China

Hangzhou

Hangzhou: a lake of legend wrapped in tea hills and silk.

Local time: UTC+8
Population: 12.3M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$

Affordable

Food$$$$$About $21 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $62 a night for two
Transport$$$$$About $2.4 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇨🇳 CNY =

Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

HGHHangzhou Xiaoshan International AirportMain gateway, about 27-30 km east of the centre.

How	Cost	Time
Airport shuttle busWulin Square / Tiyuchang Road	¥20	about 60 min
Runs every 15-30 min in daytime; buy ticket at booth outside arrivals.
MetroCity centre	check locally	check locally
Metro line links the airport; check current line and fare.
TaxiCity centre	about ¥90	30-60 min
Metered; confirm the driver will take the trip before loading bags.
Ride app (Didi)City centre	¥80-110	30-60 min
Useful if you have no Chinese; set pickup point carefully.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Hangzhou

Getting around

Metro for most trips; Didi for late nights and the tea villages.

Metro ★13 lines and about 270 stations; fastest way around town.
BusExtensive network; K-prefixed routes are air-conditioned, fares about ¥2–3.
Taxi / ride apps ★Metered taxis start at ¥11; drivers rarely speak English, so show your destination in Chinese. Didi works widely; Uber is not the norm.
Rental carNot practical for most visitors; use metro, taxis and bikes instead.
WalkingGood around West Lake and old streets; use metro for longer hops.
BikesPublic share bikes cost about ¥1–2 per ride; bike lanes are common.
Water busGrand Canal ferry from Wulin Gate to Gongchen Bridge, about ¥3, a few trips daily.

Recommended stay★ 2 nights (3 days)

Two nights covers West Lake, a tea village and the old streets at an easy pace.

Best for

CultureWest Lake temples, tea villages and silk workshops.
NatureLake paths, bamboo groves and wetland parks.

Weather by month

10°1°Jan🌧 11d

12°3°Feb🌧 11d

17°8°Mar🌧 13d

22°12°Apr🌧 12d

26°17°May🌧 14d

29°22°Jun🌧 18d

33°26°Jul🌧 16d

33°26°Aug🌧 15d

28°21°Sep🌧 13d

23°15°Oct🌧 9d

18°10°Nov🌧 11d

11°3°Dec🌧 8d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Humid subtropical: hot, wet summers and cool, fairly dry winters. Spring and autumn are the best seasons.

Best time: April and OctoberAround 22–23°C by day with moderate rain. Ideal for West Lake and tea villages.
Hot, humid summer (June to August)Highs near 29–33°C with many rain days. Go out early and rest indoors at midday.
Rain peaks in JuneAbout 18 rain days. Carry a small umbrella and plan indoor sights.
Cool winters (December to February)Highs near 10–12°C, lows near 1–3°C. Rare snow, but damp cold feels sharp.
Dry, clear autumnOctober and November are the driest and clearest months for photos.
What to packLayers for spring and autumn, a rain jacket in summer, and a warm coat in winter. Comfortable shoes for lake paths.

Landmarks 8

Must-see · 3

1
West Lake
Hangzhou's iconic lake, a UNESCO site with causeways, pagodas and gardens. Best visited early morning to avoid crowds; free to walk, boat rides cost extra.
2
Lingyin Temple
One of China's most important Buddhist temples, set in a forested valley with ancient grottoes. Go early to avoid crowds; modest dress recommended; entry ticket required.
3
Leifeng Pagoda
Historic pagoda with panoramic views over West Lake. Visit near sunset for the best light; ticket required; elevators available.

Cultural

Old Town 1

Buddhist 2

Park 1

University 1

Natural

Lake 1

Activities

Cruise Tour 1

Bookstore 1

Day trips from Hangzhou

Shaoxing · 53 min by road

★★★★☆ · Full day · 61 km from Hangzhou

Best way: High-speed trains reach Shaoxing North in under an hour, faster than the bus and with easy onward metro or taxi to the old town.

High-speed trains run directly from Hangzhou East station to Shaoxing North in under an hour, then metro or taxi into the old town.

