Hangzhou Travel Packages: Unique Souvenirs to Buy

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is one of China’s most picturesque cities, known for its serene West Lake, lush tea plantations, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, bringing home a piece of Hangzhou is a must. This guide highlights the best souvenirs to buy, from traditional handicrafts to gourmet treats, ensuring your trip memories last long after you’ve left.

Traditional Hangzhou Crafts

Longjing Tea (Dragon Well Tea)

No trip to Hangzhou is complete without purchasing its world-famous Longjing tea. Grown in the hills surrounding West Lake, this green tea is celebrated for its delicate aroma and smooth flavor. Look for authentic Grade AA or Premium Longjing from local tea houses like Meijiawu Tea Village. Pro tip: Buy loose-leaf tea in airtight tins to preserve freshness.

Silk Products

Hangzhou has been a silk production hub for centuries, and its silk scarves, qipaos (cheongsams), and bedding are exquisite. Visit the China National Silk Museum or Hangzhou Silk Market for high-quality options. For a personalized touch, some shops offer custom embroidery with your name or initials.

Hand-Painted Fans

Delicate hand-painted silk fans make elegant keepsakes. Artists often depict scenes of West Lake, cherry blossoms, or traditional calligraphy. These lightweight souvenirs are perfect for gifting and can be found in Hefang Street, a historic shopping district.

Culinary Delights to Bring Home

West Lake Lotus Root Starch

A unique local ingredient, lotus root starch is used in Hangzhou desserts like Osmanthus Lotus Root Pudding. It’s gluten-free and easy to pack. Look for brands with minimal additives at supermarkets like Carrefour or specialty stores near West Lake.

Hangzhou Beggar’s Chicken Seasoning

This iconic dish, wrapped in lotus leaves and clay, is a must-try. While you can’t bring the whole chicken home, pre-mixed spice packets allow you to recreate the flavor. Find them in food markets or airport duty-free shops.

Sweet Osmanthus Candy

Made from fragrant osmanthus flowers, these golden-hued candies are a sweet reminder of Hangzhou’s gardens. They pair wonderfully with tea and are available in charming gift boxes at Hefang Street confectioneries.

Artistic & Cultural Keepsakes

Blue-and-White Porcelain

Hangzhou’s celadon pottery, a type of blue-green glaze porcelain, is a refined souvenir. Small items like tea sets, vases, or jewelry boxes are both decorative and functional. For authenticity, shop at official kiln outlets or museum gift shops.

Bamboo Carvings

Intricately carved bamboo bookmarks, figurines, or brush holders showcase Zhejiang’s craftsmanship. These eco-friendly pieces are often engraved with poetic verses or landscapes. Xueyuan Road’s artisan stalls are a great place to browse.

West Lake Themed Calligraphy

For art lovers, scrolls featuring classical Chinese poetry about West Lake make meaningful wall decor. Seek out local calligraphers in Wushan Square who can personalize your purchase.

Modern & Quirky Finds

Hangzhou-Themed Postcards & Stamps

Collectors will adore limited-edition postcards showcasing West Lake’s "Ten Scenes." Pair them with commemorative stamps from the Hangzhou Postal Museum for a philatelic treasure.

Tech-Inspired Souvenirs

As a tech hub (home to Alibaba), Hangzhou offers fun gadgets like USB drives shaped like pagodas or phone cases with traditional motifs. Check out InTime Department Store’s electronics section.

Tea-Infused Skincare

For a spa-like souvenir, Longjing tea-infused face masks or soaps blend tradition with self-care. Brands like Teaology sell these at malls like Hangzhou Tower.

Where to Shop: Top Souvenir Spots

Hefang Street (Qinghefang Ancient Street)

This pedestrian street is a one-stop-shop for everything from tea to trinkets. Don’t miss:
- Wangxingji Fan Shop (150-year-old fan store)
- Zhang Xiaoquan Scissors (legendary craftsmanship)

West Lake Scenic Area

Lakeside kiosks sell miniature paintings, silk bookmarks, and instant Longjing tea packets—ideal for last-minute buys.

Hangzhou International Airport

If you’re short on time, the airport’s duty-free zone stocks curated gift sets, including tea and silk.

Insider Tips for Souvenir Shopping

• Bargain politely: Markets like Silk Street welcome haggling, but fixed-price stores (e.g., museums) don’t.
• Check export rules: Some food items may require customs declarations.
• Pack carefully: Wrap fragile items in clothing or bubble wrap.

Hangzhou’s souvenirs are more than mementos—they’re tangible stories of its history, nature, and innovation. Whether you choose a fragrant box of tea or a handcrafted fan, each item carries the soul of this enchanting city.