Discover the Magic of Hangzhou: Top Tourist
Places and Attractions
Ever since Hangzhou has become the tourist magnet it currently is, being only an hour away from Shanghai via high-speed train, or simply catching a flight to Hangzhou, it has been greatly celebrated by visitors coming from near and far. This city of Zhejiang Province, known as Heaven on Earth, boasts relaxing lakes, green hills, ancient temples, and very lively streets.
In this blog, we will be taking you through the best Hangzhou tourist places, highlighting the top Hangzhou attractions, as well as sharing our personal favorite Hangzhou sightseeing areas. You should incorporate these Hangzhou tourist attractions in your itinerary when planning a trip to China.
Planning a Trip? Don’t Miss These Top 10 Hangzhou Tourist Attractions
1. West Lake (Xī Hú) – The Heart of Hangzhou
Not mentioning West Lake, the most iconic landmark of the city, would render any list of Hangzhou tourist attractions incomplete. This site is one of the most famous China tourist attractions, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous not just for its beauty but also for its rich poetic, artistic, and legendary associations in Chinese culture.
Whether on a small boat tour, cycling around the lake or taking a leisurely promenade along tree-shaded paths, West Lake stands as an excellent place to escape into tranquility away from the city. Scenic spots around the lake include:
- Broken Bridge – Romantically famous;
- Leifeng Pagoda – A historical pagoda with a stunning view;
- Three Pools Mirroring the Moon – Present on the one-yuan banknote;
- Su Causeway – a wonderful pathway shadowed with willows.
If you visit in spring or autumn, the charm of the lake hits a sky-high peak.
- Boat Ride Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free for walking; Boat rides-approx. ¥55-¥75 ($8-$11)
- Leifeng Pagoda Entry: ¥40 ($6). Open 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
2. Lingyin Temple – A Spiritual Retreat
One of China’s most ancient and affluent temples, the Lingyin Temple, is yet another gem in the crown of Hangzhou tourist attractions. Nestled between wooded hills, the temple is peaceful and gives an air of calm to weary tourists in search of serenity in spirit, having been in existence for over 1,600 years.
Within the precincts of the temple stand beautiful architecture, unique ancient Buddhist carvings, and tranquil courts. Make sure you check Feilai Feng (Flying Peak), which is close to the temple and is home to hundreds of Buddhist rock carvings that date as far back as the 10th century.
Nearby: Feilai Feng (Flying Peak) with stone carvings of old.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ¥45 (US$6.50) for the temple, additional ¥30 (US$4.50) for Feilai Feng.
3. Xixi National Wetland Park – Nature at Its Best
If you are in search of a hidden gem among Hangzhou tourist places, Xixi National Wetland Park is your answer. This ecological park of 1,150 hectares first national wetland park in China offers a tranquil setting filled with water channels, traditional fishing boats, and greenery.
It is an ideal place for bird-watching and boat-riding while also allowing you to learn about local lifestyles of fishing villages that still thrive within-the-park. It is a cool contrast to the busy parts of the city, serving as an excellent venue for chilling out with nature.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Entry Fee: ¥80 ($11.50) including boat ride; ¥50 ($7) for park entry only.
4. Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea Plantations
Hangzhou is known all over the world for its Longjing tea, or Dragon Well tea. A visit to the Longjing Tea Plantations provides not only the pleasure of being with the tea but also the experience of local culture and history.
You can stroll through the terraced hills, have chats with the farmers, and perhaps join in a tea-tasting session. Meijiawu Village is a must-see for lovely tea in a fairly traditional ambiance. A visit here would offer the real local experience amid some famous Hangzhou tourist places.
- Opening Hours: Open daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free to visit the plantations; tea tasting experiences may cost ¥30–¥100 ($4–$14) depending on the package
5. Hefang Street – A Walk Through Time
If you wish to taste the old world, then head straight to Hefang Street, one of the oldest and most famous Hangzhou tourist places. A very lively pedestrian street filled with traditional shops, tea houses, street-food stalls, and artisans selling craftworks like Chinese medicine, calligraphy, and handmade fans!
The street glows in the evening with lights, performances, and the smell of food wafting through the air. It is an excellent place to buy souvenirs and also partake in authentic Hangzhou cuisine like Beggar’s Chicken, Dongpo Pork, and West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy. If you’re staying away from the city center, booking a car is advisable for convenient access and flexibility while traveling around.
- Opening Hours: Shops generally stay open between 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Free
6. Qinghefang Ancient Street
Down the road from Hefang Street, other cultural sites that are worth visiting include the Qinghefang Ancient Street, which keeps the layout and ancient architecture of Hangzhou intact, with numerous old buildings and little museums.
One can discover ancient stories of Hangzhou here while sampling food and enjoying performances of Chinese opera and puppet shows. It is one of those Hangzhou tourist attractions that promote fun and give an insight into local life.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free (Some museum entries may charge around ¥10–¥20 or $1.50–$3)
7. National Silk Museum Hangzhou, China
Did you know that Hangzhou was the southern end of the ancient Silk Road? You can explore the history of silk in China in the China National Silk Museum, one of the largest textile museums in the world! The exhibits are beautifully displayed with ancient garments, weaving tools, and modern fashion.
A special place to explore if you cherish history and fashion. This is one of the more unique Hangzhou tourist places to check out.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
- Entry Fee: Free
8. Nine Creeks and Eighteen Gullies
The Nine Creeks and Eighteen Gullies path is ideal for nature lovers and trek lovers alike. The whole walk, with views of bamboo groves, tea fields, and hidden valleys, is a sight to behold. The tranquil sound of water flowing beside the path is an added experience.
Great to click photos, have a picnic, or enjoy a single moment of quietude with nature. With fewer crowds than the West Lake, it is a hidden gem among places to visit in Hangzhou.
9. Grand Canal – A Ride Through History
The Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal is the world’s longest artificial and ancient canal. This special cruise along the waterways gives one-of-a-kind glimpses of the city, drifting past ancient stone bridges, traditional homes, and riverside life.
Besides, you might find some time to visit the Grand Canal Museum or the Xiangji Temple next to the canal, which would add cultural interests to your Hangzhou sightseeing.
- Cruise Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Cruise Price: Depending on duration and package, ¥55-¥100 ($8-14).
10. Leifeng Pagoda – A Legend Reborn
Though mentioned briefly in the West Lake section, Leifeng Pagoda deserves the spotlight. The pagoda, built in 975 AD and reconstructed in 2002, allows for fantastic views of West Lake and Hangzhou city from the top.
It is also famous from the legendary love story of the White Snake, a very much liked Chinese folktale. This would be one of the most romantic Hangzhou tourist places to visit for people in love with legends and scenic beauty.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Entry Fee: ¥40 ($6)
- Bonus Tip:The view from up the pagoda is enthralling during sunset!
Conclusion
With its magnificent lakes and ancient temples, busy streets and tea hills, Hangzhou is far too China. If you are a history buff, nature lover, food critic, or just an easy traveler, something is there for everybody.
With past and present fused into one, Hangzhou remains a magnet for travelers from around the world. While planning your trip, consider opting for a China holiday package from European Travel for expert help in navigating through the city Certainly list out these beautiful Hangzhou tourist attractions, ensuring you leave no stone unturned for Hangzhou sightseeing, thereby gifting yourselves with delightful memories for these must-see Hangzhou tourist places.