Bus1 h 19 · from $3-$13
Car53 min · taxi ≈ 160 CNY

What to see

Luxun's Former Residence
Shen Garden
East Lake
Anchang Ancient Town

Good to know

Book high-speed train tickets ahead for weekend travel
Shaoxing North is outside the old town; use metro or taxi for the last stretch
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons to walk the old town

Deqing · 41 min by train

★★★☆☆ · Full day · 41 km from Hangzhou

Best way: The train covers the 41 km in about 41 minutes, quicker than driving and a good base for the Moganshan shuttle.

Take a high-speed train from Hangzhou to Deqing, then a local bus or shuttle up to the Moganshan mountain villages.

Train ★41 min · from $2-$8
Car34 min · taxi ≈ 110 CNY

What to see

Bamboo forests
Historic stone villas
Mountain hiking trails
Sword Pond waterfall area

Good to know

You still need a local bus or shuttle from Deqing up to the Moganshan villages
Moganshan is busiest and priciest in summer; weekdays are calmer
Bring cash or a transit card for the local mountain shuttle

Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

Plans

Hangzhou rewards visitors with a serene lake, temple-lined hills and a fast, modern city. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

How long?

What do you enjoy most?

Day trip · Culture

One packed culture day: temple first, then lake history and an evening street of snacks.

Stay: West Lake (Hubin). Walk to the lake in minutes. Best for first-timers and evening strolls.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 145
Taxis: ≈ CNY 156

Day 1

Temple, lake history and old lanes

Tickets ≈ CNY 145 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 156

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CNY 32
1

08:00–10:00 · ≈ CNY 45 Feilai Feng scenic area + ≈ CNY 30 temple entry; check on the day

Lingyin Temple Landmark quest

Arrive right at opening to beat the crowds. Check hours on the day.

Open Roughly 07:00–18:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CNY 19
2

10:45–12:45 · Free to walk · tea tasting ≈ CNY 30–80

Longjing tea village walk

Short ride south. Walk the tea terraces and try a tasting.

Open Daytime · tea houses roughly 09:00–17:00
Taxi · 9 km · ≈ 30 min · ≈ CNY 34
3

13:15–14:15 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Noodles and snacks in the Hubin lanes.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 18
4

14:45–16:45 · Free · ID may be needed to enter

Zhejiang Provincial Museum

Closed Monday. Check hours on the day.

Open Closed Monday · roughly 09:00–17:00; check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CNY 19
5

17:15–18:15 · ≈ CNY 40 · check on the day

Leifeng Pagoda Landmark quest

Late afternoon light, then sunset over the lake.

Open Roughly 08:00–20:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 16 min · ≈ CNY 21
6

19:00–20:30 · Free to walk · snacks from ≈ CNY 10

Hefang Street

Evening stalls and snacks.

Open Shops roughly 09:00–22:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15

Day trip · Nature

A full outdoor day on and around the lake, from sunrise paths to an evening canal walk.

Stay: West Lake (Hubin). Walk to the lake in minutes. Best for first-timers and evening strolls.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 165
Taxis: ≈ CNY 194

Day 1

Lake paths, hills and canal lights

Tickets ≈ CNY 165 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 194

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CNY 18
1

06:30–08:00 · Free

Su Causeway walk

Sunrise on the causeway, before the crowds.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ CNY 21
2

08:15–09:00 · ≈ CNY 35–70 depending on boat type; check at the pier

West Lake Boat Ride Landmark quest

Weather dependent. Go early for calm water.

Open Daylight hours · weather dependent
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15
3

09:30–10:30 · Free

Baochu Pagoda hill viewpoint

Short climb for a lake view. Daylight is safer.

Open Open all day · daylight safer
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 17
4

11:30–12:30 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Lunch in the Hubin lanes.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi · 13 km · ≈ 40 min · ≈ CNY 43
5

13:30–16:30 · ≈ CNY 80 main zone · boat extra; check on the day

Xixi Wetland Park

Wetland park. Check closing time on the day.

Open Roughly 08:00–17:30 · check on the day
Taxi · 12 km · ≈ 39 min · ≈ CNY 42
6

19:00–20:30 · Free · canal boats extra

Grand Canal night walk (Gongchen Bridge)

Gongchen Bridge lights up in the evening.

Open Open all day · lights on in evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 34 min · ≈ CNY 38

1 night · Culture

One full day of temples, pagodas and old lanes around West Lake, with an evening show.

