Known for its scenic beauty, classical Chinese gardens, and rich cultural heritage, Hangzhou is celebrated as one of China’s most picturesque cities. This guide will cover the city’s must-see attractions, how to navigate around, the local culinary scene, and where to experience its vibrant nightlife.

Top Tourist Attractions in Hangzhou

1. West Lake (Xi Hu)

   • Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage site, West Lake is famous for its serene waters, lush surroundings, and historical sites. Key sights include the Broken Bridge, Su Causeway, and Leifeng Pagoda.
   • Getting There: Buses and the metro serve West Lake; you can also take a taxi directly.
   • Entrance Fee: Free to walk around, but certain sites around the lake, such as pagodas, may charge small fees.
   • Opening Hours: 24 hours (specific sites vary).

2. Lingyin Temple (Temple of the Soul’s Retreat)

   • Highlights: One of the oldest and wealthiest temples in China, known for its intricate carvings and statues within the caves of Feilai Feng.
   • Getting There: Buses 7, 807, and K837 go directly to Lingyin Temple.
   • Entrance Fee: CNY 45 for Lingyin Temple, CNY 30 for Feilai Feng Scenic Area.
   • Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM.

3. Leifeng Pagoda

   • Highlights: This pagoda offers panoramic views of West Lake and is linked to the Chinese legend of the White Snake.
   • Getting There: Buses 4, 31, or 51, or take a taxi to the West Lake area.
   • Entrance Fee: CNY 40.
   • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM.

4. Qinghefang Ancient Street

   • Highlights: A historical pedestrian street lined with traditional shops, tea houses, and snack stalls, giving visitors a glimpse into ancient Hangzhou.
   • Getting There: Take the metro to Ding’an Road Station and walk from there.
   • Entrance Fee: Free.
   • Opening Hours: Shops generally open from 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM.

5. Xixi National Wetland Park

   • Highlights: A beautiful urban wetland park with a variety of ecosystems and water channels, making it a relaxing place to explore by foot or boat.
   • Getting There: Take buses 310 or 346, or a taxi directly to the park.
   • Entrance Fee: CNY 80.
   • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM.

6. Tea Plantations in Longjing (Dragon Well) Village

   • Highlights: Famous for producing Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, this village offers tours and tastings in a scenic tea plantation setting.
   • Getting There: Bus 27 from West Lake or a taxi directly to Longjing Village.
   • Entrance Fee: Free, although some tea houses may charge for tea-tasting sessions.
   • Opening Hours: 24 hours (tea houses generally open from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM).

Getting Around Hangzhou

• Metro: The Hangzhou Metro is an efficient way to get around, covering most major attractions. Fares range from CNY 2 to CNY 9 depending on distance.
• Buses: Public buses are extensive and affordable, costing around CNY 2. Many routes go to tourist sites, but routes are mostly in Chinese.
• Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: Taxis are easy to find, and ride-hailing apps like Didi offer convenient service.
• Biking: Hangzhou has a popular public bike-sharing system that’s convenient for short distances, especially around West Lake.

Popular Local Foods to Try

1. Dongpo Pork: A famous Hangzhou dish of braised pork belly with a rich, sweet sauce, often served with rice.
2. Longjing Shrimp: Shrimp stir-fried with Dragon Well tea leaves, creating a unique and fragrant flavor.
3. West Lake Vinegar Fish: Sweet and sour fish, often served whole, using a fresh catch from West Lake.
4. Beggar’s Chicken: A flavorful whole chicken, marinated and wrapped in lotus leaves, then baked in clay.
5. Hangzhou Noodles with Soy Sauce: Simple but flavorful noodles tossed with soy sauce, scallions, and sometimes pork.

Top Nightlife Spots in Hangzhou

1. JZ Club

   • Highlights: Hangzhou’s premier jazz club with a cozy, intimate atmosphere. It offers a mix of live jazz, blues, and soul performances.
   • Location: 6 Baochu Road, near West Lake.
   • Entrance Fee: Free entry on weekdays; weekends may charge CNY 50-100.
   • Happy Hours: Typically from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

2. Eudora Station

   • Highlights: A lively bar and restaurant with outdoor seating and live music, popular among both locals and expats.
   • Location: 101-7 Nanshan Road, near West Lake.
   • Entrance Fee: Free entry.
   • Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with discounts on beers and cocktails.

3. West Lake Night Cruise

   • Highlights: A peaceful boat cruise on West Lake, offering a different perspective of Hangzhou’s scenery at night.
   • Location: Pier locations vary; bookable at major tourist spots near the lake.
   • Entrance Fee: CNY 45 – CNY 90 depending on the route.
   • Happy Hours: Not applicable, but evening cruises around sunset are most popular.

4. Mao Livehouse

   • Highlights: A well-known live music venue in Hangzhou, hosting indie, rock, and electronic acts, with both local and international artists.
   • Location: 308 Xiangyang Road.
   • Entrance Fee: Varies by event, typically CNY 50 – 100.
   • Happy Hours: Varies; some events may have early-bird drink specials.

5. Sawasdee Thai Restaurant & Bar

   • Highlights: Known for its Thai food and trendy bar atmosphere, with an open terrace and views of the Qiantang River.
   • Location: 15 Xihu International Club, Shangcheng District.
   • Entrance Fee: Free entry.
   • Happy Hours: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with discounts on cocktails and imported beers.

6. Club G+

   • Highlights: A high-energy nightclub popular with younger locals and visitors, offering themed nights and guest DJs.
   • Location: Building 6, Hangzhou Tower.
   • Entrance Fee: Around CNY 100 – CNY 150 depending on the event.
   • Happy Hours: Usually from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Hangzhou offers a relaxing yet vibrant travel experience, combining beautiful natural sites, a rich cultural history, and a growing nightlife scene. Whether you’re enjoying a boat ride on West Lake, exploring ancient temples, sampling local delicacies, or dancing the night away, Hangzhou provides a refreshing escape and a glimpse into traditional and modern Chinese culture.