Exploring Hangzhou: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Travel Guide to Hangzhou, China

Introduction to Hangzhou

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Situated at the southern end of the Grand Canal, which links Beijing and Hangzhou, the city is famous for its serene West Lake, lush tea plantations, and historic temples. Often described as one of the most beautiful cities in China, Hangzhou is a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

West Lake (Xi Hu)

• Description: A UNESCO World Heritage site, West Lake is the crown jewel of Hangzhou. Its stunning scenery features willow-lined banks, lotus-filled waters, and an array of bridges and pagodas.
• Activities:
  • Take a boat ride to experience the tranquility of the lake.
  • Visit the iconic Broken Bridge and Su Causeway.
  • Explore the various gardens and temples around the lake.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for beautiful lighting and fewer crowds.

Lingyin Temple (Lingyin Si)

• Description: One of the largest and most significant Buddhist temples in China, Lingyin Temple is surrounded by lush hills and ancient trees.
• Highlights:
  • Marvel at the impressive stone carvings, including the famous Feilai Feng.
  • Explore the various halls, including the Hall of the Great Hero, which houses a large statue of Sakyamuni.
  • Participate in meditation sessions offered at the temple.
• Tips: Dress modestly and be respectful of the religious practices.

Longjing Tea Village (Longjing Cha Xiang)

• Description: Known for producing Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, this village is nestled among scenic tea fields.
• Activities:
  • Tour the tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process.
  • Sample freshly brewed Longjing tea.
  • Visit local tea shops to purchase high-quality tea directly from farmers.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) when the tea leaves are harvested.

Local Cuisine

Dongpo Pork (东坡肉)

• Description: A famous dish named after the Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo, this braised pork belly is characterized by its tender texture and rich flavor, often served with steamed buns.

Beggar's Chicken (乞丐鸡)

• Description: A traditional dish where a whole chicken is wrapped in lotus leaves, coated in clay, and slow-cooked. The result is tender, flavorful meat infused with the aroma of the leaves.

West Lake Vinegar Fish (西湖醋鱼)

• Description: This dish features freshwater fish cooked in a tangy sweet-and-sour vinegar sauce, capturing the essence of West Lake's culinary heritage.

Practical Tips

Booking Trips

• Ctrip and Booking.com: Use these platforms to book hotels, transportation, and tours. Ctrip often has localized services, including train tickets and attractions.
  • Tip: Sign up for membership to access exclusive deals and discounts.

Payments with Alipay

• Alipay: A widely accepted mobile payment platform in China. Create an account using a local phone number, link your bank account or credit card, and use it for seamless payments in stores, restaurants, and for services.
  • Tip: Download the app before arriving and familiarize yourself with its features.

Google Translate

• Language Assistance: Download the Google Translate app and set it to offline mode for language support. Use the camera function for translating signs and menus.
  • Tip: Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can enhance your interactions with locals.

Didi for Taxi Services

• Didi: The Chinese equivalent of Uber, Didi allows you to book taxis conveniently through its app. It offers various vehicle options depending on your budget.
  • Tip: Have your destination written in Chinese to show to drivers.

Internet Access and VPN

• Internet Access: Most hotels and cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for mobile data.
• VPN Considerations: Due to internet restrictions in China, using a VPN is advisable for accessing Western sites. Download and set up your VPN before arriving in China.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and West Lake

• Arrive in Hangzhou and check into your hotel.
• Spend the afternoon exploring West Lake.
• Enjoy a sunset boat ride and dinner overlooking the lake.

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

• Visit Lingyin Temple in the morning.
• Explore the nearby Feilai Feng rock carvings.
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving Dongpo Pork.
• Spend the evening in the bustling Hefang Street for shopping and street food.

Day

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