Welcome to Hangzhou! Nestled in China's eastern coastal region, this vibrant city is the capital of Zhejiang Province and is famous for its breathtaking West Lake and the historic Lingyin Temple. If you're a first-time visitor and feeling a bit overwhelmed about where to begin, don't worry! Kinnso has put together a handy list of the top 10 attractions that you simply can't miss. From the serene beauty of West Lake to the bustling charm of Hefang Street, we've got you covered to make your Hangzhou adventure a breeze!
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1. West Lake
West Lake, often seen as the heart and soul of Hangzhou, is a must-visit national scenic area that's often dubbed a paradise on Earth. Take a leisurely walk along the lakeside and enjoy the views of iconic spots like "Quyuan Fenghe" and the "Broken Bridge in the Snow," which are among West Lake's top ten scenic attractions. For a closer look at the picturesque scenery, consider hopping on a boat to explore the Three Ponds of West Lake. Make sure to check out Bai Causeway when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and Su Causeway for a mesmerizing sunset. The area around the lake is packed with museums and parks, offering endless opportunities for exploration.
Discover the Beauty of West Lake: Nestled in the heart of Hangzhou, this expansive freshwater lake is framed by majestic mountains on three sides, creating an idyllic and stunning landscape. It's no wonder West Lake is the crown jewel of Hangzhou's tourist attractions.
Address: West Lake Scenic Area, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province
Getting There: Hop on bus Y2 or Y3 and alight at Pinghu Qiuyue Station. From there, it's just a short stroll to reach this breathtaking site.
2. Lingyin Temple
If you find yourself in Hangzhou, a visit to the famous Lingyin Temple is a must. This historic site, established during the Eastern Jin Dynasty, is not just any temple – it’s the birthplace of the Tiantai school, one of the five major Zen sects in Chinese Buddhism.
When you explore the temple, make sure to check out the Grand Hall, the Sutra Repository, the Heavenly King Hall, and the Nine Dragon Pool. These spots are definitely the highlights of your visit. And just a short walk away, you’ll discover the Feilai Peak Grottoes. Here, you can marvel at over 470 stone carvings that date back to the Tang and Song Dynasties.
After soaking in all that history, why not relax with a cup of Lingyin tea at the Lingyin Tea House? It’s the perfect way to end your visit.
Attraction Introduction: Nestled among lush greenery, this famous Buddhist monastery in China offers a perfect blend of Chinese and Indian cultures. The entire temple is a serene retreat surrounded by nature.
Address: No. 1, Fayun Alley, Xihu District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province
How to Get There: Hop on bus lines Y1, Y2, or Y3 and get off at Lingyin Station.
3. Hefang Street
Step back in time on Hefang Street, one of Hangzhou's oldest and most charming thoroughfares. Once the royal pantry during the Southern Song Dynasty, this historic street has now blossomed into a beloved food haven. Here, you can treat your taste buds to local delights like the succulent Dongpo Pork, flavorful Longjing Shrimp, and the unique Eight-Treasure Dried Tofu. But it’s not just about the food—Hefang Street is also a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts such as silk, tea, and exquisite embroidery. As dusk falls, the street transforms into a lively night market. Be sure to bring your bargaining skills to snag some fantastic deals!
Welcome to Hefang Street, an iconic historical site in Hangzhou. Once the royal food supply and storage area during the Southern Song Dynasty, this ancient street has transformed into a bustling food haven.
Address: Hefang Street, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
Getting There: Hop on Metro Line 1 and disembark at Hefang Street Station. From there, it's just a short walk to this vibrant destination.
4. Grand Canal
Stretching an impressive 1,776 kilometers, the Grand Canal holds the title of the longest ancient canal in the world. The Hangzhou section is especially charming. Around the Gongchen Bridge, you’ll discover a beautifully preserved part of the canal, complete with an old bridge and surrounded by historic buildings and cozy bars. Hop on one of the traditional painted boats for a leisurely ride, where you can dine on delicious food while soaking in the stunning views on both sides. Don’t miss other popular spots along the canal, like Yanggong Dike and Bai Ta Park.
Attraction Introduction: The Grand Canal, spanning an impressive 1,776 kilometers, is often referred to as Hangzhou's mother river. The Hangzhou section is renowned for its stunning landscapes and enchanting night views.
Address: Shangcheng District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province
How to Get There: Hop on bus lines 504, 42a, 47, or 287 and get off at Gongchen Bridge Station
5. Xixi National Wetland Park
Just west of Hangzhou city lies the enchanting Xixi National Wetland Park, China's very first national wetland park that beautifully blends urban wetlands with agricultural and tea culture. As you wander along the charming wooden pathways, you'll be greeted by expansive lotus ponds, picturesque tea fields, and serene bamboo forests. For a hands-on experience, head to the agricultural culture area where you can dive into the world of tea cultivation in Hangzhou, trying your hand at tea picking and frying. The park's landscape transforms with the seasons; in autumn, the reeds dance like delicate snowflakes, and in winter, the plum blossoms put on a stunning show.
Discover this gem in the western suburbs of Hangzhou! This national park beautifully blends urban wetlands, tea culture, and rich agricultural traditions. It's a must-visit spot for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Address: No. 518, Tianmushan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province
Getting There: Hop on Metro Line 3 to Wenxin Road Station, then take a short walk to reach your destination.
