Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province in eastern China, has a population of about 10 million and is a city with a rich history and modern development. As one of China’s Seven Ancient Capitals, its history dates back to the 5th century BC, when it was the capital of the Kingdom of Wu and Yue. One of its most famous historical landmarks is West Lake, a beautiful body of water surrounded by stunning landscapes, often referred to as “Heaven on Earth.” West Lake not only serves as the city’s emblem but also symbolizes Chinese traditional garden art and poetic culture.
Economically, Hangzhou has experienced rapid growth in recent years, especially in the digital economy, e-commerce, and technological innovation. It is home to the headquarters of Alibaba Group, making it a global hub for internet technology and innovation. Thanks to its vibrant innovation ecosystem, Hangzhou is often referred to as China’s “Silicon Valley,” with strong competitiveness in finance, manufacturing, logistics, and other industries.
As a tourist destination, Hangzhou attracts visitors with its beautiful natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. In addition to West Lake, attractions like Lingyin Temple, Qiandao Lake, and Song Dynasty Town make Hangzhou a perfect example of the blend of culture and nature. The city is also famous for its tea culture, with Longjing tea being one of its most iconic products.
Hangzhou is not only the political, economic, and cultural center of Zhejiang Province but also plays a significant role on a national scale. It is part of the Yangtze River Delta Economic Zone and has a prime geographical location with convenient transportation links. The development of high-speed railways and highways has made Hangzhou an important hub for both domestic and international exchanges. With its growth, Hangzhou’s global influence continues to rise, attracting more foreign investment and cultural exchange.
Overall, Hangzhou is a city that combines ancient traditions with modernity, nature with technology, and is one of China’s key cultural, tourism, and economic centers.
scenic spot
West Lake (Xihu)
West Lake is one of the most iconic attractions in Hangzhou, often referred to as “Heaven on Earth.” The lake is vast, surrounded by beautiful islands, ancient bridges, and gardens, with each season offering a different charm. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake and enjoy sights like the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, Broken Bridge, and Leifeng Pagoda.
Lingyin Temple
Lingyin Temple is one of China’s most significant Buddhist temples, dating back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty. The temple is known for its grand architecture and serene atmosphere, housing many impressive Buddha statues. The surrounding hills offer scenic hiking trails, making it a peaceful place to enjoy nature and spirituality.
Leifeng Pagoda
Leifeng Pagoda is a landmark building on the southern shore of West Lake. Its tall, ancient structure offers a stunning view of the lake. The pagoda is also tied to the legendary love story of “The Legend of the White Snake,” with famous characters like Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of West Lake and its surrounding landscape.
Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake)
Located to the west of Hangzhou, Qiandao Lake is named for the 1,078 islands scattered across its waters. This picturesque area is a popular retreat for those seeking clear waters and lush green hills. Visitors can take boat tours around the islands, engage in water sports, or simply enjoy the tranquil natural beauty by the lakeside.
Songcheng
Songcheng is a theme park that showcases the history and culture of the Song Dynasty. The park features numerous performances, including the famous “Songcheng Eternal Love” show, a spectacular blend of dance, music, and high-tech visual effects. It’s an entertaining experience for the whole family.
Longjing Village
Longjing Village, located southwest of West Lake, is famous for its production of Longjing tea. The scenic tea plantations are a major draw, where visitors can tour the fields, learn about tea harvesting and production, and taste fresh Longjing tea while soaking in the tranquil rural atmosphere.
Xixi Wetland Park
Xixi Wetland is a natural wetland reserve and the “green lung” of Hangzhou. With rich vegetation and abundant birdlife, it is an ideal place for walking, cycling, and photography. The park features winding paths and bridges, allowing visitors to experience the peaceful beauty of nature.
Hangzhou Museum
If you’re interested in learning more about Hangzhou’s history and culture, the Hangzhou Museum is a great place to visit. The museum houses a large collection of artifacts and artworks that showcase the city’s development over the centuries.
Hangzhou Botanical Garden
Located southeast of West Lake, the Hangzhou Botanical Garden is a comprehensive garden with a wide variety of plant species. Visitors can explore different themed areas like the tropical plant section and herb garden. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers to relax and take photos.
Grand Canal Cultural Area
Hangzhou is the starting point of the Grand Canal, the longest man-made waterway in the world. The Grand Canal Cultural Area preserves many historical sites related to the canal. Here, you can see ancient buildings and traditional canal boats, which transport you back in time to ancient China.
Relish Culture And Life
West Lake Boat Tour
Taking a boat tour on West Lake is a classic way to experience Hangzhou. You can enjoy the cool breeze on the water while admiring famous sights such as the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, Broken Bridge, and Leifeng Pagoda. Depending on the time of day, you may also catch West Lake’s misty mornings or stunning sunsets, each offering a different view of the lake.
Cycling Around West Lake
There are dedicated bike paths around West Lake, and renting a bike to cycle around the lake is another great way to experience the area. You can stop at various scenic spots to take photos or rest at one of the lakeside teahouses. Cycling around West Lake allows you to enjoy the beauty of the area up close and at your own pace.
Tasting Longjing Tea
Visiting Longjing Village and tasting authentic Longjing tea is a must for many visitors to Hangzhou. You can tour the tea plantations, learn about the process of tea picking and production, and even try your hand at picking tea leaves. Tasting fresh Longjing tea while experiencing the local tea culture is a unique and relaxing activity.
