Hangzhou China 2 Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning
9:00 am - Arrival and Breakfast
Arrive at Hangzhou’s West Lake (Xi Hu) area. Start your day with a traditional Chinese breakfast at Xiao Xian Cafe, a local favorite for traditional Hangzhou dishes like steamed buns and congee.
10:00 am - West Lake
Visit the iconic West Lake (Xi Hu), a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake’s southern part, visiting scenic spots such as:
- Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon: A beautiful garden with three small ponds that reflect the surrounding scenery.
- The Causeway to Solitary Beauty Temple: A charming walking path lined with willow trees and offering great views of the lake.
Afternoon
1:00 pm - Lunch
Take a break for lunch at Dongpo Restaurant, a local institution serving traditional Hangzhou cuisine. Try their signature dishes like Dongpo pork or steamed fish in soy sauce.
2:30 pm - Lingyin Temple and Silk Museum
Visit the famous Lingyin Temple, a Buddhist temple known for its intricate carvings, sculptures, and paintings. Then, head to the nearby Hangzhou Impression of Silk Museum to learn about China’s silk-making history and see live demonstrations.
Evening
6:00 pm - Dinner
Enjoy dinner at Lei Garden, a popular restaurant serving a wide range of Chinese dishes with a focus on Cantonese cuisine.
8:00 pm - Nighttime West Lake
Return to West Lake for an evening stroll, taking in the beautiful scenery and possibly catching some street performances or live music.
Day 2:
Morning
9:00 am - Qinghefang Ancient Street
Visit Qinghefang Ancient Street, a charming pedestrian street lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and restaurants. Take your time to explore the street’s various sections, including:
- Tea Houses: Try some local tea varieties or enjoy a cup of coffee in one of the many tea houses.
- Traditional Shops: Browse through shops selling traditional clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Afternoon
1:00 pm - Lunch
Take a break for lunch at Qinghefang Restaurant, serving traditional Hangzhou cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
2:30 pm - Xixi National Wetland Park
Visit the beautiful Xixi National Wetland Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its tranquil waterways, lush vegetation, and abundant wildlife. Take an electric boat ride or hike through the park’s scenic trails to experience its natural beauty.
Evening
6:00 pm - Dinner
Enjoy dinner at Wanfu Restaurant, a popular spot serving traditional Chinese cuisine with a focus on Cantonese dishes.
8:00 pm - Farewell Hangzhou
Return to your hotel, take some time to reflect on your two-day adventure in Hangzhou, and prepare for your departure the next morning.
Accommodation:
- Grand Metropark Hotel Hangzhou: A 5-star hotel located near West Lake, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service.
- Hyatt Regency Hangzhou: A 5-star hotel situated near Xixi National Wetland Park, providing modern amenities and a relaxing atmosphere.
Transportation:
- Taxi: Available throughout the city, but be prepared for traffic congestion during peak hours.
- Bus: An affordable option for shorter trips within the city.
- Metro: Hangzhou’s metro system is expanding rapidly; use it to travel between major areas of interest.
Tips and Essentials:
- Language: Mandarin Chinese is the primary language spoken in Hangzhou. Learn some basic phrases like "" (nǐ hǎo) for hello, and "" (xiè xiè) for thank you.
- Weather: Hangzhou’s climate is subtropical with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for heat and humidity during summer months.
- Currency: The Chinese yuan (RMB) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas.
This itinerary provides a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious food, showcasing the best of Hangzhou’s attractions. Enjoy your travels!