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.

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!