Stay: West Lake (Hubin). Walk to the lake in minutes. Best for first-timers and evening strolls.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 435
Taxis: ≈ CNY 143
Hotel: CNY 400–1,200

Day 1

Temple morning, lake afternoon, show at night

Tickets ≈ CNY 435 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 143

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CNY 32
1

08:00–10:00 · ≈ CNY 45 Feilai Feng scenic area + ≈ CNY 30 temple entry; check on the day

Lingyin Temple Landmark quest

Arrive right at opening to beat the crowds. Check hours on the day.

Open Roughly 07:00–18:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ CNY 30
2

10:30–11:30 · ≈ CNY 40–100 per pot; check menu

Lakeside tea house break

Short taxi or bus back toward the lake. Tea and a snack.

Open Roughly 09:00–21:00
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 17
3

14:00–15:00 · ≈ CNY 40 · check on the day

Leifeng Pagoda Landmark quest

Late afternoon light is best. Check hours on the day.

Open Roughly 08:00–20:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 16 min · ≈ CNY 21
4

17:00–18:30 · Free to walk · snacks from ≈ CNY 10

Hefang Street

Old street for snacks and souvenirs. Stalls look best after dark.

Open Shops roughly 09:00–22:00
Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ CNY 23
5

19:30–21:00 · ≈ CNY 200–400 by seat; check on the day

Impression West Lake show

Evening show, seasonal. Book ahead and confirm the start time.

Open Evening performances · seasonal
Taxi back to your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ CNY 20

1 night · Food

Tea village, lakeside tea houses and cheap noodle shops — eat your way around the lake.

Stay: West Lake (Hubin). Walk to the lake in minutes. Best for first-timers and evening strolls.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 90
Taxis: ≈ CNY 120
Hotel: CNY 400–1,200

Day 1

Tea village, lake snacks, night street

Tickets ≈ CNY 90 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 120

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 9 km · ≈ 29 min · ≈ CNY 33
1

09:00–11:00 · Free to walk · tea tasting ≈ CNY 30–80

Longjing tea village walk

Walk the village and try tea. Best in spring for the harvest.

Open Daytime · tea houses roughly 09:00–17:00
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ CNY 30
2

11:30–12:30 · ≈ CNY 40–100 per pot; check menu

Lakeside tea house break

Lakeside tea break before lunch crowds.

Open Roughly 09:00–21:00
Taxi · 1389 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 14
3

13:00–14:00 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Local noodle and snack shops in the Hubin lanes.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi · 599 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CNY 12
4

16:00–17:00 · Free

Hubin lakeside promenade

Walk off lunch along the water.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 15
5

18:00–19:30 · Free to walk · snacks from ≈ CNY 10

Hefang Street

Evening snacks and sweets. Shops roughly 09:00–22:00.

Open Shops roughly 09:00–22:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15

2 nights · Culture ★ Recommended length

First-timers who want the classic West Lake sights plus tea and silk, at an easy pace.

Stay: West Lake (Hubin). Walk to the lake in minutes. Best for first-timers and evening strolls.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 460
Taxis: ≈ CNY 255
Hotel: CNY 800–2,400

Day 1

Arrive, lakeside and old streets

Tickets ≈ CNY 40 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 66

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 259 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 12
1

15:00–16:00 · Free

Hubin lakeside promenade

Start with an easy walk along the lake. Drop bags at your hotel first.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CNY 19
2

16:30–17:30 · ≈ CNY 40 · check on the day

Leifeng Pagoda Landmark quest

Late afternoon light is best. Check closing time on the day.

Open Roughly 08:00–20:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 16 min · ≈ CNY 21
3

18:00–19:30 · Free to walk · snacks from ≈ CNY 10

Hefang Street

Snack street for dinner. Busiest and prettiest after dark.

Open Shops roughly 09:00–22:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15

Day 2

Temple, tea village and lake

Tickets ≈ CNY 390 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 126

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CNY 32
1

08:00–10:00 · ≈ CNY 45 Feilai Feng scenic area + ≈ CNY 30 temple entry; check on the day

Lingyin Temple Landmark quest

Arrive at opening to beat the crowds. Check hours on the day.

Open Roughly 07:00–18:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CNY 19
2

11:00–13:00 · Free to walk · tea tasting ≈ CNY 30–80

Longjing tea village walk

Short taxi ride. Walk the tea fields and stop for lunch at a tea house.

