10 Best Things to Do in Hangzhou - Attractions & Activities

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by Riley H.

February 22, 2025

AttractionsThings to DoHangzhou

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is one of China’s seven ancient capitals and was once the capital of the Song Dynasty. Steeped in history and culture, it was praised by the famous Italian traveler Marco Polo in the 13th century as “the best and most luxurious city in the world.” Hangzhou promises an unforgettable journey from the tranquil allure of West Lake to the fascinating traditions of tea-making. Here are 10 things to do in Hangzhou to enjoy this charming city.👀

West Lake (Xi Hu)

No visit to Hangzhou is complete without a stroll around West Lake. The lake's serene waters, lined with willow trees, lotus flowers, and traditional pagodas, have inspired poets, painters, and philosophers for centuries.

Folk Tales about West Lake

The legend of The Legend of the White Snake, one of China's most famous folk tales, is said to take place here. According to the story, a young man named Xu Xian falls in love with a beautiful woman who is actually a snake demon in disguise. Their love faces challenges from both human and supernatural forces, but it’s believed that West Lake’s tranquil setting helped them navigate their trials.

What you can do in West Lake

Beyond the natural beauty, West Lake has several iconic landmarks, including Broken Bridge, Leifeng Pagoda, and Su Causeway. It’s a place where you can boat, walk, or cycle, immersing yourself in both nature and the historical stories that permeate the area.

The
The West Lake
No.1 of Best things to do in Hangzhou
4.7/5: Outstanding
Free Entry
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Lingyin Temple (灵隐寺)

Lingyin Temple is one of the oldest and most famous Buddhist temples in China, with a history that dates back over 1,700 years. It’s a place steeped in tranquility and spiritual significance, nestled in the mountains just outside Hangzhou. The temple is dedicated to Vairochana Buddha, symbolizing the light of wisdom.

The Story Behind Linyin Temple

According to legend, Hui Li, a traveling monk from India, arrived in Hangzhou and discovered this idyllic valley. He meditated here and was so moved by the peaceful surroundings that he built Lingyin Temple. Over time, the temple became a spiritual hub for monks and travelers alike. Visitors can explore stunning Buddha statues, intricate carvings, and lush, green surroundings that are perfect for reflection and peace.

What to explore for Linyin Temple

The temple complex houses the famous Feilai Feng Grottoes, where ancient Buddhist sculptures are carved into the rocks. The grottoes, dating back to the 10th century, are some of the most fascinating in China, blending religion with art and nature.

Lingyin
Lingyin Temple
Open hours: 06:30-18:00 (Admission ends at:17:30)
4.7/5: Outstanding

Leifeng Tower

Leifeng Tower, standing proudly on the southern bank of West Lake, is one of Hangzhou’s most iconic landmarks. With its striking architecture and panoramic views of West Lake, it’s an essential stop for anyone visiting the city. The tower has a deep connection to The Legend of the White Snake, one of the most famous folk tales in Chinese culture.

Folk Tale of Leifeng Tower

The White Snake Legend tells the tale of Madam White Snake, a beautiful woman who is actually a snake demon. She falls in love with Xu Xian, a young scholar, and they marry, but their love faces opposition from the monk Fa Hai, who believes that a human and a demon should never be together. The legend reaches its dramatic climax at Leifeng Pagoda, where Madam White Snake is trapped by Fa Hai. It’s believed that the pagoda is where Madam White Snake was sealed away for eternity, and the tragic love story has inspired countless retellings in opera, literature, and film.

What to explore for Leifeng Tower

Leifeng Tower has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries. The most recent, in 2002, was aimed at preserving its historical charm. Visitors can climb to the top of the pagoda for stunning views of West Lake and the surrounding scenery. It’s not only a place of historical and cultural significance but also a place to reflect on the beauty of the enduring love story between Xu Xian and Madam White Snake.

