Hangzhou

Hangzhou is located in eastern China, in Zhejiang Province, about 180 km southwest of Shanghai. Considered one of the country's most beautiful cities, it is famous for West Lake, a landscape of temples, pagodas, bridges and gardens that has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Former capital of the Southern Song Dynasty, Hangzhou combines history, nature and a tranquil atmosphere that contrasts with the pace of China's great metropolises.

What to see?

West Lake
The heart of the city and one of China's most famous landscapes. Its shores are dotted with pagodas, temples, gardens and traditional bridges. Walking or boating around it is an essential experience.

Lingyin Temple
One of China's oldest and most important Buddhist temples, set in a natural environment surrounded by mountains and forests. It stands out for its impressive statues and Buddhist sculptures carved into the rock of the nearby hills.

Leifeng Pagoda
An elegant reconstructed pagoda offering one of the best views of West Lake, especially at sunset. It is linked to a famous Chinese legend, the story of the White Snake.

Recommended experiences

Walking or cycling around West Lake
One of the best ways to enjoy Hangzhou is walking or cycling along the paths surrounding the lake, passing historic bridges, gardens and pagodas.

Boating on West Lake
Sailing across its calm waters lets you contemplate the landscape from a different perspective and understand why this place has inspired artists for centuries.

Visiting a Longjing tea plantation
In the hills near the city you can walk among tea fields, learn about the production process and taste one of China's most famous green teas.

Culture & fun facts

Former imperial capital
Hangzhou was the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty between the 12th and 13th centuries, when it became one of the world's largest and most prosperous cities.

"Paradise on Earth"
A famous Chinese saying goes: "In heaven there is paradise, on earth there are Suzhou and Hangzhou", reflecting the city's natural beauty and historical prestige.

The traveller Marco Polo
The Venetian explorer Marco Polo described Hangzhou as "the most beautiful and magnificent city in the world" during his 13th-century visit.

Birthplace of Longjing tea
Hangzhou is famous for Longjing (Dragon Well) green tea, considered one of China's most prestigious teas and a symbol of the country's tea culture.

Local cuisine

Hangzhou's cuisine, part of Zhejiang Province gastronomy, is characterised by delicate flavours, fresh ingredients and elegant preparations. Among its best-known dishes is Dongpo Rou, pork belly slowly cooked in a slightly sweet soy sauce giving it a very tender texture. Another speciality is West Lake fish in vinegar, prepared with fresh fish and a mild sauce with a sweet and sour touch. Also famous is beggar's chicken, cooked wrapped in leaves and clay to preserve all its aromas, as well as shrimp stir-fried with Longjing tea, a recipe that combines seafood with the prestigious local green tea.

Tips for travellers

Hangzhou is about 2 hours by high-speed train from Shanghai, making it a very popular day trip or an ideal stop on an itinerary through eastern China. To visit the city at a relaxed pace it is recommended to spend one to two days, enough time to explore West Lake, visit some temples and explore the nearby tea plantations.