Exploring Hangzhou: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Travel Guide to Hangzhou, China

1. Introduction to Hangzhou

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled on the banks of the serene West Lake, Hangzhou has been a source of inspiration for poets and artists throughout history. The city is often celebrated as one of China's most beautiful cities, with a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and a thriving tea culture. With its mild climate and scenic views, Hangzhou attracts millions of visitors each year.

2. Top Attractions

West Lake (Xi Hu)

• Overview: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, West Lake is the crown jewel of Hangzhou. The lake is surrounded by lush hills, gardens, and ancient temples, making it a perfect spot for leisurely walks, boat rides, and photography.
• Highlights:
  • Three Pools Mirroring the Moon: A famous landmark featuring three pagoda-like structures.
  • Su Causeway: A picturesque pathway perfect for cycling or walking, especially during the cherry blossom season.
  • Leifeng Pagoda: A historical pagoda offering panoramic views of the lake and city.

Lingyin Temple (Lingyin Si)

• Overview: One of the largest and wealthiest Buddhist temples in China, Lingyin Temple offers a peaceful retreat amidst nature. It dates back to the 4th century and is famous for its intricate carvings and statues.
• Highlights:
  • Fei Lai Feng: A nearby hill with hundreds of ancient stone carvings of Buddhist figures.
  • Buddha Statues: The temple houses numerous statues, including a magnificent 24.5-meter high statue of Sakyamuni.

Longjing Tea Village (Longjing Cha Yuan)

• Overview: Known as the home of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, this picturesque village is surrounded by lush tea plantations. Visitors can experience tea picking and learn about the tea-making process.
• Highlights:
  • Tea Tasting: Sample the world-renowned Longjing tea at local tea houses.
  • Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy scenic walks through the tea fields and picturesque mountain views.

3. Local Cuisine

Dongpo Pork (东坡肉)

• Description: Named after the famous poet Su Dongpo, this dish features braised pork belly cooked with soy sauce, sugar, and wine, resulting in tender and flavorful meat with a rich sauce.

Beggar's Chicken (叫花鸡)

• Description: A traditional dish where a whole chicken is marinated, wrapped in lotus leaves, and encased in clay before being baked. This method locks in flavors and moisture, resulting in succulent meat.

West Lake Vinegar Fish (西湖醋鱼)

• Description: A local specialty, this dish features freshwater fish (usually carp) cooked in a sweet and sour vinegar sauce. It’s often served with a side of stir-fried vegetables.

4. Practical Tips

Booking Trips

• Ctrip and Booking.com:
  • Use Ctrip for accommodation, flights, and train tickets. The app is user-friendly and provides various options.
  • Booking.com is great for international travelers, offering a range of hotels and guesthouses with flexible cancellation policies.

Making Payments with Alipay

• Setup: Download the Alipay app and link your international credit card. It is widely accepted in restaurants, shops, and for transportation.
• Tip: Scan QR codes at shops for quick payments and keep some cash for small vendors.

Using Google Translate

• Download the App: Have the Google Translate app installed on your phone for instant translations.
• Offline Features: Download the Chinese language pack for offline use, which can be particularly useful in areas with poor connectivity.

Using Didi for Taxi Services

• How to Use: Download the Didi app and create an account. You can book a ride similarly to Uber, and it's generally more affordable than traditional taxis.
• Language Barrier: Use Google Translate to communicate your destination if the driver doesn't speak English.

Internet Access and VPN Considerations

• VPN Setup: Consider installing a VPN on your devices before arriving in China, as many Western sites (like Google and Facebook) are blocked.
• Wi-Fi Access: Many hotels and cafes offer free Wi-Fi, but a local SIM card may be beneficial for consistent internet access.

5. Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Hangzhou

• Check into your hotel
• Afternoon stroll around West Lake
• Evening boat ride on the lake

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

• Visit Lingyin Temple in the morning
• Explore Fei Lai Feng
• Lunch at a local

Note: This image is for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the exact location.