2024 Hangzhou Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)
Well-known for its extraordinary beauty and elegance, Hangzhou is the capital of Zhejiang Province and one of the most impressive tourist destinations in China. Historically important and naturally stunning, Hangzhou together with nearby Suzhou is celebrated in China as “Heaven on Earth.”Located in East China's Yangtze River Delta and the northern part of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou is a major commercial and trade city with an estimated urban population of 8 million people. There are 10 urban districts with Gongshu District being the central heart of the city and enjoys convenient transportation. Xihu District is to the west of the city and where the famous West Lake is located.Historically, Hangzhou has for centuries been known for its fine silk and tea productions, but the city didn’t reach its political importance until Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279 AD) when the Emperor relocated the capital to Hangzhou. The city’s wealth and commerce grew further in the Ming Dynasty after the construction of the Grand Canal - the oldest and longest canal in the world - linking Hangzhou to Beijing and other ocean trade routes. Today, Hangzhou continues to be an economic center of east-central China.Most people traveling to Hangzhou by air will use the Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport. This large international airport has several transfer options to the city including airport shuttle buses (around 20 routes in and around the city), taxi, and car rental. Getting around town is also easy and budget-friendly, as there are lots of city bus lines and 5 special sightseeing bus lines that can take visitors to most attractions across Hangzhou. There is also an efficient Metro system and abundant taxis available as transport options.From the beautiful West Lake to romantic bridges, tranquil tea plantations to ancient shrines and temples, Hangzhou is one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. There are so many awe-inspiring scenic spots in Hangzhou, it will take a few days to just tick off the top destinations. For those unforgettable experiences, visitors can consider taking a sunset stroll or ride a bike around the West Lake, visit a picturesque water town outside Hangzhou (e.g. Wuzhen and Xitang), learn about the tea culture, or see a Giant Panda in Hangzhou Zoo, etc.
Today's Weather
Foggy 2-13℃
Popular Attractions
The West Lake
Hangzhou Songcheng Park
Lingyin Temple
Qiandao Lake
Xixi National Wetland Park
Popular Trip Moments
No wonder it's Tonglu | A private hot spring mountain lodge you can stay at all day! | Hangzhou! Lingyin Temple! Don't miss this garden hotel! | Buffet Breakfast with a View: Fengqi Chaoming · Dragon Hotel | Celebrate the New Year in a mountain homestay with a variety of activities | Tonglu | Hangzhou Canal Huanglong Bright Hotel: Malaysian Durian Food Festival | Moli Rongjun | Hangzhou's Little Santorini. Stay in a Valley Tea Garden | A Fairyland in Hangzhou You Won't Want to Leave | The nostalgic Wenyuan Pier is more than just a place to see the orange sea. | The warmth of winter in Hangzhou comes from this restaurant's pig offal congee. | Visit Fuyang, play at the wildlife park, and eat authentic private dishes! | Leifeng Pagoda, Zhejiang| | This Place in Hangzhou is as Good as Kyoto for Maple Viewing | Tangqi Ancient Town, Hangzhou, Zhejiang | Holiday Getaway Fuchun River View Homestay | Guifang Bridge, Hangzhou, Zhejiang | Hangzhou's fashion show birthday party was held in the land of Oz | Winter Travel | Pure and Tranquil "Hangzhou Run Hotel" | Hangzhou | Lotus Flowers Reflecting in the Green Water, the Long-lasting Charm of Hangzhou | Hidden Café in De Shou Palace with Cute Coffee | Perfect Qiandao Lake, a great place to take your kids | Best Time to See Maple Leaves in Hangzhou: Huagang Park | Hangzhou Family Hiking | Let's Go See the Rime | Students will be moved to tears. You must stay at this hotel when you come to Hangzhou! | Best Meal in Hang Zhou, China | It's so special here, you'll fall in love with it | Yue Fei Temple | Zhejiang West Lake | A Relaxing Boat Ride on West Lake | Hangzhou West Lake | A Place of No Return, by the Green Shadows of West Lake | A seafood feast with great value for money! The lunch special is a great deal~~ | Escape to the Mountains|Arrive at the Autumn Mountains and Sea Recommended Attractions at Popular Destinations
Popular Restaurants in Hangzhou