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Don't miss the exhilarating Dragon Boat Racing tradition when visiting Hangzhou! During the annual Dragon Boat Festival, West Lake comes alive with heart-pounding races featuring drumbeats and synchronized paddling. Beyond watching the competitions, you can try making zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) or craft aromatic sachets for a full cultural immersion. It's not just a sport spectacle - it's your gateway to experiencing China's vibrant heritage firsthand.
If you're looking for a stay that combines urban convenience with a serene escape, this hotel is the perfect choice. Located in Xihu District with direct subway access, it offers unbeatable convenience. The hotel blends Chinese culture with modern minimalist design, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Rooms are well-equipped, and amenities like Chinese wellness breakfast, fitness center, and laundry room ensure a comfortable stay. Nearby attractions include Xixi Wetland Park and West Lake, making it easy to explore Hangzhou's natural beauty. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel promises a memorable experience.
This is the perfect choice for both business and leisure! The hotel boasts a prime location near the subway and Xixi Wetland, just minutes away from shopping malls and attractions. Enjoy top-notch amenities like dryers, laundry services, and even robot services for a futuristic touch. With 24-hour front desk and free parking, your stay will be hassle-free. The breakfast and service are highly praised, offering great value for money. Whether for work or travel, this place has got you covered. Come and experience it yourself!
Nestled in the heart of Future Science City, this boutique business hotel offers unbeatable convenience with the subway station just steps away. Enjoy 24-hour front desk service and free parking, along with handy amenities like a laundry room and dryer to make your stay effortless. The stylish rooms feature modern comforts, and the attentive staff will make you feel right at home. Perfect for business travelers with its proximity to Alibaba and tech parks, plus great value for money. Don’t miss the Jiuyanqiao night views – your ideal stay awaits!
This hotel is the perfect choice for both business trips and family vacations! Located right opposite the Xixi Wetland Scenic Area, it's just a short walk away, and you can easily reach popular spots like West Lake and Songcheng. The hotel offers excellent amenities, including 24-hour free coffee, a self-service laundry, and free parking, along with a diverse breakfast menu to start your day. The rooms are cozy, the service is attentive, and the front desk is welcoming, all at a great value. Nearby, you’ll find the trendy "18th Street Bistro" for delicious food and great vibes. Whether for business or leisure, this place promises a warm and refined experience!
This is the perfect blend of business and leisure! Nestled in the heart of Hangzhou's west side, just minutes from the subway with free parking for ultimate convenience. Enjoy top-notch facilities, plush bedding, non-smoking floors, and 24-hour front desk with impeccable service. Steps away from Xixi Wetland and Lingyin North Peak, plus Jiuyan Bridge night views for unforgettable moments. Zhejiang University campuses and local eateries surround the area, ideal for work or play. With late check-out till 2pm and unbeatable value, it’s a steal you won’t regret!
Everything you need to know about Dragon Boat Racing
Hangzhou West Lake Guesthouse is ideal for dragon boat race enthusiasts, located just a 10-minute walk from the competition venue along West Lake’s southern shore. The hotel features lake-view rooms and tranquil Garden Courtyards, with some suites offering panoramic views of the West Lake waterways and rowing lanes. Complimentary shuttle services ensure easy access to the event site. During the Dragon Boat Festival, guests can enjoy themed afternoon teas and exclusive intangible cultural heritage tours, immersing themselves in authentic Jiangnan water town traditions.
Take Line 1 Metro to "Longxiang Bridge Station," then transfer to Bus 7 or 318 bound for "Sudi South Gate." It’s a 5-minute walk to the venue. For drivers, use GPS to locate "West Lake Scenic Area - Dragon Boat Race Site"; temporary parking zones are available nearby. However, public transit is strongly recommended to avoid congestion. During festival periods, multiple free shuttle buses run from central hubs to major hotels and attractions, with trips lasting about 20 minutes, ensuring efficient and stress-free access.
Beyond watching the thrilling races, visitors can join dragon boat painting workshops, where they decorate miniature boats and experience traditional craftsmanship. On-site Zhuangyuan Festival exhibitions showcase customs like mugwort, five-color threads, and zongzi-making. Guests may also participate in lake parades with local teams, feeling the spirit of collective effort. Some hotels offer themed Dragon Boat Culture Gift Boxes containing handmade sachets, limited-edition badges, and festival recipes—perfect souvenirs to take home.
Must-try Hangzhou salted meat zongzi, made with glutinous rice, braised pork, and fresh shrimp, offering a rich, savory flavor. Also sample osmanthus sugar lotus root, filled with osmanthus syrup and served warm or chilled—sweet without being cloying. Street vendors sell mugwort green rice balls and lotus leaf rice, blending natural scents with traditional techniques. Some hotels offer Festival Special Dining Sets featuring these local treats paired with custom Zhuangyuan tea drinks, perfect for enjoying by the lake with scenic views.
The Hangzhou Dragon Boat Race is primarily held on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month (Duanwu Festival), corresponding to late May to early June in the Gregorian calendar. This period marks early summer, with mild weather and calm lake conditions—ideal for aquatic events. Pre-race competitions, such as the "West Lake Dragon Boat Invitational," often begin a week prior, while the main events take place on the festival day and the following day, drawing professional teams and spectators nationwide. Plan ahead to avoid congestion and secure accommodations during peak travel times.
Book through Amazon Hotels Group’s official website or HopeGoo Travel Platform using keywords like "Hangzhou West Lake Dragon Boat Festival Package," which often include lake-view rooms, race tickets, and intangible cultural heritage tours. Boutique stays like "Xizi Villa" offer dragon boat-themed rooms with traditional patterns and race decor, plus complimentary Zhuangyuan gift boxes. Due to high demand, especially during the festival, it’s recommended to reserve at least 45 days in advance, as popular rooms frequently sell out within hours of availability.
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