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Hangzhou's beauty lies not only in the Ten Scenic Spots of West Lake, which embody the charm of the Jiangnan region, but also in its rich cultural landscape. Famous sights such as Su Causeway in Spring Dawn, Autumn Moon over Calm Lake, Lingyin Temple, and Liuhe Pagoda are renowned. Since ancient times, the saying "Heaven above, Suzhou and Hangzhou below" has been coined. Hangzhou, a land of fish and rice, a capital of silk, and a land of cultural relics, all evokes its aesthetic image. Historical figures and scholars have left behind a wealth of historical relics, poetry, calligraphy, and paintings in Hangzhou. It can be said that every Hangzhou attraction is filled with stories and poems.
Hangzhou, known since ancient times as a "paradise on earth," boasts mountains, springs, lakes, bridges, pagodas, and temples, and its scenery has gradually diversified over time. Along the shores of West Lake, the boundary between city and park blurs, with lush vegetation blending seamlessly with a variety of small shops. This is the fascinating aspect of Hangzhou: surrounded by nature's greenery, yet still feeling aloof from the city's vastness.
September-November : The weather is clear and crisp, and the sweet fragrance of osmanthus flowers fills the mountains. The Mid-Autumn Festival is particularly attractive: during the day, you can watch the Qiantang River tide and at night, you can enjoy a boat tour and admire the moon.
March to May: The spring breeze is gentle and the spring water is intoxicating, making it the perfect time to stroll along the Su Causeway and enjoy the flowers.
December to February: In the severe winter, wintersweets are in full bloom. The three must-see places for viewing plum blossoms are Gushan, Lingfeng and Chaoshan. The "Broken Bridge with Snow", one of the ten scenic spots of West Lake, is also at its most moving at this time.
West Lake
West Lake is dotted with the famous Ten Scenic Spots, encompassing one mountain, two pagodas, three islands, three embankments, and five lakes. The natural and cultural elements complement each other in a breathtakingly beautiful display. The Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, featured on the back of the one-yuan RMB banknote, also reflects West Lake's special status among China's scenic spots. You can explore West Lake on foot, by boat, by electric car, by car, or by bicycle. Electric cars are the most convenient and energy-saving, stopping at your own convenience and circling the lake.
Xixi Wetland
Renowned for its "curving stream and wispy smoke," Xixi Wetland was once known as one of the "Three Wests of Hangzhou," along with West Lake and Xiling. Located west of the city center, Xixi National Wetland Park boasts a tranquil environment and a crisscrossing network of waterways. It is a rare natural wetland within the city and is known as the "Kidney of Hangzhou." Xixi Wetland is divided into two zones: the East Zone encompasses Phases I and II, while the West Zone comprises Phase III's Hongyuan Scenic Area.
Songcheng
Songcheng is a hub of China's intangible cultural heritage. High-tech experiences like the living Along the River During the Qingming Festival, the haunted house from "Liao Zhai," and the listening room at the Human Skin Inn offer endless surprises. Twenty renowned performances within the park, including "Wang Yuanwai's House Throwing the Embroidered Ball," "Time Travel Flash Mob Show," and "Feng Yue Mei Ren," offer visitors a unique experience.
Recommended travel time: 3-5 days
Hangzhou has a history of more than 2,000 years and was once the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty. It has long been celebrated as one of China’s most beautiful cities, famously described by Marco Polo as "the finest and most splendid city in the world." Its West Lake is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizing harmony between humans and nature, and the city played an important role in the development of tea, silk, and Buddhist culture.
For West Lake itself, no booking is needed. For popular attractions such as Lingyin Temple or Leifeng Pagoda, tickets can be purchased on the spot. During national holidays and festivals, booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended.
West Lake and most outdoor sites are open year-round. Museums and temples may close on Mondays or during special maintenance days. Major attractions remain open during national holidays but are crowded.
Yes. Guided tours are available in English, Mandarin, and sometimes Japanese. Audio guides are available at major attractions in multiple languages including English, Korean, and French.
A popular route: Start at Broken Bridge → Su Causeway → take a boat to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon → visit Leifeng Pagoda → walk or cycle around the lake → evening stroll on Hefang Street.
West Lake is free, so re-entry is unlimited. For ticketed attractions, most tickets are single-entry only unless otherwise noted.
Yes. West Lake has evening music and fountain shows near Yue Lake Square. Some attractions offer night boat rides. Light shows and cultural performances are seasonal.
Public toilets, tea houses, rest areas, snack stalls, and souvenir shops are widely available around West Lake and in major attractions.
Yes. Many areas of West Lake and main attractions have ramps, electric shuttles, and resting spots for convenience.
Yes. Baby strollers are allowed. Wheelchairs can be rented at some attractions like West Lake visitor centers.
Yes, available at Lingyin Temple, Leifeng Pagoda, and some metro stations near West Lake.
Yes, many public areas around West Lake and major attractions provide free city Wi-Fi, though speed may vary.
Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely used. International visitors may need cash at smaller shops, though credit cards are accepted at major hotels and attractions.
Yes, ATMs are widely available around the West Lake area, metro stations, and shopping streets.
Yes, modest clothing is advised in temples. Avoid touching statues, relics, or tea plants without permission. Public displays of affection are uncommon in traditional areas.
The Legend of the White Snake, one of China’s most famous love stories, is set around West Lake and Leifeng Pagoda. The Broken Bridge is said to be where the lovers met.
Hangzhou represents harmony between natural landscapes and human culture. It is a center of tea culture, silk production, Buddhist heritage, and traditional Chinese aesthetics, all centered around West Lake.
Hangzhou is generally safe. Petty theft may occur in crowded tourist areas like Hefang Street. Avoid unlicensed taxis and overpriced tea shops near West Lake.
Yes, first aid services are available at large attractions. Hospitals and clinics are close to downtown Hangzhou. Emergency number: 120 for ambulance, 110 for police.
Yes. West Lake is safe at night, especially for evening walks and light shows. Off-season visits are peaceful and safe, though some services may be limited in winter.
