Hangzhou Spring Festival: Traditions and Celebrations

The Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, is the most vibrant and culturally rich celebration in China. While Beijing and Shanghai often steal the spotlight, Hangzhou—a city renowned for its poetic West Lake, ancient tea culture, and timeless charm—offers a uniquely enchanting way to experience the holiday. From dazzling lantern festivals to serene temple visits, Hangzhou’s Spring Festival traditions blend history, spirituality, and modern festivities in a way that captivates both locals and travelers.

The Heart of Hangzhou’s Spring Festival

Hangzhou’s Spring Festival is a harmonious mix of age-old customs and contemporary celebrations. The city, once the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty, carries a deep cultural legacy that shines during this festive season.

Lantern Displays at West Lake

No visit to Hangzhou during the Spring Festival is complete without witnessing the breathtaking lantern displays around West Lake. As dusk falls, the lakeside transforms into a luminous wonderland, with intricate lanterns shaped like dragons, lotus flowers, and mythical creatures reflecting on the water. The Hangzhou Lantern Festival (杭州灯会) typically runs from New Year’s Eve until the Lantern Festival (15th day of the lunar new year), drawing crowds eager to admire the artistry and snap Instagram-worthy photos.

For an immersive experience, take a night cruise on West Lake, where you can glide past illuminated pagodas and bridges while sipping hot Longjing tea—a perfect blend of tradition and relaxation.

Temple Fairs and Blessings

Hangzhou’s temples become hubs of activity during the Spring Festival, with locals and visitors alike seeking blessings for the year ahead.

Lingyin Temple: A Spiritual Retreat

One of the most revered Buddhist temples in China, Lingyin Temple (灵隐寺) hosts special ceremonies during the New Year. Devotees light incense, pray for prosperity, and listen to monks chant sutras. The temple’s serene surroundings—nestled among lush forests and ancient rock carvings—make it a peaceful escape from the city’s festive bustle.

Wenshu Temple Fair

For a livelier atmosphere, the Wenshu Temple Fair near Hefang Street offers a mix of spirituality and entertainment. Street performers, calligraphy stalls, and traditional snacks like nian gao (sticky rice cake) create a carnival-like vibe. Don’t miss the chance to buy a red lantern or a handwritten fu (福) character—a symbol of good fortune—to take home as a souvenir.

Culinary Delights: A Feast for the Senses

Hangzhou’s Spring Festival cuisine is a highlight for food lovers. The city’s Hangbang Cai (杭帮菜)—a delicate, slightly sweet culinary style—takes center stage during the holiday.

Must-Try Dishes

• Dongpo Pork (东坡肉): A melt-in-your-mouth braised pork belly dish named after the famous poet Su Dongpo.
• Longjing Shrimp (龙井虾仁): Fresh river shrimp stir-fried with Longjing tea leaves, embodying Hangzhou’s tea culture.
• Spring Festival Dumplings (饺子): Families gather to make jiaozi, often hiding coins inside for luck.

For an authentic experience, visit Louwailou (楼外楼), a historic restaurant by West Lake, or explore the bustling Guanfang Alley (官巷口), where street vendors sell steaming bowls of tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls)—a must-eat for the Lantern Festival.

Modern Celebrations: Blending Old and New

While tradition reigns supreme, Hangzhou’s Spring Festival also embraces modern twists.

Digital Red Envelopes (Hongbao 红包)

In a tech-savvy city like Hangzhou, digital hongbao sent via WeChat or Alipay have become a popular alternative to physical red envelopes. Companies like Alibaba (headquartered in Hangzhou) often run promotions, adding an element of gamification to the gifting tradition.

Light Shows at Qianjiang New Town

For a futuristic take on the holiday, head to Qianjiang New Town, where skyscrapers light up with dazzling projections of zodiac animals and festive greetings. The Qiantang River area also hosts fireworks displays, blending Hangzhou’s ancient charm with its modern skyline.

Travel Tips for Visiting Hangzhou During Spring Festival

1. Book Early: Hotels near West Lake fill up quickly. Consider staying in the Xihu District for easy access to festivities.
2. Dress Warmly: Hangzhou’s winter can be chilly, especially near the lake. Layer up for outdoor events.
3. Try Public Transport: With heavy traffic, the metro is the best way to navigate the city.
4. Respect Local Customs: Avoid sweeping or throwing out garbage on New Year’s Day—it’s believed to sweep away good luck!

Whether you’re drawn to the spiritual serenity of Lingyin Temple, the culinary adventures of Hefang Street, or the radiant glow of West Lake’s lanterns, Hangzhou’s Spring Festival is a celebration that lingers in the heart long after the holiday ends.