Leifeng
Leifeng Tower
Night View in Hangzhou
4.5/5: Outstanding
Combo Tickets from $11.04
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Longjing Tea Fields

Hangzhou is the birthplace of Longjing tea, or Dragon Well tea, which is one of China’s most famous green teas. The tea fields on the outskirts of the city offer a beautiful view of the lush, green landscape while introducing visitors to the ancient tradition of tea cultivation.

The Story Behind Longjing Field

Longjing tea was historically reserved for the emperors, who believed in its magical healing properties. Legend has it that the tea leaves were originally discovered when a monk saw a dragon rise from the well water near the tea plants. The tea leaves supposedly gained their name from this mythical dragon encounter, symbolizing strength and purity.

How to enjoy Longjing Field

You can tour the tea fields, experience the tea-picking process, and even participate in a traditional tea ceremony. Visitors can enjoy the fresh tea straight from the source and learn about the art of tea-making in Hangzhou, a practice that has been passed down for generations.

Longjing
Longjing tea fields
there was a dragon in it
4.7/5: Outstanding
Natural scenery
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Qinghefang Ancient Street

Step back in time with a stroll down Qinghefang Ancient Street, a well-preserved historic district in Hangzhou that showcases the charm of the city’s past. The street is filled with traditional Chinese architecture, shops selling local crafts, and restaurants offering Hangzhou delicacies.

Ancient Story Behind

This area has been a trading hub since the Tang Dynasty (618–907), and over the centuries, it has remained a center of commerce, culture, and local life. It’s a place where you can still feel the echoes of ancient Hangzhou, with vendors offering everything from silk goods to porcelain, and sweet treats like beggar’s chicken—a dish wrapped in clay and baked.

What you can find in there

The street provides a rare glimpse into the old-world charm of Hangzhou, with tea houses, traditional medicine shops, and even ancient calligraphy exhibitions. It’s a lively place to see the fusion of history and modern life, with the lively atmosphere adding to the excitement of the experience.

Qing
Qing He Fang
No. 14 of Best Things to do in Hangzhou
4.6/5: Excellent
Free Entry
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The Pagoda of Six Harmonies (Liuhe Pagoda)

The Pagoda of Six Harmonies stands tall on the banks of the Qiantang River and offers a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding landscapes. Built in the 10th century during the Southern Song Dynasty, it’s one of the most iconic landmarks in Hangzhou.

History of Liuhe Pagoda

The pagoda was originally constructed to hold the power of the river, preventing destructive floods. Its six harmonies represent the unity of the Buddhist teachings, making it a symbol of spiritual and physical harmony. The pagoda’s architecture is an excellent example of ancient Chinese construction techniques, designed to withstand the fierce winds of the river.

How to explore Liuhe Pagoda

Climbing to the top of the pagoda rewards visitors with sweeping views of the river and surrounding hills. It’s also a great spot to learn about Hangzhou’s ancient architecture and to take in the peaceful ambiance.

Liuhe
Liuhe Pagoda
Historic buildings
4.7/5: Outstanding
From $2.76
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Tea Culture Experience

Tea culture in Hangzhou is much more than just a beverage—it’s an experience steeped in centuries of tradition. Visitors can delve into the art of tea-picking, tea-making, and tea-tasting, which is an essential part of the Hangzhou lifestyle.

History of Hangzhou Tea

Hangzhou’s tea culture dates back to the Tang Dynasty when the city was at the forefront of Chinese tea trade. Over time, tea became a symbol of refinement, with elite scholars and officials engaging in elaborate tea ceremonies. The production of Longjing tea in the region is particularly special due to its rich flavor and high quality.

How to enjoy Hangzhou Tea

Visitors can head to the Longjing Tea Village, where they can not only sample different kinds of tea but also understand the meticulous process of harvesting and processing tea leaves. Tea ceremonies in Hangzhou are an artistic affair, often performed with quiet grace and reverence, allowing visitors to appreciate the full history and elegance of the practice.

