Recommended Days
1-2 days
Sufficient for West Lake, Jixian Pavilion & Leifeng Pagoda, and Lingyin Temple.
China City Guide
Hangzhou
Plan Hangzhou in minutes. Attractions, food, transport, and practical tips for first-time visitors.
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Best Time to Visit
Decline invitations to 'tea festivals' or 'grandpa's tea farm' near the lake.
Budget (Daily)
$80 - $200 USD
Hotels vary greatly. Dining is affordable.
Top 5 Highlights
West Lake (西湖)
Jixian Pavilion & Leifeng Pagoda (集贤亭 & 雷峰塔)
Lingyin Temple (灵隐寺)
Feilai Peak (飞来峰)
Faxi Temple (法喜寺)
Curated Itineraries
The 1-Day Balanced Hangzhou Route
4 days • Food Lovers
Welcome to Hangzhou!
Moderate Pace Food Focus
Open Itinerary Explore Hangzhou
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Xileng Bridge (西冷桥)
One of the most famous bridge on the lake
Hours: Open all day
Jixian Pavilion & Leifeng Pagoda (集贤亭 & 雷峰塔)
See the floating Jixian Pavilion, then climb Leifeng Pagoda for the best panoramic view of the lake
Hours: 8:00 – 20:00
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Dongpo Pork
Fatty pork belly braised in soy sauce and wine. Named after the poet Su Dongpo
Crab Roe Noodles
Noodles with crab roe, a classic delicacy from Hangzhou
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Where to Stay
West Lake East (Hubin Area)
Best for Day 1 & 2- + Near the Metro and malls
- + Convenient
- - Can be busy
Near the Metro and malls
West Lake West
Best for Day 3- + Quiet, near tea fields
- - More expensive resorts
Transportation
Arrival by Air
- Air: Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport (HGH) reaches downtown via metro, airport bus, and taxi.
Arrival by Train
- Train: Hangzhou East is the primary high-speed rail hub; Hangzhou Station and Hangzhou South are secondary options.
City Transport
- Metro: Use Alipay. Connects the East Station to West Lake (Line 1).
- West Lake Loop: The loop is long (15km). Use the West Lake Sightseeing Battery Carts or rent a Public Bike.
Critical Tips
Skip Songcheng
Often considered commercialized and overpriced compared to authentic sites.
Beware of Tea Scams
Decline invitations to 'tea festivals' or 'grandpa's tea farm' near the lake. Buy only from established shops.
Vinegar Fish Warning
It has a strong sour and earthy taste. Stick to Dongpo Pork if you prefer safer options.
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