Celebrated for its ethereal natural beauty and cultural depth, Hangzhou offers a serene escape with its legendary West Lake set against a backdrop of verdant hills and ancient temples. The lake, often immortalized in classic Chinese paintings and poetry, glistens as traditional boats gently glide over its waters. Hangzhou is not just about scenic beauty; it also resonates with history through landmarks like the Six Harmonies Pagoda and the Lingyin Temple. Modernity and tradition coalesce in this city, with its bustling markets and tech-driven hubs. As travelers explore the tea plantations or the ancient streets of the Hefang Street, Hangzhou unveils itself as a timeless jewel in China’s illustrious crown.
Quick facts
– Population: Approximately 10 million (as of 2022)
– Area: 16,596 km² (roughly equivalent to more than twice the size of Luxembourg)
– anguage Spoken: Mandarin (with a regional Zhejiang dialect).
Most important spots to visit & how long to stay
– Major historical sites: Lingyin Temple, Leifeng Pagoda, and Six Harmonies Pagoda.
– Other sites/ areas to visit: West Lake, Xixi National Wetland Park, Bai Causeway, and Longjing Tea Plantations.
– Recommended duration for exploration: While Hangzhou’s main attractions can be covered in a day trip from Shanghai, those with a deep interest in its rich culture and history might consider a longer stay.
Where to stay
For luxury travelers, there are many luxury international and local hotels in Hangzhou, Amanfayun, Four Seasons at West Lake, Grand Hyatt, Shangri-La, Conrad, Luxury Collection,Relais & Chateaux Chaptel, and Relais & Chateaux Seven Villas, amongst others.
Unique and exclusive experiences
– LOAD.
Culinary Delights
– Longjing Tea (Dragon Well Tea): Hangzhou’s signature green tea, known for its delicate flavor, is often enjoyed after a visit to the Longjing tea plantations.
– West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy (Xi Hu Cu Yu): Tender fish from the West Lake, prepared in a sweet and sour sauce.
– Beggar’s Chicken: A chicken marinated with herbs and wrapped in lotus leaves, then covered in clay and baked; the diner breaks open the clay shell to reveal the tender chicken inside.
– Dongpo Pork: A braised pork belly delicacy, named after the famous Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo.
– Hangzhou-style Noodles: A simple noodle dish, often topped with various ingredients including seafood, meat, or vegetables.
Local Tips & Recommendations
– Best modes of transport within the city: Hiring a car with a driver is almost indispensable in order to visit the sites. To go from and to Shanghai, the high-speed train is a popular choice due to its speed and frequency, taking approximately 45 minutes to an hour depending on the specific train. Driving is also an option, roughly 2 to 2.5 hours.
– Weather: Hangzhou, nestled in eastern China, has a subtropical monsoon climate. Winters (December to February) are cold with temperatures fluctuating between 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F). Summers (June to August) can be hot and sticky, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 93°F). The city experiences its heaviest rainfall from June to September. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally pleasant and are recommended periods for tourism.
A few curiosities most people don’t know about the city
– Modern Business Hub: Despite its deep historical roots, Hangzhou is a modern center of business, with many international companies, including Alibaba, choosing it as their headquarters.
– Inspired Marco Polo: The Venetian explorer Marco Polo reportedly visited Hangzhou in the 13th century and described it as “the finest and most splendid city in the world.”
– Dragon Well Tea: Hangzhou is famous for its Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, one of the most prestigious green teas in China.
Final thoughts & conclusion
Hangzhou, nestled beside the serene West Lake, beckons travelers with its harmonious blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It’s not just the tales of the legendary White Snake or the poetic ambience that allure visitors, but also its longstanding position as a center of arts and culture. Modern skyscrapers might juxtapose ancient temples, but Hangzhou ensures its age-old stories and traditions are not lost. The West Lake, with its captivating vistas, embodies the spirit of the city—a beautiful interplay of the past and the present.