Hangzhou
Hangzhou Longjing Tea Culture Immersive Experience Tour
Activities & Attractions: Meijiawu (Including tickets)
5/5: Excellent
From $52.99
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Xixi National Wetland Park

A serene contrast to the bustling city life, Xixi Wetland Park is one of the few urban wetlands in China. It is a quiet and picturesque escape filled with waterways, lotus ponds, and unique wildlife.

About Xixi Wetland Park

Xixi Wetland is considered a cradle of Hangzhou's ancient history. As early as the Southern Song Dynasty, it was a place for scholars to come and retreat into nature for meditation and writing. The wetland’s waterways were once used for transportation, and it played a significant role in the city’s economic development.

What to do in Xixi Wetland Park

A boat ride through Xixi is a must-do for nature lovers, as the park is a haven for migratory birds and plant species. Visitors can also learn about the park’s role in preserving Hangzhou’s natural ecosystem and explore traditional water villages.

Xixi
Xixi National Wetland Park
No.5 of Best Things to do in Hangzhou
4.5/5: Outstanding
From $11.04
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Song Dynasty Town

Step into the Song Dynasty and experience life as it was over 1,000 years ago at Song Dynasty Town. This theme park recreates the culture, art, and architecture of the time, offering an immersive experience of ancient China.

About Song Dynasty Town

The Song Dynasty was a period of great cultural and technological advancements. Hangzhou, during this era, was China’s capital, a hub of innovation, art, and commerce. The town’s attractions include traditional performances, such as tea ceremonies, martial arts, and even cultural games from the Song period.

What to Do in Song Dynasty Town

Visitors can participate in hands-on activities like painting, pottery making, and traditional Chinese calligraphy, or simply enjoy the lively performances that bring the past to life.

Southern
Southern Song Imperial Street
Night view
4.6/5: Excellent
Free Entry
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China National Silk Museum

As one of the most important museums in China, the China National Silk Museum is dedicated to the history and artistry of Chinese silk. With Hangzhou being historically famous for its silk trade, this museum offers an in-depth look at the evolution of silk production, from ancient times through to the modern era.

About China National Silk Museum

Hangzhou has been a hub for silk production for over 2,000 years, and it was once a central part of the Silk Road trade network. The museum showcases the fascinating process of silk-making, from the raising of silkworms to the delicate weaving of fabric. You can see exquisite displays of ancient silk garments, embroidered textiles, and luxurious silk pieces that once adorned emperors and elites across Asia.

Things to do in China National Silk Museum

Visitors can learn about the history of silk, witness demonstrations of silk weaving, and explore a range of exhibits that span different dynasties. It's not only an educational experience but also a chance to discover Hangzhou's deep connection to this beautiful fabric.

China
China National Silk Museum
Focus on China 1000 years ago
4.5/5: Excellent
Free Entry
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Better to Explore Hangzhou

Since Hangzhou has many attractions to visit and many places will have their interesting stories behind. As an international visitor, it is better to book a private or group tour to go through Hangzhou. It is more convenient for visitors who don't understand Chinese and don't like to make plan themselves. Here are popular tours from Trip.com:

Book Comfortable and Affordable Hotels

There are many comfortable and affordable hotels in Hangzhou which is much cheaper comparing with larger city like Shanghai. Here are different kinds of hotels you can select from Trip.com:

Explore Top Hotels in Hangzhou

5 star

Grand Metropark Hotel

9.5/10Outstanding11868 Reviews
West Lake Lakeside Area Hangzhou|2.61km from city center
The hotel boasts an excellent location, just an 8-minute straight walk to Intime West Lake on I77, which is incredibly convenient. As an older hotel, the room decor can't compare to new five-star establishments, but it's fully equipped, tidy, and clean. Compared to other hotels in the area, it offers great value for money. This is my second stay after two years, and when I'm traveling, I prefer a familiar environment where I don't have to worry about the check-in experience. I'll definitely stay here again on my next trip to Hangzhou.
FromMYR 171

