Hangzhou(China) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

Hangzhou, often referred to as "Heaven on Earth", is the capital of Zhejiang Province in China, renowned for its picturesque West Lake and profound cultural heritage. The city's culinary culture blends the delicacy of Jiangnan water towns with tradition, and Hangzhou cuisine is a representative of Zhejiang cuisine, one of China's Eight Great Cuisines. Must-try dishes include West Lake Vinegar Fish, made with grass fish from the lake, offering a sweet-and-sour flavor with tender meat; Dongpo Pork, a melt-in-your-mouth braised pork belly named after the poet Su Dongpo; and Longjing Shrimp, a fragrant dish combining local Longjing tea with fresh shrimp. Don’t miss local noodles like Pian'erchuan and Cat's Ear Noodles, which are unique to the region.

Hangzhou, the capital of China's Zhejiang Province, is renowned for its West Lake scenery, often called "Paradise on Earth."

Transportation

• Metro: Hangzhou has an extensive metro network with multiple lines covering major attractions like West Lake and Lingyin Temple, making it the most convenient way to get around.
• Bus: The bus system is well-developed and budget-friendly.
• Taxi/Ride-hailing: Widely available and reasonably priced, ideal for groups or travelers with luggage.
• Bike-sharing: As one of the birthplaces of bike-sharing, cycling around West Lake is a unique experience.

Travel Tips

• Avoid rush hours: Subways and buses can be crowded during peak times.
• Use mobile payments: Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, while cash is less common.
• Book popular attractions in advance: Sites like Lingyin Temple and Leifeng Pagoda may require online reservations to skip queues.
• Seasonal advice: Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for visiting.

Hangzhou, known as the "Paradise on Earth," captivates visitors with its picturesque West Lake and rich cultural heritage. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, the city enjoys mild weather, with peach and cherry blossoms blooming around the lake, creating a stunning scene. Autumn brings clear skies and the fragrant osmanthus flowers, perfect for tea tasting. Summer (June to August) can be hot, but it’s ideal for exploring the lush Longjing tea plantations. Winter (December to February) sees fewer tourists, offering a quieter experience. No matter the season, Hangzhou’s timeless charm will leave a lasting impression.

1. Weather Preparation: Hangzhou has distinct seasons, with hot and humid summers and cold winters. Pack accordingly—sunscreen for summer and warm clothing for winter.
2. Transport Tips: Hangzhou's metro system is efficient. Use public transport to avoid traffic congestion, especially during rush hours.
3. Cultural Etiquette: Locals value politeness. Keep your voice down in public spaces to avoid disturbing others.
4. Food Safety: While Hangzhou offers diverse cuisine, opt for restaurants with good hygiene standards over street vendors.
5. Attraction Reservations: Popular sites like West Lake and Lingyin Temple require advance bookings to skip long queues.
6. Theft Prevention: Crowded tourist spots are prone to pickpocketing. Secure your belongings and carry minimal cash.
7. Language Tips: Mandarin is widely spoken, but some elders use dialects. A translation app can be handy.
8. Eco-Friendly Practices: Hangzhou emphasizes environmental protection. Dispose of trash properly and refrain from smoking in scenic areas.

Essential Travel Guide to Hangzhou

Language: Mandarin is the primary language. Basic English may be understood in tourist areas. Learning simple phrases (e.g., "Xièxiè" for "Thank you") is helpful.

Internet & Communication:

• Free Wi-Fi is available in public spaces (e.g., West Lake area), but requires a local phone number for verification.
• Consider purchasing a local SIM card (China Mobile/Unicom) or enabling international roaming.

Currency & Payments:

• The official currency is CNY (RMB). Cash is used in small vendors, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay/Alipay) dominate.
• Foreign visitors can link international credit cards to e-wallets or exchange cash at banks.

Transportation:

• Metro lines connect major attractions (e.g., Longxiangqiao Station near West Lake). Use the "Hangzhou Metro" APP for routes.
• Bike-sharing (Hello/HopeGoo) is ideal for short trips; scan QR codes after ID verification.

Emergencies:

• Dial 110 (police) or 120 (ambulance). Some hospitals offer international clinics.
• Keep contact details of your consulate in Shanghai handy.

Cultural Notes:

• Drones are banned in scenic zones like West Lake without permits.
• Dress modestly in temples (e.g., Lingyin Temple) and avoid loud noises.