How to Spend 5 Perfect Days in Hangzhou, China

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is often described as paradise on earth. With its serene West Lake, ancient temples, lush tea plantations, and vibrant urban life, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. This itinerary is designed to help you experience the very best of Hangzhou in five unforgettable days, balancing iconic sights with hidden gems, culinary adventures, and moments of pure relaxation.

Day 1: Arrival and the Enchantment of West Lake

Arrive at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) or Hangzhou East Railway Station. Check into your accommodation. For an authentic experience, consider a boutique hotel in the historic Hefang Street area or a luxury resort with West Lake views.

Afternoon: A Stroll Around West Lake

Begin your Hangzhou journey at the heart of it all: West Lake (Xi Hu). A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the lake is not just a body of water but a masterpiece of landscape design. Start at Lakeside Park and walk along the Su Causeway, a beautiful dyke built by the famous poet Su Dongpo. The view of willow trees dipping into the water and distant rolling hills is the quintessential Hangzhou postcard moment. Rent a small boat for a peaceful ride on the lake, gliding towards the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, a fascinating scene that graces the back of the Chinese one-yuan note.

Evening: Dinner at Grandma's Kitchen

For your first dinner, you cannot go wrong with Wai Po Jia (Grandma's Kitchen). This immensely popular restaurant chain serves delicious and affordable Hangzhou-style dishes. Must-try items include Dongpo Pork (braised pork belly), Beggar's Chicken (a whole chicken baked in clay), and West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy. The lively atmosphere is a perfect introduction to the local dining culture.

Day 2: Spiritual Serenity and a Historic Street

Morning: Lingyin Temple and Feilai Feng Grottoes

After breakfast, take a short taxi ride to one of China's most important Zen Buddhist temples, Lingyin Temple (Temple of the Soul's Retreat). The journey begins before you even enter the main temple hall. Walk through the Feilai Feng grottoes, a hillside etched with hundreds of ancient Buddhist rock carvings dating back to the 10th century. The intricate details and spiritual significance of these sculptures are awe-inspiring. Then, explore the grand temple complex itself, with its magnificent halls, giant statues, and the serene presence of monks and worshippers.

Afternoon: Exploring Hefang Street

Head back to the city center to wander down Hefang Street, a restored pedestrian street that recreates the atmosphere of the old Southern Song Dynasty. It's a fantastic place for souvenir shopping. Watch traditional craftsmen at work, creating everything from scissors and silk fans to intricate dough figurines. Don't miss the chance to visit the famous Hu Qing Yu Tang Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum, an ancient pharmacy that is still in operation.

Evening: Impression West Lake Show

As dusk falls, prepare for a spectacular cultural experience. Directed by the renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, the "Impression West Lake" is a breathtaking open-air show performed on the water of the lake itself. Using the natural landscape as its backdrop, the show combines lights, music, dance, and advanced technology to tell ancient local folktales. It's a mesmerizing performance that shouldn't be missed. Book your tickets well in advance.

Day 3: The World of Longjing Tea and a Hilltop View

Morning: Meijiawu Tea Village

No trip to Hangzhou is complete without delving into its tea culture. The city is the home of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, one of China's most famous green teas. Skip the more touristy Longjing village and head to Meijiawu Tea Village, nestled in the hills surrounding West Lake. Here, you can walk through the stunning, terraced tea plantations, learn about the process of tea picking and roasting from local farmers, and most importantly, sit down for a fresh cup of Longjing tea. The experience of sipping tea while overlooking the fields it was grown in is incredibly peaceful.

Afternoon: Lunch in the Village and Hiking up to Peak Flown From Afar

Enjoy a simple but delicious farmhouse lunch in Meijiawu. Many families operate small restaurants serving local specialties like tea-infused dishes, bamboo shoots, and free-range chicken. After lunch, work off the meal with a hike or a short cab ride to Peak Flown From Afar (Fei Lai Feng). While you saw the grottoes at its base yesterday, climbing the hill offers a different perspective and stunning panoramic views of the entire West Lake area.

Evening: Relaxation and Nightlife in Nanshan Road

Return to the city and experience the more modern side of Hangzhou. Nanshan Road, located just south of West Lake, transforms as the sun sets. The area is packed with trendy boutiques, art galleries, cozy cafes, and vibrant bars. It's a popular gathering spot for artists and young locals. Find a quiet bar for a cocktail or simply enjoy a leisurely walk amidst the buzz.

Day 4: Water Towns and Urban Wonders

Morning: A Trip to Wuzhen Water Town

Dedicate today to a half-day trip to one of the ancient water towns near Hangzhou. Wuzhen is approximately an hour's drive away and is impeccably preserved. This "Venice of the East" is a network of canals, ancient stone bridges, and Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture. Stroll along the cobbled streets, watch traditional performances, visit the indigo-dye workshop, and take a boat ride through the tranquil canals. It’s a fascinating glimpse into life in ancient Jiangnan (south of the Yangtze River).

Afternoon: Shopping on Wulin Road

Return to Hangzhou in the afternoon. If you're in the mood for some modern retail therapy, head to the Wulin Road commercial area. It's one of the city's busiest shopping districts, featuring large department stores, international luxury brands, and the massive Intime Shopping Mall. For a more tech-focused experience, visit the Digital City to see the latest gadgets.

Evening: A Culinary Adventure at Zhang Sheng Ji

For a change of pace, try another Hangzhou classic: Zhang Sheng Ji. This restaurant is famous for one thing – its incredibly tender and flavorful drunken chicken, marinated in Shaoxing wine. It's a simple dish executed to perfection. Pair it with some local vegetables and a light soup for a satisfying meal.

Day 5: Museums, Wetlands, and Last-Minute Souvenirs

Morning: China National Silk Museum

Hangzhou has been a center of silk production for over a millennium. The China National Silk Museum, located near West Lake, is the world's largest dedicated silk museum and is incredibly well-curated and free to enter. Trace the history of the Silk Road, see stunning ancient garments, and even watch live demonstrations of silk weaving and dyeing. It's both educational and visually stunning.

Afternoon: Xixi National Wetland Park

Spend your final afternoon immersed in nature at Xixi National Wetland Park, an urban wetland park characterized by six main waterways, ponds, and mulberry trees. It's a beautiful and ecological contrast to the cultural sites. Explore the park by electric boat or a traditional hand-rowed sampan, drifting through quiet waterways, past芦苇 (reed) marshes and ancient persimmon trees. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and a peaceful escape from the city bustle.

Evening: Final Taste and Farewell

For your farewell dinner, perhaps revisit your favorite restaurant or be adventurous and try a hot pot place. Sichuan-style hot pot is immensely popular all over China. Choose your broth (spicy or mild), select an array of meats, vegetables, and tofu, and cook them right at your table. It’s a fun, interactive, and delicious dining experience. After dinner, take one last, slow walk around the illuminated West Lake, reflecting on five perfect days in one of China's most beautiful cities.