Hiking or Boating in Xixi Wetlands
Xixi Wetlands is a natural reserve and one of Hangzhou’s hidden gems. With its lush vegetation and abundant birdlife, it’s an ideal place for hiking or boating. You can walk along the peaceful trails or take a boat ride on the quiet waters, enjoying a close connection with nature in a tranquil environment.
Songcheng Eternal Love Show
Songcheng is a theme park that blends history and entertainment. The “Songcheng Eternal Love” show is a spectacular performance that combines dance, music, and high-tech visual effects to showcase the history and culture of the Song Dynasty and Hangzhou. It’s a great experience for the whole family and an engaging way to learn about the city’s history.
Experience Hangzhou’s Nightlife
Hangzhou’s nights are equally captivating, with the night views of West Lake being especially enchanting. You can join a night tour of the lake, cruising on a boat while enjoying the illuminated scenery along the shores. The city’s night markets, such as Hefang Street and Wushan Night Market, are also popular for tasting local snacks, buying handicrafts, and experiencing Hangzhou’s vibrant nightlife.
Visit the Hangzhou Museum or China Tea Museum
If you’re interested in Hangzhou’s history and culture, both the Hangzhou Museum and the China Tea Museum are highly recommended. The Hangzhou Museum offers a wealth of historical artifacts and artworks, while the China Tea Museum provides an in-depth look at the origins and evolution of Chinese tea culture, making it especially fascinating for tea enthusiasts.
Explore Hangzhou’s Silk Culture
Hangzhou is known as the “Silk Capital,” and visiting the Silk Museum or participating in silk-making workshops is a unique cultural experience. You can learn about the history of silk production and its significance in Chinese culture, and even purchase exquisite silk products as souvenirs.
Join Traditional Handicraft Workshops
In Hangzhou, you can participate in traditional handicraft workshops such as silk embroidery, paper-cutting, and pottery-making. These activities allow you to experience the charm of Chinese craftsmanship firsthand, and you can take home a handmade souvenir as a reminder of your trip.
Night Tour of the Grand Canal
Hangzhou is the starting point of the Grand Canal, the longest man-made waterway in the world. Taking a night tour along the canal offers a different perspective of the city. The historic buildings and lights along the canal give you a sense of Hangzhou’s ancient cultural heritage.
brilliant cuisine
In the eyes of many Chinese people, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, is considered a “food desert,” with very few delicious local dishes. West Lake Vinegar Fish, in particular, is often regarded as an unpleasant dish and even labeled as “dark cuisine.” However, Hangzhou cuisine emphasizes the enjoyment of the “natural taste of ingredients” rather than seeking diversity or bold flavors in its food. For those who appreciate delicate and light flavors, it may be enjoyable. Moreover, Hangzhou lacks the diversity and street food culture seen in other famous Chinese food cities like Guangzhou and Chengdu. The street food in Hangzhou is relatively limited. While Hangzhou does have local specialties like scallion pancakes, Pian’er Chuan noodles, and braised duck, the variety and quantity of these snacks fall far short when compared to other culinary cities.
Dongpo Pork
Dongpo Pork is a beloved traditional dish named after the famous Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo. The pork is slow-cooked until tender and soft, with a rich red color and a savory, aromatic flavor. It pairs perfectly with a bowl of white rice and is a comforting, delicious dish.
Longjing Shrimp
Longjing Shrimp is a distinctive Hangzhou dish, featuring local Longjing tea and tender shrimp. The delicate fragrance of the tea blends harmoniously with the sweetness of the shrimp, offering a fresh and unique flavor. It’s a must-try dish that represents the fusion of Hangzhou’s culinary tradition and tea culture.
Beggar’s Chicken
Beggar’s Chicken is a traditional Hangzhou dish where a whole chicken is stuffed with herbs and spices, then wrapped in lotus leaves and slowly roasted. The result is tender, flavorful chicken with a unique aroma from the lotus leaves. The dish is rich in taste and has a delightful texture.
Pian’er Chuan
Pian’er Chuan is a traditional noodle dish from Hangzhou. The noodles are thin and served in a light, clear broth, usually accompanied by ingredients like fresh meat, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish, with a mild taste that makes it a local favorite.
Hangzhou Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)
Hangzhou’s Xiaolongbao is similar to Shanghai’s but features delicate, thin skin and rich, savory soup inside. The dumplings are filled with tasty pork filling, and when bitten, the hot soup bursts out, offering a rich, juicy experience.
Clear Broth Crawfish
Crawfish is a popular summer dish in Hangzhou, and the clear broth version is a lighter preparation. The crawfish is tender and sweet, and the broth is light and refreshing, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle flavor.
Glutinous Rice Balls (Nuo Mi Tuan)
Hangzhou’s glutinous rice balls are a traditional sweet treat made from glutinous rice flour, with various fillings like red bean paste and sesame. The outer skin is soft and chewy, while the fillings are sweet and aromatic, making it a classic snack in the region.
Hangzhou Braised Duck (Huangjiu Duck)
Hangzhou Braised Duck is a traditional dish in which duck is slowly braised in a special sauce made with local yellow wine (huangjiu). The meat is tender and flavorful, with a deep, rich sauce that imparts a unique taste to the dish.
West Lake Water Shield Soup
West Lake Water Shield Soup is a traditional soup made with fresh water shield (a type of aquatic plant) and simple ingredients. The soup has a delicate, sweet taste, and the water shield itself has a unique texture. It’s a refreshing and nutritious dish, perfect for those looking for a light yet satisfying meal.