Pagoda Design Hotel Hangzhou Center West Lake

9.2/10Very Good11032 Reviews
Wulin Square/Hangzhou Center Hangzhou|1.39km from city center
Stumbled upon this hotel by chance. The family room for four was perfect for our family, and it even included a complimentary meal. Pudding, our customer service representative, assisted us throughout our two-day stay. She was always quick to respond to our requests and arranged everything wonderfully. We'll definitely choose this place again if we visit Hangzhou, as the location is also very convenient. Thanks again, Pudding!
FromMYR 262

Wyndham Grand Plaza Royale Hangzhou

9.1/10Good5517 Reviews
West Lake Lakeside Area Hangzhou|1.32km from city center
Location: About a 5-minute walk to Duanqiao (Broken Bridge), taking the exit opposite the revolving door in the lobby makes it even closer. It's super convenient for exploring West Lake. This is the absolute main highlight!!! The coffee shop in the lobby on the first floor is beautifully decorated with lots of greenery. Room: We had a twin mountain view room with a balcony, overlooking Baoshi Mountain. The room, bathroom, and balcony were all very spacious. Facilities: Quite old and worn. Even the toilet seat was faded and mottled. The wardrobe was inside the bathroom, which was a bit unusual. The TV size and distance from the bed weren't ideal; it was a bit of a strain to watch TV while relaxing in bed. Cleanliness: Generally well-maintained. Breakfast: A wide variety of options, with an excellent selection of fruits. The freshly made noodles were the best.
FromMYR 357

Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake

9.3/10Very Good4103 Reviews
West Lake Lakeside Area Hangzhou|3.23km from city center
The hotel is right by the West Lake's Yongjin Gate. You just cross an underpass and you're at West Lake, so the location is excellent value for money. It's not tiring for seniors or kids to get around. The biggest surprise was that we took the 1314 bus from Liulang Wenying to Lingyin Temple and Meijiawu, and on the way back, the 1314 dropped us off right at the hotel entrance – incredibly convenient! It's an established five-star hotel with good service, and the breakfast is plentiful. The only downside is that it's a bit far from the subway, and you have to go through two or three underpasses to get there. If you have light luggage, it's fine, but with large suitcases, it's not ideal. You can choose to take a taxi or the subway depending on your luggage.
FromMYR 371

Midtown Shangri-La, Hangzhou

9.5/10Outstanding8899 Reviews
West Lake Lakeside Area Hangzhou|1.7km from city center
The hotel is located in Kerry Centre, Gongshu District, just over 200 meters from Fengqi Road Metro Station. The second floor connects directly to the mall. West Lake Broken Bridge is a 5-10 minute walk away, and Wulin Night Market is right next door, making it suitable for both business and leisure travel. The overall style is understated and sophisticated 'old money', with a light and elegant fragrance. Although it opened in 2016, it has been well-maintained and doesn't feel old. 🏨 Room Experience • The interior design is mature and elegant, with high-quality carpets and wood finishes; the bedding is soft, ensuring a comfortable sleep. • The bathroom features a wet/dry separation, a bathtub, a washlet, and comprehensive toiletries. Some room types come with capsule coffee machines and Dyson hairdryers. • Lake View Rooms: High floors offer distant views of West Lake – it's not a direct lakeside view, but rather a city skyline with a distant West Lake backdrop; City View Rooms overlook the Wulin business district's city nightscape. • Details: Soundproofing is generally good, though occasional faint external noise may be heard during peak hours due to its downtown location; welcome amenities usually include small snacks and fruits. 🥘 Dining 1. Buffet Breakfast at The Mix Rich in variety, balancing Chinese and Western options, with a strong emphasis on Hangzhou local specialties: scallion oil noodles, small wontons, fried dough sticks, Cong Bao Hui (fried spring roll with scallion), etc. There are also cold cuts, Japanese cuisine, bread, pastries, and freshly squeezed juices. It gets crowded on weekends, and it's easy to be full after 8:30 AM, so it's recommended to dine during off-peak hours. Dishes are refilled quickly. 2. Horizon Club (Executive Lounge) Available for guests booking Horizon Club room types: all-day soft drinks and coffee, afternoon tea with desserts and fruits, and an evening happy hour with hot dishes, snacks, and alcoholic beverages, which can serve as a light dinner. It has long operating hours, and the window seats offer a great city night view experience, quiet and suitable for work or conversation.
FromMYR 578