Open Daytime · tea houses roughly 09:00–17:00
Taxi · 9 km · ≈ 31 min · ≈ CNY 34
3

14:30–15:15 · ≈ CNY 35–70 depending on boat type; check at the pier

West Lake Boat Ride Landmark quest

Weather dependent. Skip if it rains.

Open Daylight hours · weather dependent
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 16 min · ≈ CNY 21
4

19:00–20:30 · ≈ CNY 200–400 by seat; check on the day

Impression West Lake show

Evening show, seasonal. Book ahead and confirm the time.

Open Evening performances · seasonal
Taxi back to your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ CNY 20

Day 3

Museum and silk, then leave

Tickets ≈ CNY 30 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 63

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 17
1

09:00–11:00 · Free · ID may be needed to enter

Zhejiang Provincial Museum

Closed Monday. Check hours on the day.

Open Closed Monday · roughly 09:00–17:00; check on the day
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ CNY 20
2

11:30–12:30 · Free to browse · prices vary

Silk market and old lanes walk

Short ride north. Weekday daytime is calmer.

Open Roughly 09:00–18:00
Taxi · 1088 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CNY 14
3

13:00–14:00 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Noodles and snacks before you head off.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 397 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 12

2 nights · Nature ★ Recommended length

Travellers who want lake paths, hills and wetlands rather than temples and shops.

Stay: West Lake (Hubin). Walk to the lake in minutes. Best for first-timers and evening strolls.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 160
Taxis: ≈ CNY 247
Hotel: CNY 800–2,400

Day 1

Arrive, sunset by the lake

Tickets ≈ CNY 0 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 48

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CNY 18
1

15:30–17:00 · Free

Su Causeway walk

Flat causeway walk. Go early tomorrow for sunrise if you have energy.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 18
2

18:00–19:00 · Free

Hubin lakeside promenade

Sunset over the water, then dinner nearby.

Open Open all day
Taxi back to your hotel · 259 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 12

Day 2

Sunrise, hills and wetland

Tickets ≈ CNY 80 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 155

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CNY 18
1

06:30–07:30 · Free

Su Causeway walk

Sunrise is the quietest time on the causeway.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CNY 19
2

08:30–09:30 · Free

Baochu Pagoda hill viewpoint

Short climb for a lake view. Daylight is safer.

Open Open all day · daylight safer
Taxi · 11 km · ≈ 34 min · ≈ CNY 38
3

11:00–14:00 · ≈ CNY 80 main zone · boat extra; check on the day

Xixi Wetland Park

Taxi or metro out. Check closing time on the day; last entry is earlier.

Open Roughly 08:00–17:30 · check on the day
Taxi · 12 km · ≈ 39 min · ≈ CNY 42
4

19:00–20:30 · Free · canal boats extra

Grand Canal night walk (Gongchen Bridge)

Back in town for an evening canal walk. Lights come on after dark.

Open Open all day · lights on in evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 34 min · ≈ CNY 38

Day 3

Bike loop, then leave

Tickets ≈ CNY 80 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 44

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 16
1

08:00–09:30 · ≈ CNY 10–30 per hour via app; check on the day

Lakeside bike loop

Rent a shared bike early. Paths get busy later.

Open Daytime
Taxi · 1429 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15
2

10:00–11:00 · ≈ CNY 40–100 per pot; check menu

Lakeside tea house break

Break by the lake before you go.

Open Roughly 09:00–21:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 992 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CNY 13

2 nights · Food ★ Recommended length

Visitors who plan the day around tea, lake fish and cheap noodle shops.

Stay: West Lake (Hubin). Walk to the lake in minutes. Best for first-timers and evening strolls.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 215
Taxis: ≈ CNY 278
Hotel: CNY 800–2,400

Day 1

Arrive, snacks and old streets

Tickets ≈ CNY 30 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 55

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 397 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 12
1

12:30–13:30 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Lunch in the Hubin lanes. Look for noodle shops with a queue of locals.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi · 599 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CNY 12
2

14:00–15:00 · Free

Hubin lakeside promenade

Walk off lunch along the lake.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 15
3

17:30–19:00 · Free to walk · snacks from ≈ CNY 10

Hefang Street

Graze the stalls for dinner. Cash and phone pay both work.

