Stroll along the Shangtang River to embrace Hangzhou's most poetic water town charm. This 1,000-year-old canal once thrived as a bustling trade route, now transformed into an urban oasis with willow-draped banks and egrets dancing over gentle waves. Don't miss the classic painted boats - gliding past ink-wash landscape scenes to the rhythm of oars. When twilight falls, stone bridges glow above shimmering reflections like portals to ancient times. Cap off your visit with Dragon Well tea at waterfront teahouses, savoring the art of slow living just like locals do.

This hotel is a perfect urban oasis with direct metro access—minutes to West Lake and Grand Canal. Its award-winning design blends luxury with smart features like floor-to-ceiling windows and UV-sanitized amenities. Families love the playzone and kid-friendly services, while business travelers appreciate the executive floors and 24/7 laundry. Unique touches: robot butlers, bike rentals, and even fishing permits! With soundproof rooms and ergonomic beds, it’s your home away from home in Hangzhou.

This hotel is absolutely amazing! Located in the Grand Canal business district, just a short walk to Gongchen Bridge and Metro Line 5, making it super convenient. Surrounded by cultural landmarks like the Grand Canal Museum and Qiaoxi Historical Block, it’s perfect for explorers. The rooms are equipped with Dyson hairdryers and Serta mattresses for ultimate comfort. Enjoy amenities like the fitness center, laundry room, and kids’ play area, ideal for families and business travelers. With robot service and 24-hour front desk, your stay will be seamless. Don’t miss out!
Everything you need to know about Shangtanghe
Hangzhou Shangtang River Yun She Villa stands out, housed in a restored Qing Dynasty residence with private courtyards and sky-lit terraces. Guests enjoy handcrafted local breakfasts, including steamed buns and osmanthus porridge. Another top choice is Yinju Shangtang, located by a century-old dock with a waterfront tea pavilion and meditation garden. Both properties use reclaimed stone and timber, earning them "China's Most Beautiful Homestay" awards for their commitment to sustainability and cultural authenticity. Perfect for travelers seeking immersive, quiet retreats.
Don’t miss the Hanging Lantern Procession every Saturday night, where hundreds of handmade paper lanterns float down the river, reflecting in the water like stars. Local artisans also host ancient boat carving workshops, teaching how to craft miniature canal boats using traditional tools. During daytime, visit the Dadu Road Cultural District, a preserved alleyway with 100-year-old shops selling handwoven silk and antique maps. These activities offer deep insight into Hangzhou’s maritime heritage and artistic traditions.
Take Metro Line 4 from Hangzhou East Station to Gongchen Bridge East Station, a 25-minute ride. Exit and walk 8 minutes to reach Shangtang River’s core area. Alternatively, rent an electric scooter via app—just 15 minutes through the Dadu Road Historic District, passing classic white-walled lanes and ancient bridges. For comfort, pre-book a private car transfer (~¥60) with guided commentary. All options accept mobile payments—no need to change lines or carry cash.
Yes! Shangtang River Kids’ Nature Park features a mini waterwheel interactive zone, wetland birdwatching platform, and eco-education classroom where children observe native crabs and egrets. Daily at 10 a.m., join the Treasure Hunt Adventure, combining map puzzles with nature stamping. There’s also a bamboo weaving workshop for parents and kids to craft small baskets from riverbank bamboo. The park offers free stroller and raincoat rentals—ideal for families with children aged 3–12.
At night, Shangtang River transforms into a luminous dreamscape: hundreds of floating paper lanterns create a starlit reflection on the water. The Ming-era stone bridge glows under soft lighting, forming dramatic silhouettes. Every Saturday evening, enjoy live traditional Chinese music performances featuring guqin and pipa playing "Spring River Moonlight Night." Additionally, the riverside coffee & book café stays open until midnight, offering river-view seating and Hanfu rental for guests wanting to stroll the banks in period attire.
Hangzhou Shangtang River Yinyu Residence offers panoramic views from its glass-walled suites, each designed with reclaimed timber floors and courtyard balconies. Enjoy private riverfront breakfasts with fresh dim sum and local green tea. Nearby, Hidden Shangtang features a floating tea pavilion and Zen garden, hosting daily Tai Chi sessions at dawn. Both properties blend historical architecture with modern comfort, earning recognition as "Top Sustainable Retreats in China." Ideal for discerning travelers seeking tranquility and cultural depth.
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