Hangzhou Weekend Itinerary: History Buff Edition

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is a city where ancient history and modern vibrancy collide. For history enthusiasts, a weekend here is like stepping into a living museum. From the legendary West Lake to hidden temples and centuries-old tea traditions, this itinerary is designed to immerse you in Hangzhou’s rich past while hitting all the must-see spots.

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Ancient Hangzhou

Morning: West Lake and Its Timeless Legends

Start your day at West Lake (Xi Hu), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the soul of Hangzhou. Rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll along the Bai Causeway, named after the Tang Dynasty poet Bai Juyi. Don’t miss the Leifeng Pagoda, a reconstruction of the original 10th-century tower with panoramic views of the lake.

For a deeper dive into history, visit the Zhejiang Provincial Museum near the lake. Its exhibits span from Neolithic artifacts to Ming and Qing Dynasty treasures, offering a crash course in the region’s past.

Afternoon: Lingyin Temple and Feilai Feng Grottoes

A short taxi ride from West Lake brings you to Lingyin Temple (Temple of the Soul’s Retreat), one of China’s most significant Buddhist temples. Founded in 328 AD, the temple complex is a masterpiece of ancient architecture. Nearby, the Feilai Feng Grottoes feature hundreds of intricate Buddhist carvings etched into limestone cliffs—some dating back to the Five Dynasties period.

Pro tip: Stop by Zhiweiguan, a vegetarian restaurant near the temple, for a taste of monastic cuisine.

Evening: Qinghefang Ancient Street

Wrap up your day at Qinghefang Ancient Street, a restored Song Dynasty-era marketplace. Here, you’ll find traditional handicrafts, calligraphy shops, and street food like dragon beard candy and stuffed glutinous rice balls (cong you bing). Pop into Hu Qing Yu Tang, a centuries-old traditional Chinese medicine pharmacy, to see how remedies were dispensed in imperial times.

Day 2: Tea, Canals, and Hidden Gems

Morning: Longjing Village and the Art of Tea

No trip to Hangzhou is complete without experiencing its tea culture. Head to Longjing Village, the birthplace of Dragon Well tea (Longjing Cha). Walk through emerald-green tea fields and visit a local farm to see traditional tea-picking and roasting methods. Many families offer tastings—don’t leave without trying the first flush (Ming Qian), the most prized harvest.

Afternoon: Grand Canal and Historic Water Towns

Next, explore the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, the world’s longest artificial waterway. Start at the Gongchen Bridge, a 17th-century stone arch bridge, then visit the China Umbrella Museum and China Knife, Scissors, and Sword Museum in the Xiaohe Straight Street area. These quirky museums showcase Hangzhou’s artisanal legacy.

For lunch, try Kaoru, a canal-side restaurant serving Hangzhou classics like Dongpo pork and West Lake vinegar fish.

Late Afternoon: Six Harmonies Pagoda and Qiantang River

Before sunset, make your way to the Six Harmonies Pagoda (Liuhe Pagoda), a 60-meter-tall Song Dynasty structure built to calm the tidal bore of the Qiantang River. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the river and the Zhejiang University campus.

If you’re visiting between August and October, check the tidal bore schedule—the Qiantang River Tidal Bore is a natural spectacle that draws crowds.

Extra Tips for History Lovers

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) for tea harvests and autumn (September-November) for pleasant weather.
• Transport: Use Didi (China’s Uber) or the metro—Hangzhou’s system is efficient and English-friendly.
• Hidden Gem: Xixi Wetland Park, a lesser-known but historically rich area with ancient water towns and serene canals.

Hangzhou’s layers of history are waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re sipping tea in Longjing or tracing Buddhist carvings at Feilai Feng, this itinerary ensures a weekend steeped in culture and timeless beauty.