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Business travel

Zhejiang Hotel

9.4/10Outstanding11587 Reviews
West Lake Lakeside Area Hangzhou|1.43km from city center
Every time I visit, I stay here because it's so convenient. There are plenty of food options nearby, and public transportation makes it easy to get to most of the famous attractions. You can explore Kerry Centre and grab a bite at Wulin Night Market – it's really good! Plus, with your room card, you get a discount at Tianxiangge next door. The breakfast is delicious too.
FromMYR 243

Grand Hyatt Hangzhou

9.3/10Very Good5811 Reviews
West Lake Lakeside Area Hangzhou|2.23km from city center
Located on the West Lake waterfront, you can enjoy views of West Lake and Baochu Pagoda from the room, and the lobby opens right out to the lake. At the same time, you can also experience the vibrant and lively atmosphere of Hangzhou. There are many hotels by West Lake, but my wife has a special fondness for this one. Haha.
FromMYR 896

Grand Hotel

9.5/10Outstanding7140 Reviews
West Lake Lakeside Area Hangzhou|2.84km from city center
This was our first trip to Hangzhou with our child, and we originally wanted to stay at the State Guesthouse, but due to inconvenient transportation, we chose Dahua Hotel instead. We were lucky enough to get a free room upgrade to a room with two 1.35-meter beds. We stayed in Building 3, which was renovated in 2025. The room facilities were excellent, with a full Kohler bathroom and shower setup, and premium toiletries provided. The hotel staff were all very kind, friendly, and polite. Breakfast was abundant and delicious. The only downside might be that the hotel is close to the West Lake lakeside commercial open-air bars, where singing goes on until past 11 PM. The room windows should be upgraded to triple-pane, double-glazed or more to ensure soundproofing.
FromMYR 489

Shangri-La Hangzhou

9/10Good4465 Reviews
West Lake, Lingyin Temple Scenic Area Hangzhou|2.95km from city center
I booked and paid for this hotel in advance. It's located right on Beishan Road, and traffic can get very congested during peak holiday seasons, so I recommend calling a car service ahead of time. Luckily, ride-sharing apps can drop you off directly at the hotel lobby. The hotel is conveniently next to Yue Fei Temple and very close to Quyuan Garden. Stepping out, you'll find a boat dock, and you can even take a tour bus along the Su Causeway, making it super easy to explore West Lake. I booked a garden room and arrived a little after 1 PM, only to be told the room wasn't ready yet, which led to a fifteen-minute wait. I was initially a bit annoyed, but the front desk staff was incredibly professional and immediately upgraded me to a suite, which was a very pleasant surprise. The hotel rooms are spacious and bright, with an elegant, antique-inspired decor. You're greeted by a subtle, pleasant aroma as soon as you walk in – truly Shangri-La quality. I booked a room with breakfast, and it was excellent – a wide variety of both Chinese and Western options. I especially enjoyed the fried dough sticks and potato pancakes, and there was plenty of fresh fruit. I highly recommend booking a room that includes breakfast. Overall, I was extremely satisfied with this stay and will definitely choose Shangri-La again on my next visit to Hangzhou.
FromMYR 457

Hangzhou Shili Lili Mangota Tianchi Sky Riverview Hotel

9.2/10Very Good2535 Reviews
Binjiang Area Hangzhou|8.44km from city center
The room was quite spacious and clean, and you could see the Qiantang River from the window. Of course, their main draw is the infinity pool, but I couldn't get in because it was raining. Having a drink at the poolside bar was also nice. The facilities are a bit old, and the toilet isn't smart. The breakfast was adequate, but the quality wasn't great; the frozen wontons and noodles had no texture. However, the auntie serving the noodles was very friendly and had a good memory. The fruit at the restaurant wasn't very fresh either. I hope they can improve the breakfast quality, then it would be perfect. The standard room isn't expensive, but the river view suite is quite pricey.
FromMYR 249

