Exploring Hangzhou: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Hangzhou Travel Guide

1. Introduction to Hangzhou

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is one of China's most picturesque cities, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and historical significance. Located just 180 kilometers southwest of Shanghai, it has been celebrated as a cultural and economic hub for centuries, often referred to as "Heaven on Earth." The city is best known for its beautiful West Lake, lush tea plantations, and ancient temples, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.

2. Top Attractions

West Lake (Xi Hu)

• Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, West Lake is the heart of Hangzhou, famous for its scenic beauty and romantic ambiance. The lake is surrounded by hills and dotted with pagodas, temples, and gardens.
• Highlights:
  • Three Pools Mirroring the Moon: Iconic islets in the lake with ancient pagodas.
  • Broken Bridge: A famed spot for photography, especially during the winter months when snow adds to its charm.
  • Boat Rides: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride to take in the stunning views and the tranquility of the lake.

Lingyin Temple (Lingyin Si)

• Description: One of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in China, Lingyin Temple dates back to the 4th century. The temple complex is set amid lush greenery and offers a serene escape from the bustling city.
• Highlights:
  • Flying Peak (Fei Lai Feng): A nearby hill with ancient Buddhist carvings and statues.
  • Hall of the Great Hero: Houses a massive statue of Sakyamuni, the historical Buddha.
  • Cultural Events: Participate in traditional Buddhist ceremonies and learn about the history of Chinese Buddhism.

Longjing Tea Village (Longjing Cha Xiang)

• Description: Famous for producing Longjing tea (Dragon Well tea), this tranquil village is located just outside Hangzhou. Visitors can explore tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process.
• Highlights:
  • Tea Tastings: Sample different varieties of Longjing tea and appreciate its unique flavors.
  • Tea Picking Experience: Some farms allow visitors to participate in tea picking during the harvest season.
  • Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of terraced tea fields and surrounding hills.

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, rice wine, and spices until tender and flavorful.

Beggar's Chicken (叫化童子鸡)

• Description: A traditional dish that involves marinating a whole chicken, wrapping it in clay, and baking it until the clay hardens and the flavors meld. This method of cooking results in incredibly tender and fragrant chicken.

West Lake Vinegar Fish (西湖醋鱼)

• Description: A local specialty made from freshwater fish (usually carp) cooked in a sweet and sour vinegar sauce. It is a must-try when visiting West Lake.

4. Practical Tips

Booking Trips

• Ctrip and Booking.com:
  • Ctrip: Great for booking trains, flights, and local tours. The app is user-friendly and offers English language support.
  • Booking.com: Ideal for hotel reservations with plenty of reviews. Filter options by price, location, and amenities.

Making Payments

• Alipay: Widely used in China for cashless transactions. Set up an account through a Chinese bank or use a foreign credit card to create an account. It’s accepted in most restaurants, shops, and attractions.

Language Assistance

• Google Translate: Download the app and use the offline mode to translate menus and conversations. The camera feature is especially useful for translating signs and written text.

Taxi Services

• Didi: The Chinese equivalent of Uber. Download the app to book rides conveniently. It offers English language support and cashless payment options through Alipay.

Internet Access and VPN Considerations

• Internet Access: WiFi is available in most hotels and cafes. Consider getting a local SIM card for mobile data.
• VPN: To access Western social media and websites, download a VPN before your trip, as many are blocked in China.

5. Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and West Lake

• Arrive in Hangzhou and check into your hotel.
• Visit West Lake: explore the lakeside gardens and take a boat ride.
• Dinner at a local restaurant to try West Lake Vinegar Fish.

Day 2: Lingyin Temple and Tea Village

• Morning visit to Lingyin Temple

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