6. West Lake Musical Fountain
Perched on the southern edge of West Lake, the West Lake Musical Fountain offers a mesmerizing nightly show that you can enjoy without spending a dime. Picture this: water jets dancing and twirling in sync with enchanting music, all illuminated by vibrant lights. It’s a visual feast as the fountain morphs into various shapes and hues, creating a magical atmosphere with the interplay of light and mist. The soundtrack is a delightful mix of classical symphonies and popular tunes, making it a hit with both tourists and locals. To get the best view, make sure to arrive early and claim a prime spot.
Attraction Introduction: Get ready to be mesmerized by the stunning light and water dance show at West Lake. This free spectacle offers a dazzling array of shapes and colors, perfectly synchronized with the music.
Address: Su Causeway, West Lake District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province
How to Get There: Hop on Metro Line 1, get off at Longxiangqiao Station, and enjoy a short walk to the show.
7. Southern Song Imperial Street
Welcome to Southern Song Imperial Street, an enchanting historic street right in the heart of Hangzhou City. Once upon a time, this street was graced by the Southern Song Emperor during his inspections. Today, it has evolved into a lively commercial pedestrian zone filled with charm and history.
As you wander down the street, you'll be greeted by an array of shops on both sides. These offer a delightful mix of snacks, cozy tea houses, and tempting pastry shops. Don't miss the chance to pick up some famous Hangzhou specialties like exquisite silk and the renowned Longjing tea. History buffs will be thrilled to discover several historical sites along the way, including an ancient mosque and the fascinating Zhang Xiaoqin Scissors Shop.
And while you're strolling, make sure to glance up and admire the beautifully crafted ancient-style buildings that add a touch of timeless elegance to this vibrant street.
Attraction Introduction: This street, which once served as the main route for emperors during the Southern Song Dynasty, has transformed into Hangzhou's busiest pedestrian shopping street.
Address: Yan'an Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province
How to Get There: Hop on Metro Line 1 and get off at Longxiangqiao Station, then take a short walk to reach your destination.
8. Liuhe Tower
Perched in the southern part of Hangzhou city, Liuhe Tower, or the Six Harmonies Pagoda, is a stunning piece of history dating back to the Southern Song Dynasty. This Buddhist marvel rises 60 meters high and boasts 13 stories, making it a standout landmark in Hangzhou. Visitors can ascend to the top for sweeping views of the city below. During festivals, the tower is lit up with vibrant lights, turning it into a dazzling spectacle that’s a must-see in Hangzhou’s nighttime scenery.
Attraction Introduction: Imagine climbing up a 13-story Buddhist pagoda that dates back to the Southern Song Dynasty. Standing tall at 60 meters, this historic structure rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Hangzhou City from its summit.
Address: Zhijie, Huajuefang, Jianggan District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province
Getting There: Hop on bus lines 51, 79, 98, 309, or 528 and get off at Huajuefang Station
9. Xiangji Temple in Hangzhou
Step into the serene Xiangji Temple in Hangzhou, a historical gem dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The temple, named after the incense burner peak that stands proudly out front, is a sight to behold with its beautifully preserved ancient architecture. Wander through the majestic Mahavira Hall, the tranquil Guanyin Pavilion, and the serene Arhat Hall. Every year, on the seventh day of the eighth lunar month, the temple hosts a grand porridge offering ceremony that draws in crowds of worshippers. While you're in the area, don't miss a visit to the nearby Longjing Village to enjoy the delicate flavor of Hangzhou's renowned Longjing tea.
Attraction Introduction: Discover a renowned ancient temple in Hangzhou, with its origins dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The temple is named after the incense burner peak that stands proudly in front of it.
Address: No. 3 Wuzhu Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province
Getting There: Hop on Metro Line 2 and get off at Longjing Village Station, then enjoy a short walk to reach the temple.
10. Qiantang River Tidal Viewing
Every year, around the 18th day of the eighth month in the lunar calendar, there's an amazing natural event at the mouth of the Qiantang River. This is when the river comes alive with roaring waters, creating a tidal wave that can reach up to two or three meters high. It's a jaw-dropping sight that draws in huge crowds of tourists eager to witness it. The prime spot to catch this spectacle is the Qiantang New Town Tidal Viewing Platform, conveniently located near the Liuhe Pagoda. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, hopping on a boat and heading out to sea lets you feel the thrill of the powerful waves crashing right against the vessel.
Attraction Overview: Every year, during the eighth month of the lunar calendar, the Qiantang River estuary comes alive with an incredible tidal phenomenon. It's a stunning display of nature's power and one of Hangzhou's must-see wonders.
Address: No. 1 Qianjiang Road, Fuchunjiang Century City, Jianggan District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province
How to Get There: Hop on Metro Line 2 and get off at Jiangjin Road Station, then enjoy a short walk to the destination.
If you're planning your first trip to Hangzhou, you're in for a treat! We've rounded up the top 10 must-see spots that you absolutely can't miss. Start with the serene beauty of West Lake and the historic Lingyin Temple. Stroll down Hefang Street and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Canal. Don't forget to explore the lush Xixi National Wetland Park and catch the mesmerizing West Lake Musical Fountain show. For a taste of local culture, wander through Nansongyu Street and visit the impressive Liuhe Pagoda. The tranquil Hangzhou Xiangji Temple and the thrilling Qiantang River Tide Viewing Area are also on the list. From stunning natural landscapes to rich historical sites, and from bustling food streets to breathtaking urban views, these attractions will give you a full taste of Hangzhou's unique charm. Make sure to jot down the addresses and transportation details for each spot, and plan ahead. Enjoy your adventure in Hangzhou!