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Family friendly

InterContinental Hotels HANGZHOU ICC by IHG

9.4/10Outstanding7746 Reviews
Qianjiang New Town Hangzhou|6.64km from city center
The room was spacious and bright, and the hotel's interior design was grand and luxurious, making me feel like I was in a Dubai hotel. The panoramic elevator lobby offered an unobstructed view, and it was super convenient as it's right outside the subway exit! 🌹 I highly recommend the buffet; my kid ate 8 oysters in one sitting! The price was very friendly for guests.
FromMYR 480

Hangzhou MCC Hotel

9.7/10Excellent1485 Reviews
Grand Canal Business Area Hangzhou|5.9km from city center
My wife and I came here for a relaxing vacation. We're all about a healthy, slow-paced lifestyle, and that means prioritizing peace, comfort, and quality. This hotel completely met our expectations. We even got a free room upgrade! The views were stunning, and the room itself was well-designed and spacious, with all the amenities you could ask for: a microwave, fridge, and sofa. The little square table was especially thoughtful and practical – perfect for a meal or a cup of tea. I'd definitely recommend everyone give it a try.
FromMYR 166

The Nook Hotel Hangzhou - A design hotel, 20 mins to West Lake and Lingyin Temple

9.6/10Excellent1738 Reviews
Huanglong Sports Centre Hangzhou|4.21km from city center
The hotel's decor is stylish and tasteful; even after ten years, it still looks current and has a great vibe. The rooms are also quite soundproof, and the staff are all very polite. The afternoon tea was a bit monotonous and limited in variety, but breakfast was excellent – primarily Western with some Chinese options, all exquisitely prepared and delicious. The complimentary 'Pian'er Chuan' noodles for lunch were surprisingly good and beautifully presented; kudos to the talented chef! Overall, a great experience. My only suggestion would be to improve the afternoon tea; it felt a bit like an afterthought, but everything else was perfect.
FromMYR 241

Narada Resort & Spa Liangzhu

9.3/10Very Good1555 Reviews
Liangzhu Cultural Village Hangzhou|16.58km from city center
This resort hotel boasts spacious rooms and common areas, with impressively wide corridors. The natural environment is beautiful, exuding the distinct Liangzhu aesthetic. The kettle is of good quality, I looked it up – it's a Cotell, the kind you find in five-star hotels. However, the TV in the room has quite poor resolution. The breakfast buffet runs from 7:00-10:00, but the selection isn't huge, and the broccoli was practically raw. The coffee machine is a plus, offering several options. The hotel is conveniently close to Yubird Market, just a ten-minute walk. The cut stone on the shower floor has very sharp edges; it looks quite painful. There's a hot spring here, Yuelan Hot Spring, which was 69 yuan per person during the special offer – a very reasonable price, considering a bathhouse in a small town costs the same. The pillows aren't great; I wish they would switch to more comfortable sleep pillows.
FromMYR 374

West Lake State Guesthouse

9.7/10Excellent6962 Reviews
West Lake, Lingyin Temple Scenic Area Hangzhou|4.64km from city center
The hotel is nestled within the West Lake Scenic Area, boasting a unique appeal with its exceptional location and rich historical background. Our family trip truly highlighted this, and we thoroughly enjoyed the hotel's beautiful scenery, delicious food, and excellent service. A special shout-out to Ziwei Hall for thoughtfully arranging longevity noodles and a small cake for my elderly relative's birthday – a truly heartfelt gesture, highly commendable! 👍 There were a few minor issues, however. The check-in wait time on Sunday was excessively long. The facilities in Building 8 were a bit lacking, with several power outlets having poor contact. We were also plagued by mosquitoes and midges while strolling in the garden, and I suggest the hotel proactively reminds guests to take precautions upon check-in. Nevertheless, these small drawbacks don't overshadow the overall experience. I hope the hotel continues to improve and enhance its services even further.
FromMYR 736