Open Shops roughly 09:00–22:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15

Day 2

Tea village and lake

Tickets ≈ CNY 155 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 122

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 9 km · ≈ 29 min · ≈ CNY 33
1

09:30–11:30 · Free to walk · tea tasting ≈ CNY 30–80

Longjing tea village walk

Tea houses open around 09:00. Spring is harvest season.

Open Daytime · tea houses roughly 09:00–17:00
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ CNY 30
2

12:00–13:00 · ≈ CNY 40–100 per pot; check menu

Lakeside tea house break

Long lunch with local tea. Prices vary; ask before ordering.

Open Roughly 09:00–21:00
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 17
3

14:30–15:15 · ≈ CNY 35–70 depending on boat type; check at the pier

West Lake Boat Ride Landmark quest

Weather dependent.

Open Daylight hours · weather dependent
Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ CNY 23
4

16:30–17:30 · ≈ CNY 40 · check on the day

Leifeng Pagoda Landmark quest

Sunset view. Check closing time on the day.

Open Roughly 08:00–20:00 · check on the day
Taxi back to your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ CNY 20

Day 3

Market and canal, then leave

Tickets ≈ CNY 30 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 101

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 1474 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15
1

10:00–11:00 · Free to browse · prices vary

Silk market and old lanes walk

Weekday daytime is calmest.

Open Roughly 09:00–18:00
Taxi · 10 km · ≈ 33 min · ≈ CNY 37
2

11:30–13:00 · Free · canal boats extra

Grand Canal night walk (Gongchen Bridge)

Walk the canal lanes and eat lunch by the water.

Open Open all day · lights on in evening
Taxi · 11 km · ≈ 34 min · ≈ CNY 37
3

13:30–14:30 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Last snack stop before you go.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 397 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 12

3 nights · Culture

First-timers who want temples, tea and old streets at an easy pace, all based around West Lake.

Stay: West Lake (Hubin). Walk to the lake in minutes. Best for first-timers and evening strolls.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 290
Taxis: ≈ CNY 361
Hotel: CNY 1,200–3,600

Day 1

Arrive, lakeside and old streets

Tickets ≈ CNY 40 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 66

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 259 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 12
1

15:00–16:00 · Free

Hubin lakeside promenade

Easy start along the lake. Drop bags first.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CNY 19
2

16:30–17:30 · ≈ CNY 40 · check on the day

Leifeng Pagoda Landmark quest

Roughly 08:00–20:00; check on the day. Stay for sunset.

Open Roughly 08:00–20:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 16 min · ≈ CNY 21
3

18:00–19:30 · Free to walk · snacks from ≈ CNY 10

Hefang Street

Old street, lit up in the evening. Dinner here.

Open Shops roughly 09:00–22:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15

Day 2

Temples and tea hills

Tickets ≈ CNY 135 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 115

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CNY 32
1

08:00–10:00 · ≈ CNY 45 Feilai Feng scenic area + ≈ CNY 30 temple entry; check on the day

Lingyin Temple Landmark quest

Go right at opening to beat crowds. Hours roughly 07:00–18:00; check on the day.

Open Roughly 07:00–18:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CNY 19
2

10:45–12:45 · Free to walk · tea tasting ≈ CNY 30–80

Longjing tea village walk

Short taxi or bus from Lingyin. Tea houses roughly 09:00–17:00.

Open Daytime · tea houses roughly 09:00–17:00
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ CNY 30
3

13:30–14:30 · ≈ CNY 40–100 per pot; check menu

Lakeside tea house break

Longjing tea and a light lunch.

Open Roughly 09:00–21:00
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CNY 16
4

15:00–16:30 · Free

Su Causeway walk

Causeway walk back toward Hubin.

Open Open all day
Taxi back to your hotel · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CNY 18

Day 3

Museums and the canal

Tickets ≈ CNY 30 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 121

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 17
1

09:30–11:30 · Free · ID may be needed to enter

Zhejiang Provincial Museum

Closed Monday. Roughly 09:00–17:00; check on the day.

Open Closed Monday · roughly 09:00–17:00; check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 18
2

12:00–13:00 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Noodle and snack shops in the Hubin lanes.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ CNY 20
3

14:00–14:45 · Free to enter · café purchases extra

Zhongshuge Bookstore Landmark quest

Roughly 10:00–22:00; check on the day.

Open Roughly 10:00–22:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 24 min · ≈ CNY 28
4

18:00–19:30 · Free · canal boats extra

Grand Canal night walk (Gongchen Bridge)

Gongchen Bridge area. Lights come on in the evening.

