Hangzhou, China-3-day-itinerary

Hangzhou, China 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: West Lake and the Surroundings

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at Qinghefang Ancient Street, a well-preserved traditional street with shops, restaurants, and tea houses. Try some local snacks and drinks.
  • 10:30 AM: Visit Wucai Temple, a beautiful Taoist temple that’s home to a famous statue of the Buddha.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at Lou Wai Lou, a popular restaurant serving traditional Hangzhou cuisine. Try their signature dish, Dongpo pork.
  • 1:30 PM: Take a leisurely boat ride on West Lake (Xi Hu), a stunning lake with gardens, temples, and scenic views.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy a sunset dinner at Leiqiu Restaurant, which offers traditional Chinese cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • 8:00 PM: End your day with a walk around the lake’s scenic area, taking in the beautiful views and peaceful atmosphere.

Where to Stay

For this itinerary, consider staying in the Qinghefang Ancient Street or West Lake areas. Some recommended hotels include:

  • JW Marriott Hangzhou
  • Shangri-La Hotel Hangzhou
  • The Westin Hangzhou

Transportation

  • Airport Transfer: Take a taxi or bus (No. 1 and No. 2) from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport to your hotel.
  • Getting Around: Use taxis, buses, or take the metro (Line 1) for easy transportation.

Things to Know

  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the primary language spoken in Hangzhou, but many locals also speak some English. Be prepared with a translation app or phrasebook if needed.
  • Weather: Hangzhou has a humid subtropical climate. Bring sunscreen and light clothing for spring and autumn visits.

Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and cultural sites. Remove your shoes before entering some temples.
  • Try the Local Cuisine: Hangzhou is famous for its dishes like Dongpo pork, West Lake fish in silk, and Beggar’s chicken.

Day 2: Hangzhou’s Cultural Attractions

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit Hangzhou Museum, which showcases the city’s history and cultural heritage.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the Zhejiang University campus, a beautiful campus with gardens, museums, and art galleries.

Afternoon

  • 12:30 PM: Have lunch at Dragon Well Tea House, famous for its Dragon Well tea and traditional Hangzhou cuisine.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Hangzhou Opera House, a modern architectural wonder that hosts cultural performances and events.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Cuiyuan Restaurant, which offers traditional Chinese cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • 8:00 PM: Attend a traditional Hangzhou performance, such as the Hangzhou Opera or Lion Dance, if schedules permit.

Where to Stay

If you’re staying in the city center, consider moving to an area like Hangzhou’s Cultural Street for easier access to cultural attractions. Some recommended hotels include:

  • The St. Regis Hangzhou
  • Hyatt Regency Hangzhou

Transportation

Use taxis, buses, or take the metro (Line 1) for easy transportation.

Things to Know

  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the primary language spoken in Hangzhou, but many locals also speak some English. Be prepared with a translation app or phrasebook if needed.
  • Weather: Hangzhou has a humid subtropical climate. Bring sunscreen and light clothing for spring and autumn visits.

Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and cultural sites. Remove your shoes before entering some temples.
  • Try the Local Cuisine: Hangzhou is famous for its dishes like Dongpo pork, West Lake fish in silk, and Beggar’s chicken.

Day 3: More of Hangzhou’s Hidden Gems

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit Leifeng Pagoda, a small but beautiful temple located on the south bank of West Lake.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the Xixi National Wetland Park, a protected area with natural beauty and scenic views.

Afternoon

  • 12:30 PM: Have lunch at Garden Hotel’s restaurant, which offers traditional Hangzhou cuisine.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Hangzhou Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis with beautiful gardens and plant species.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Lingyin Temple Restaurant, famous for its vegetarian dishes and beautiful garden setting.
  • 8:00 PM: End your day with a relaxing walk in one of Hangzhou’s many parks or gardens, taking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Where to Stay

Consider staying in an area like Hangzhou’s Cultural Street for easy access to cultural attractions. Some recommended hotels include:

  • The Langham Hotel Hangzhou
  • Four Seasons Resort Hangzhou at West Lake

Transportation

Use taxis, buses, or take the metro (Line 1) for easy transportation.

Things to Know

  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the primary language spoken in Hangzhou, but many locals also speak some English. Be prepared with a translation app or phrasebook if needed.
  • Weather: Hangzhou has a humid subtropical climate. Bring sunscreen and light clothing for spring and autumn visits.

Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and cultural sites. Remove your shoes before entering some temples.
  • Try the Local Cuisine: Hangzhou is famous for its dishes like Dongpo pork, West Lake fish in silk, and Beggar’s chicken.