Embark on a one-day journey through Hangzhou, a city where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Begin your adventure at the serene Lingyin Temple, a spiritual sanctuary nestled in the lush forests of the Xihu District. Spend an hour absorbing the tranquility and exploring the ancient architecture that has stood the test of time. Next, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Qinghefang Street, a characteristic neighborhood brimming with traditional crafts, local snacks, and a rich cultural heritage. Allocate two hours to meander through this vibrant area, ensuring you soak up the authentic Hangzhou vibe. As dusk falls, cap off your day with a captivating Qiantang River Night Tour. Glide along the waters for an hour, witnessing the city's skyline sparkle against the night sky—a perfect conclusion to your Hangzhou escapade.
Day 1: Spiritual Serenity and Cultural Charms of Hangzhou
Lingyin Temple
Begin your Hangzhou journey with a tranquil visit to the Lingyin Temple, a sanctuary of peace and spirituality nestled in the Xihu District. As the first stop of the day, allow yourself an hour to immerse in the serene ambiance and explore the ancient Buddhist temple's intricate architecture. Surrounded by lush forest and hidden caves, Lingyin Temple offers a glimpse into China's religious heritage and a moment of reflection amid the sacred statues and rock carvings.
Attraction Info
- No. 1 Fayun Lane, Lingyin Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou
- Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
- Open from 6:30am-5:30pm;Open from 6:30am-5:30pm,10:00pm-2:00am during New Year's Eve
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Qinghefang Street
After a morning of tranquility, step into the bustling historical Qinghefang Street, where the past and present of Hangzhou blend seamlessly. Spend a couple of hours wandering through this characteristic neighborhood, which is a treasure trove of traditional crafts, local snacks, and a vibrant atmosphere. The ancient architecture lining the street tells stories of bygone eras, making it a perfect spot for cultural enthusiasts to soak in the city's rich history.
Attraction Info
- Hangzhou Wushan Square, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou (Hefang Lane)
- Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
- Open 24 hours
Recommended Nearby Restaurants
Qiantang River Night Tour
Conclude your day with the enchanting Qiantang River Night Tour. As the evening unfolds, embark on a magical boat trip that offers a unique perspective of Hangzhou. The one-hour cruise along the Qiantang River allows you to witness the sparkling city lights reflecting on the water, creating a mesmerizing experience. It's the ideal way to end your day, with the gentle river breeze and the panoramic views of Hangzhou's skyline etching a lasting memory.
Attraction Info
- No. 208, Huancheng North Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou
- Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
- Open from 9:00am-7:20pm
Recommended Nearby Restaurants
Where to Stay Tonight
Top Things to Do in Hangzhou-2024
Hangzhou Songcheng Park is a prominent theme park in Hangzhou featuring the cultural characteristics of the Song Dynasty. It is located southwest of the West Lake Scenic Area, with Wuyun Mountain to its north. They have antique markets, tea houses, grocery stores, ironsmith shops, and wine shops that illustrate day-to-day life in the Song Dynasty era. You can enjoy Chinese cultural performances like puppet shows and shadow play or get your heart pumping by watching Chinese boxing. You might also encounter fully armored soldiers patrolling the street or hunting down fugitives. All these add up to give you a wonderful sense of traveling back in time. The large-scale musical “Song City: Thousand Years of Love” is a must-see in Songcheng.
West Lake is associated with Hangzhou beauty. It is a beautiful scenery belt. The famous “10 Scenes of West Lake” surround the lake. Walk along the Sudi and Baidi causeway, or row yourself to the "Three Pools Mirroring the Moon" located at the middle of the lake. It is a spot where you can enjoy a complete view of the West Lake on your boat and feel the gentle ambience of Hangzhou. You can also rent a bicycle to ride around the lake and enjoy the freedom of stopping wherever you want for a photo.
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* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.