Open Open all day · lights on in evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 34 min · ≈ CNY 38

Day 4

Pagoda view, then go

Tickets ≈ CNY 85 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 58

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 17
1

08:30–09:30 · Free

Baochu Pagoda hill viewpoint

Morning hill walk to Baochu Pagoda. Daylight is safer.

Open Open all day · daylight safer
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15
2

10:00–10:45 · ≈ CNY 35–70 depending on boat type; check at the pier

West Lake Boat Ride Landmark quest

Daylight hours only; weather dependent.

Open Daylight hours · weather dependent
Taxi · 1383 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 14
3

11:15–12:15 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Early lunch before you leave.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 397 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 12

3 nights · Nature

Travellers who want lake paths, hills and wetlands, with early starts and quiet afternoons.

Stay: West Lake (Hubin). Walk to the lake in minutes. Best for first-timers and evening strolls.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 605
Taxis: ≈ CNY 324
Hotel: CNY 1,200–3,600

Day 1

Arrive, sunset by the lake

Tickets ≈ CNY 70 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 64

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 259 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 12
1

16:00–17:00 · Free

Hubin lakeside promenade

Flat lakeside promenade. Open all day.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CNY 19
2

17:15–18:15 · ≈ CNY 40 · check on the day

Leifeng Pagoda Landmark quest

Sunset view over the lake. Roughly 08:00–20:00; check on the day.

Open Roughly 08:00–20:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 16 min · ≈ CNY 21
3

18:45–19:45 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Dinner in the Hubin lanes.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 397 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 12

Day 2

Causeway at sunrise, hills after

Tickets ≈ CNY 50 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 79

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CNY 18
1

06:30–08:00 · Free

Su Causeway walk

Best at sunrise, before the crowds.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 1378 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 14
2

08:15–09:45 · ≈ CNY 10–30 per hour via app; check on the day

Lakeside bike loop

Rent a shared bike. Daytime only.

Open Daytime
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CNY 17
3

10:30–11:30 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Late breakfast or early lunch.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15
4

13:00–14:00 · Free

Wushan (Wu Hill) viewpoint

Hill viewpoint. Daylight is safer.

Open Open all day · daylight safer
Taxi back to your hotel · 1340 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 14

Day 3

Wetland day

Tickets ≈ CNY 400 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 123

Taxi from your hotel · 13 km · ≈ 40 min · ≈ CNY 43
1

08:30–11:30 · ≈ CNY 80 main zone · boat extra; check on the day

Xixi Wetland Park

Roughly 08:00–17:30; check on the day. Allow travel time from Hubin.

Open Roughly 08:00–17:30 · check on the day
Taxi · 12 km · ≈ 39 min · ≈ CNY 42
2

13:00–14:00 · ≈ CNY 40–100 per pot; check menu

Lakeside tea house break

Afternoon tea break back near the lake.

Open Roughly 09:00–21:00
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CNY 18
3

19:00–20:30 · ≈ CNY 200–400 by seat; check on the day

Impression West Lake show

Evening show, seasonal. Book ahead.

Open Evening performances · seasonal
Taxi back to your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ CNY 20

Day 4

Pagoda hill, then go

Tickets ≈ CNY 85 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 58

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 17
1

08:00–09:00 · Free

Baochu Pagoda hill viewpoint

Morning walk up to Baochu Pagoda.

Open Open all day · daylight safer
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15
2

09:30–10:15 · ≈ CNY 35–70 depending on boat type; check at the pier

West Lake Boat Ride Landmark quest

Morning is calm and clear. Weather dependent.

Open Daylight hours · weather dependent
Taxi · 1383 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 14
3

10:45–11:45 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Early lunch before departure.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 397 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 12

3 nights · Food

Visitors who plan the day around tea, lake fish and cheap noodle shops, with light sightseeing between meals.

Stay: West Lake (Hubin). Walk to the lake in minutes. Best for first-timers and evening strolls.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 340
Taxis: ≈ CNY 363
Hotel: CNY 1,200–3,600

Day 1

Arrive, old street snacks

Tickets ≈ CNY 60 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 56

Taxi from your hotel · 259 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 12
1

15:30–16:30 · Free

Hubin lakeside promenade

Walk off the trip along the lake.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 15
2

17:00–18:30 · Free to walk · snacks from ≈ CNY 10

Hefang Street

Snack stalls and shops, roughly 09:00–22:00. Eat as you go.

