How to Spend 3 Perfect Days in Hangzhou

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is one of China’s most enchanting cities. Known for its serene West Lake, lush tea plantations, and rich cultural heritage, it’s a destination that blends natural beauty with timeless tradition. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, this three-day itinerary will help you experience the best of Hangzhou.

Day 1: Exploring West Lake and Its Cultural Gems

Morning: A Leisurely Stroll Around West Lake

Start your day with a walk along the iconic West Lake (Xi Hu), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lake’s shimmering waters, framed by willow trees and pagodas, are especially magical in the early morning. Don’t miss these highlights:
- Broken Bridge (Duan Qiao): Famous for its role in the Legend of the White Snake, this bridge offers stunning views.
- Bai Causeway: A scenic path lined with peach blossoms in spring.
- Leifeng Pagoda: Climb to the top for panoramic views of the lake.

Afternoon: Lingyin Temple and Feilai Feng

Head to Lingyin Temple (Temple of the Soul’s Retreat), one of China’s most significant Buddhist temples. Wander through its grand halls and admire the intricate carvings. Nearby, Feilai Feng (Peak Flown from Afar) features hundreds of ancient Buddhist rock carvings—a hidden gem for history lovers.

Evening: Impression West Lake Show

Cap off your day with the Impression West Lake, a breathtaking outdoor performance directed by Zhang Yimou. Set on the lake itself, this show combines lights, music, and dance to tell the story of Hangzhou’s legends.

Day 2: Tea Culture and Scenic Adventures

Morning: Meijiawu Tea Village

No trip to Hangzhou is complete without experiencing its famous Longjing tea (Dragon Well tea). Visit Meijiawu Tea Village, where you can:
- Tour a tea plantation and learn about the harvesting process.
- Sip freshly brewed Longjing tea in a traditional tea house.
- Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch featuring local dishes like Dongpo Pork and West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy.

Afternoon: Nine Creeks and Eighteen Gullies

For nature lovers, the Nine Creeks and Eighteen Gullies (Jiu Xi Shi Ba Jian) is a must. This tranquil hiking trail winds through bamboo forests, streams, and tea fields. The walk is moderately easy and takes about 2-3 hours, offering plenty of photo ops.

Evening: Hefang Street

Spend your evening at Hefang Street, a lively pedestrian street filled with:
- Traditional handicraft shops selling silk, fans, and calligraphy.
- Street food stalls offering stuffed glutinous rice balls (Tangyuan) and fried dumplings (Guotie).
- Cultural performances like puppet shows and folk music.

Day 3: Modern Hangzhou and Hidden Gems

Morning: China National Tea Museum

Dive deeper into tea culture at the China National Tea Museum. The exhibits cover the history of tea, brewing techniques, and global tea traditions. The surrounding gardens are perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Afternoon: Xixi Wetland Park

Escape the crowds at Xixi Wetland Park, a sprawling network of waterways, marshes, and traditional villages. Activities include:
- Boat rides through the wetlands.
- Visiting ancient water town homes and temples.
- Spotting local wildlife like egrets and kingfishers.

Evening: Qianjiang New City Lights

End your trip with a visit to Qianjiang New City, Hangzhou’s modern financial hub. As night falls, the Lights and Water Show illuminates the skyscrapers along the Qiantang River—a dazzling contrast to the city’s ancient charm.

Hangzhou is a city where every corner tells a story. Whether you’re sipping tea in a misty village or cruising past thousand-year-old temples, these three days will leave you enchanted.