Hangzhou China 6 Day Itinerary
Hangzhou 6-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City
- Morning: Arrive at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) and take a taxi or metro (Line 1) to your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit the Hangzhou Museum () to learn about the city’s history and culture. Admission is free.
- Evening: Take a stroll around West Lake (), a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and try some street food.
Recommended Accommodation:
- Mid-range: Hangzhou Xixi Hotel (around ¥800 per night)
- Budget-friendly: Hangzhou Pods Hostel (around ¥200 per night)
Day 2: West Lake and Surroundings
- Morning: Take a boat ride on West Lake () to appreciate its beauty from a different perspective. Tickets cost around ¥50.
- Afternoon: Visit the Qinghefang Ancient Street (), a charming pedestrian street lined with traditional shops, restaurants, and teahouses.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Chinese dinner at Xixi Restaurant ().
Transportation:
- Metro: Hangzhou has an efficient metro system. Buy a prepaid card (¥20) for easy travel.
- Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but be prepared to show your destination in Chinese characters.
- Bus: An affordable option with routes covering most areas of the city.
Day 3: Tea Plantations and Villages
- Morning: Visit the Longjing Tea Plantation (), a famous green tea production area. Learn about tea-making processes and enjoy the scenic views.
- Afternoon: Explore the ancient village of Xixi (), known for its canals, bridges, and traditional architecture.
Tips:
- Try to avoid traveling during peak seasons (e.g., National Day, Labor Day) when popular attractions are extremely crowded.
- Download a VPN to access Google Maps and other Western apps, as they may be blocked in China.
Day 4: Temples and Gardens
- Morning: Visit the Lingyin Temple (), one of China’s most famous Buddhist temples. Admission costs around ¥35.
- Afternoon: Stroll through the beautiful Yue Fei Temple Garden (), a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Where to Eat:
- Dongpo Restaurant (): Savor traditional Hangzhou dishes, such as Dongpo pork and beggar’s chicken.
- Green Tea Restaurant (): Enjoy tea-infused cuisine in a serene atmosphere.
Day 5: Wuzhen Water Town
- Morning: Take a day trip to Wuzhen Water Town (), a charming ancient town famous for its canals, bridges, and traditional architecture. Admission costs around ¥150.
- Afternoon: Explore the town’s many shops, restaurants, and teahouses.
Day 6: Departure
- Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market, such as the Hangzhou Silk Market ().
- Afternoon: Depart for Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) and head back home.
Things to Know:
- Language: Mandarin Chinese is the primary language spoken in Hangzhou. Download a translation app or carry a phrasebook.
- Currency: Chinese yuan (RMB). Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still king.
- Weather: Hangzhou has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Pack accordingly.
This itinerary provides a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation, giving you a well-rounded experience of Hangzhou’s beauty and charm. Enjoy your trip!