique hotels along the shore. Walk to major sights. Book early.
Qinghefang / Wushan
Historic pedestrian street with traditional architecture. Street food, tea houses, and souvenir shops. Metro Line 1.
What to Eat
Hangzhou cuisine is delicate, fresh, and subtly sweet โ reflecting its poetic heritage:
West Lake Vinegar Fish
Fresh carp in sweet vinegar sauce โ Hangzhou's most famous dish. Light, tangy, and elegant. ยฅ60-120.
Dongpo Pork
Slow-braised pork belly named after poet Su Dongpo. Melts in your mouth. Best at Louwailou (ๆฅผๅคๆฅผ). ยฅ50-90.
Longjing Shrimp
River shrimp stir-fried with real Longjing tea leaves โ delicate tea fragrance. A Hangzhou original. ยฅ80-150.