Open Shops roughly 09:00–22:00
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 16
3

19:00–20:00 · ≈ CNY 40–100 per pot; check menu

Lakeside tea house break

Evening tea. Roughly 09:00–21:00.

Open Roughly 09:00–21:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 992 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CNY 13

Day 2

Tea village and temples

Tickets ≈ CNY 105 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 121

Taxi from your hotel · 9 km · ≈ 29 min · ≈ CNY 33
1

09:00–11:00 · Free to walk · tea tasting ≈ CNY 30–80

Longjing tea village walk

Tea houses roughly 09:00–17:00. Spring is harvest time.

Open Daytime · tea houses roughly 09:00–17:00
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CNY 19
2

11:30–13:30 · ≈ CNY 45 Feilai Feng scenic area + ≈ CNY 30 temple entry; check on the day

Lingyin Temple Landmark quest

Roughly 07:00–18:00; check on the day.

Open Roughly 07:00–18:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 9 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CNY 32
3

14:00–15:00 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Late lunch of noodles and snacks.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CNY 19
4

15:30–17:00 · Free

Su Causeway walk

Easy causeway walk to finish.

Open Open all day
Taxi back to your hotel · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CNY 18

Day 3

Market, museum and canal dinner

Tickets ≈ CNY 30 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 127

Taxi from your hotel · 1474 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15
1

10:00–11:00 · Free to browse · prices vary

Silk market and old lanes walk

Old lanes and market. Roughly 09:00–18:00.

Open Roughly 09:00–18:00
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ CNY 20
2

11:30–13:30 · Free · ID may be needed to enter

Zhejiang Provincial Museum

Closed Monday. Roughly 09:00–17:00; check on the day.

Open Closed Monday · roughly 09:00–17:00; check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 18
3

14:00–15:00 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Lunch in the Hubin lanes.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi · 11 km · ≈ 34 min · ≈ CNY 37
4

18:00–19:30 · Free · canal boats extra

Grand Canal night walk (Gongchen Bridge)

Evening walk at Gongchen Bridge, then dinner nearby.

Open Open all day · lights on in evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 34 min · ≈ CNY 38

Day 4

Boat, tea, then go

Tickets ≈ CNY 145 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 59

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 15
1

09:00–09:45 · ≈ CNY 35–70 depending on boat type; check at the pier

West Lake Boat Ride Landmark quest

Morning is best. Weather dependent.

Open Daylight hours · weather dependent
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 17
2

10:15–11:15 · ≈ CNY 40–100 per pot; check menu

Lakeside tea house break

Last tea stop before you leave.

Open Roughly 09:00–21:00
Taxi · 1389 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 14
3

11:30–12:30 · ≈ CNY 15–50 per dish

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Early lunch.

Open Roughly 10:00–21:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 397 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 12

Swap in instead

Swap a lake day for a tea village walk in Meijiawu or Longjing, about 30–40 minutes by taxi.
Add a day trip to Wuzhen or Xitang water towns; check bus and train times on the day.
Take the Grand Canal water bus from Wulin Gate to Gongchen Bridge, about ¥3.

Getting around

Metro: 13 lines and about 270 stations; fastest way around town.
Buses: extensive network; K-prefixed routes are air-conditioned, fares about ¥2-3.
Taxis: metered, start at ¥11; drivers rarely speak English, so show your destination in Chinese.
Ride apps: Didi works widely; international apps like Uber are not the norm here.
Bikes: public share bikes cost about ¥1-2 per ride; bike lanes are common.
Water bus: Grand Canal ferry from Wulin Gate to Gongchen Bridge, about ¥3, a few trips daily.

Where to stay

West Lake (Hubin) · ≈ CNY 400–1,200 a night
Walk to the lake in minutes. Best for first-timers and evening strolls.
Wulin Square · ≈ CNY 300–800 a night
Central downtown. Metro, shops and the Grand Canal water bus nearby.
Hangzhou East Station · ≈ CNY 200–600 a night
Cheapest beds and fast high-speed trains to Shanghai. Not near the lake.
Xixi / Yuhang · ≈ CNY 250–700 a night
Quiet wetland parks and newer hotels. Far from West Lake; budget taxi time.