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Swimming pool

Tuankou Zhongan Radon Hotspring Resort

8.9/10988 Reviews
Hangzhou|98.66km from city center
i have been to the hot springs three times before but I had never stayed at the hotel. This was my first time. I imagine the receptionist felt a little nervous when faced with two foreigners and maybe she felt shy. However, I found her lack of greeting, not a 你好 or 下午好， a little cold. When she did communicate with us, it was in super fast Mandarin to which I requested 请慢慢说 to no avail. She repeated just as fast twice more. I felt frustrated and then resorted to using a translation app. She called over an English-speaking Indonesian staff member. I don’t have the expectation that people will speak English to me, but I do appreciate slowing down in Mandarin and using simpler language. Hand gestures help a lot also. I wish she had told us the WiFi password, and where to access the hot springs. These are two key pieces of information a receptionist should provide when you check into a hot springs hotel. Our room had plastic flip flops to be worn to the hot springs. My pair had two left feet. When I showed the staff member on the second floor, she was helpful and got me a new pair. The hot springs were lovely, as usual. The buffet breakfast was better than the buffet dinner. The layout of the hotel leaves you walking from building to building. At first it’s confusing, but then it becomes okay.
FromMYR 389

Hangzhou Linan Tuankou Hotspring Resort Xingquan Valley

9.2/10Very Good688 Reviews
Hangzhou|98.77km from city center
We went for the infinity pool, with its mountain and water views. The location is nice, but I had to drive to find my room. Even the navigation system couldn't find it, and I had to ask the staff along the way. The only downside is that everything within the resort requires a shuttle bus, which is a long wait. When the bus arrives, you have to ask the driver if it's on your way; if it isn't, you won't be given a seat. There's no one to maintain order, and when it's crowded, there's always scrambling for a seat, sometimes even arguments. For food, we chose the à la carte Chinese restaurant, which cost over 700 yuan. The next day, we went to the pet park, but there were only a few sheep and sika deer, and a bag of carrots cost 20 yuan. Overall, the value for money isn't great, and it's worth just experiencing.
FromMYR 553

Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake

9.3/10Very Good700 Reviews
West Lake, Lingyin Temple Scenic Area Hangzhou|3.65km from city center
Taking a summer break at the Four Seasons Hangzhou at West Lake was an immersive experience of the serene beauty of a Jiangnan garden. The entire staff provided excellent service, with attentive and thoughtful reception, demonstrating quality in every detail. The unique experiences were rich and fulfilling; the Song-style tea ceremony was full of ancient charm and a wonderfully peaceful experience. The private pier and boat tour were a major highlight, allowing us to float on the lake surrounded by lotus breezes and lush greenery. The garden scenery within the hotel was exquisite. The hotel's photo shoot experience, with the garden corridors and waterside pavilions, provided natural backdrops that truly captured the essence of the place. Finding such tranquility amidst the summer hustle and bustle, balancing dining, entertainment, and photo opportunities, made for a relaxing and ideal West Lake vacation.
FromMYR 2,560

Banyan Tree Hangzhou

9.5/10Outstanding2535 Reviews
Xixi Wetland Park Area Hangzhou|6.57km from city center
Environment: The environment is really superb. I booked a water villa, and the hotel upgraded me to a deluxe water villa, which had a better location and was closer to the hotel lobby. The balcony in the room overlooked the lake, and you could feed fish and ducklings from the balcony railing. There were so many koi in the hotel, some even bigger than the ducks, which was really fun. Service: Every staff member I encountered was super nice. When my child mentioned that the snacks delivered to the room were delicious, they specially sent two extra portions that afternoon. When I checked out, they even prepared some for me to take away, which was incredibly touching! Thumbs up, thumbs up! Food: The breakfast area isn't big, but it's delicious! There's a wide variety of bread, and both Chinese and Western breakfast options are very rich. Even if you go to eat after 9 am, there's no long queue; it's quiet with fewer people. We had dinner at the Baiyun Restaurant, which was also very good, costing a little over 200 yuan per person, which was quite reasonable. Facilities: The hotel is indeed not new anymore, as it has been open for a long time, but it's very well maintained. And this Chinese style just looks ancient and elegant, which I personally really like. Rowboat: Three of us took the hotel's rowboat. It was 400 yuan for an hour to charter the boat, which is indeed a bit more expensive than outside, but the advantage is no queues, no exposure to the sun, and there wasn't a second boat on the outer lake waterway, so we had a private secret retreat all to ourselves – so comfortable!
FromMYR 1,832

