Hangzhou Travel Itinerary: 5 Days of Magic & History
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No trip to Hangzhou is complete without experiencing the legendary West Lake (Xi Hu). Start your day with a leisurely walk along the Bai Causeway, where willow trees frame the shimmering water. Rent a bike or hop on an electric shuttle to explore the lake’s perimeter, stopping at iconic spots like Leifeng Pagoda for panoramic views.
After lunch at Louwailou Restaurant (famous for its West Lake vinegar fish), take a traditional wooden boat to Little Yingzhou Island, home to the picturesque Three Pools Mirroring the Moon. Later, visit Lingyin Temple, one of China’s most revered Buddhist sites, and marvel at the Feilai Feng grottoes carved into the cliffs.
Cap off the day with "Impression West Lake", a breathtaking outdoor performance directed by Zhang Yimou. The show combines lights, dance, and the natural backdrop of the lake for an unforgettable spectacle.
Head to Longjing Village (Dragon Well) to immerse yourself in Hangzhou’s tea culture. Tour a tea plantation, learn about Longjing tea (one of China’s most prized green teas), and enjoy a tasting session. Don’t miss the China National Tea Museum nearby for a deeper dive into tea history.
Explore Hefang Street, a bustling pedestrian lane lined with traditional shops selling silk, handicrafts, and snacks like stuffed glutinous rice balls (tanghulu). Pop into Hu Qing Yu Tang, a centuries-old traditional Chinese medicine pharmacy turned museum.
Take a sunset cruise along the Hangzhou Grand Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Glide past historic bridges and illuminated warehouses, then stroll through Xiaohe Straight Street, a hip artsy district with cafés and galleries.
Escape the city at Xixi Wetland Park, a serene network of waterways and marshes. Take a gondola ride, spot migratory birds, and visit the Hongyuan Villa, a preserved Qing-dynasty residence.
For a modern twist, visit the China Design Museum at the China Academy of Art, showcasing avant-garde exhibits. Nearby, the Zhejiang Art Museum features classical and contemporary Chinese works.
Witness Hangzhou’s futuristic side in Qianjiang New Town. The Lights and Shadows Show at the Qianjiang River waterfront dazzles with LED displays on skyscrapers. Dine at Mulin Restaurant for innovative Zhejiang cuisine.
Venture to Wuzhen, a postcard-perfect water town 1.5 hours from Hangzhou. Wander cobblestone alleys, cross stone bridges, and visit the Indigo Fabric Workshop. The Woodcarving Museum and Ancient Bed Museum are hidden gems.
If time allows, detour to Xitang, another charming canal town famed for its covered corridors and night views. Try zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) from a street vendor.
Head back and unwind at a tea house like Mingren Teahouse, sipping local brews with lake views.
Discover Guo’s Villa, a lesser-known lakeside garden with intricate rockeries. Animal lovers can visit Hangzhou Zoo to see the adorable red pandas and native wildlife.
Hangzhou is synonymous with silk. Hit the Zhejiang Silk Market for scarves, qipaos, and bedding. Bargain politely!
End your trip with a feast at Zhiweiguan, savoring Dongpo pork and shrimp with Longjing tea. Toast with a glass of Shaoxing wine as the sun sets over West Lake.
This itinerary blends Hangzhou’s timeless beauty with its vibrant present—perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies alike. Pack comfortable shoes, a camera, and an appetite for adventure!
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Author: Hangzhou Travel
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