Food & drink

Try Dongpo pork, West Lake vinegar fish and Longjing shrimp at a lake-view restaurant.
Cheap eats: noodle and dumpling shops near Wulin Square, about ¥15–30 a bowl.
Drink Longjing green tea in a tea house; prices range widely, so ask first.
Snack streets: Hefang Street for sweets and street food, busiest in the evening.
Vegetarian temples serve simple set meals; check opening hours on the day.

Tips

Alipay is absolutely essential, as Hangzhou is the headquarters of Alibaba and is virtually cashless
Visit a traditional teahouse near West Lake to taste the famous Longjing (Dragon Well) green tea
Rent a shared bicycle to explore the vast and scenic perimeter of West Lake
Weekends at West Lake are extremely crowded; try visiting early in the morning
The high-speed train to Shanghai is incredibly convenient but book tickets in advance during holidays

Sources for prices and hours

Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

Tours & activities

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

West Lake

Open-air performance staged on West Lake
Evening of music and dance telling Hangzhou's stories
45 reviews · 4.8 rating

Evening showIconic

Impression West Lake Show — Enduring Memories of Hangzhou

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (45)

$72View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Lingyin Temple

Entry to Lingyin Temple and Feilai Feng
See the Buddhist halls and cliff carvings at your own pace
12 reviews · 4.3 rating

Entry includedSkip the line

Lingyin Temple & Feilai Feng Entry Ticket

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.3 (12)

$20View tour

Souvenirs

Longjing green tea

CNY 100–40050–100 g · shop prices

A famous green tea grown in the hills around West Lake. It is known for its flat leaves and fresh, nutty taste.

Where: Meijiawu tea farm shops or official brand stores

Ask for a tasting before you buy. West Lake and Mingqian-harvest certified teas cost much more than regular ones.

Hangzhou silk scarf

CNY 150–5001 small scarf · shop prices

Hangzhou has a long history of silk weaving, and this scarf reflects that local craft.

Where: Wensli official store or the China Silk Museum shop

Check the silk content on the label before paying.

Zhang Xiaoquan scissors

CNY 40–1501 small pair · estimate

A traditional metal craft brand from Hangzhou, known for well-made scissors that have been produced for generations.

Where: Official Zhang Xiaoquan stores, especially around Hefang Street

Pack these in checked luggage, not carry-on, because blades are not allowed in the cabin.

Flights

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Cost of a day

Exchange rate

Getting in

Getting around

Weather by month

Climate

Landmarks 8

Must-see · 3

West Lake

Lingyin Temple

Leifeng Pagoda

Cultural

Old Town 1

Buddhist 2

Park 1

University 1

Natural

Lake 1

Activities

Cruise Tour 1

Bookstore 1

Day trips from Hangzhou

Shaoxing · 53 min by road

What to see

Good to know

Deqing · 41 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Plans

Lingyin Temple Landmark quest

Longjing tea village walk

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Zhejiang Provincial Museum

Leifeng Pagoda Landmark quest

Hefang Street

Su Causeway walk

West Lake Boat Ride Landmark quest

Baochu Pagoda hill viewpoint

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Xixi Wetland Park

Grand Canal night walk (Gongchen Bridge)

Longjing tea village walk

Lakeside tea house break

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Hubin lakeside promenade

Hefang Street

Lingyin Temple Landmark quest

Lakeside tea house break

Leifeng Pagoda Landmark quest

Hefang Street

Impression West Lake show

Su Causeway walk

West Lake Boat Ride Landmark quest

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Wushan (Wu Hill) viewpoint

Hubin lakeside promenade

Longjing tea village walk

Lakeside tea house break

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Hubin lakeside promenade

Hefang Street

Hubin lakeside promenade

Leifeng Pagoda Landmark quest

Hefang Street

Lingyin Temple Landmark quest

Longjing tea village walk

West Lake Boat Ride Landmark quest

Impression West Lake show

Zhejiang Provincial Museum

Silk market and old lanes walk

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)

Su Causeway walk

Hubin lakeside promenade

Su Causeway walk

Baochu Pagoda hill viewpoint

Xixi Wetland Park

Grand Canal night walk (Gongchen Bridge)

Lakeside bike loop

Lakeside tea house break

Local noodle and snack shops (Hubin lanes)