Hangzhou Rose Garden Resort

9.6/10Excellent1120 Reviews
Song City/Zhuantang Town/Zhijiang Tourist Area Hangzhou|11.83km from city center
We had a wonderful stay at Rose Garden Resort. The room was spacious and comfortable, with thoughtful complimentary snacks and drinks prepared for us. It was also a lovely surprise to find a fresh rose in the room — such a beautiful detail. The breakfast was very enjoyable, especially the delicious cappuccino. The swimming pool was absolutely amazing, and the gym with its beautiful view of the pool made the whole experience even more relaxing. The resort truly makes you feel like you are on holiday in Thailand, even though you are in Hangzhou. The atmosphere, design, and facilities are outstanding. A special thank you to Xiaofan for her warm hospitality and attentive service. She made our stay even more pleasant and memorable. Rose Garden is truly one of the best resorts in Hangzhou. We highly recommend it and will definitely come back again!
FromMYR 401

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Book Cheap Flights Early

It is important to book the flights once your travel plan is confirmed. Since the more early you book, the lower price you will get. Here are cheap flights to Hangzhou from Trip.com:

Popular Flights to Hangzhou

  • One way
  • Round-trip
      • EWR01:00
        45h 55m
        2 stops
        HGH10:55
        New York - Hangzhou|Sun, Sep 20|Air Premia
        MYR 1,764
        MYR 2,297
        23% off
        Search
        23% off
        MYR 2,297
        MYR 1,764
      • JFK22:20
        58h
        3 stops
        HGH20:20
        New York - Hangzhou|Mon, Sep 28|Etihad Airways
        MYR 2,077
        MYR 2,297
        10% off
        Search
        10% off
        MYR 2,297
        MYR 2,077
      • EWR01:00
        45h 55m
        2 stops
        HGH10:55
        New York - Hangzhou|Mon, Sep 21|Air Premia
        MYR 2,090
        MYR 2,297
        9% off
        Search
        9% off
        MYR 2,297
        MYR 2,090
      • NYC13:00
        45h 55m
        Nonstop
        HGH14:00
        New York - Hangzhou|Mon, Sep 6|Normal Airline
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Better to Know before Visiting Hangzhou

✅Learn Basic Chinese Phrases

While many locals may not speak English, learning a few phrases like “你好 (nǐ hǎo)” for “Hello” and “谢谢 (xièxiè)” for “Thank you” can go a long way in building rapport.

✅Avoid Peak Traffic Hours

To avoid heavy traffic, try to avoid traveling between 8-9 AM and 5-7 PM. Opt for the metro or biking, which are more efficient during these times.

✅Stay Connected with a Local SIM Card

If you need internet access, consider buying a local SIM card or eSIM for better connectivity, especially when exploring outside tourist areas. Check the affordable eSIM options from Trip.com.

✅Respect the Environment

Help maintain the beauty of Hangzhou by disposing of trash properly and being mindful of the environment, especially around West Lake and nature spots.

✅Plan for Unpredictable Weather

Hangzhou weather can change quickly, so bring light layers, sunscreen, and an umbrella. Even in summer, evenings can get cool.

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Jeffery

Jeffery

Trip.com Blogger

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Hi, I’m Jeffery. I love visiting new cities, trying local food and finding fun, off-the-beaten-path spots. I share my real travel stories, easy itineraries and honest tips from my own trips. I hope my posts can help you plan better.

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