How to Plan a 1 to 3 Days' Tour to Hangzhou

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Known for the iconic West Lake, surrounded by lush hills and historic temples, Hangzhou offers a perfect blend of scenic landscapes and vibrant urban life. A trip of 1 to 3 days can cover most of the must-see attractions in Hangzhou, allowing you to tailor your itinerary according to your interests.

Here, we provide ideas for planning a day trip to Hangzhou. You can combine these daily itineraries to create your own 2- or 3-day plan. We also offer suggested itineraries for 1 to 3 days for your reference.

How to Plan a Day Trip to Hangzhou

If you have 1 day in Hangzhou, we suggest focusing on West Lake, the city's most famous landmark.

Morning: West Lake

Start your day with a visit to West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its picturesque scenery, the lake is dotted with pagodas, temples, and lush gardens. If you can rise early, you'll have the chance to witness a stunning sunrise over the lake, a classic and iconic view.

If you miss the sunrise, don't worry! You can still enjoy the beauty of the lake by walking along its shores or taking a relaxing boat cruise to soak in the tranquil surroundings.

Afternoon: Meijiawu Tea Plantation

In the afternoon, head to the Meijiawu Tea Plantation, one of the most important producers of Dragon Well Tea (Longjing Tea). Here, you can explore the sprawling tea fields, try your hand at picking tea leaves, and learn about the tea processing methods. Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea session, sipping freshly brewed Longjing tea while taking in the serene landscape.

Evening: Impression West Lake

Finish your day with the live performance of Impression West Lake, directed by Zhang Yimou, who also directed the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games opening ceremony. This outdoor show beautifully combines music, dance, and stunning visuals set against the backdrop of West Lake.

If you are traveling with us, you will enjoy a flexible itinerary. For example, you can visit Meijiawu in the morning and relish a leisurely exploration of West Lake in the afternoon.

How to Plan a 2-Day Trip to Hangzhou

If you have 2 days in Hangzhou, you can extend your West Lake experience by visiting Leifeng Pagoda and Lingyin Temple.

Day 2: Leifeng Pagoda and Lingyin Temple

Begin your second day at Leifeng Pagoda, where you can enjoy panoramic views of West Lake from above. This historic pagoda, built in 975 AD, is a beautiful architectural marvel surrounded by lovely gardens.

Next, visit Lingyin Temple, one of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in China. Here, you can admire exquisite Buddhist statues and serene landscapes, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

If you have a passion for Chinese history and culture, consider visiting one or two museums today. We recommend the China National Tea Museum, the China National Silk Museum, or the Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum. Please contact us to let us know your interests, and we'll help arrange your tour.

For nature lovers, a visit to Xixi National Wetland Park is also a fantastic option, where you can explore unique ecosystems and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.

How to Plan a 3-Day Trip to Hangzhou

If you have 3 days, you can explore 1 or 2 nearby water towns:

Water Towns Near Hangzhou

• Wuzhen: Famous for its well-preserved ancient architecture and beautiful waterways, Wuzhen offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life.
• Xitang: Known for its picturesque canals and charming bridges, Xitang is perfect for leisurely boat rides and exploring ancient residences.
• Zhouzhuang: This classic water town features stunning waterways, ancient houses, and a rich history of silk production.
• Tongli: With its beautiful gardens and canals, Tongli is an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat.

Depending on the water town you choose, you can enjoy boat rides through scenic canals, explore ancient buildings, and visit local workshops and museums.

Alternatively, consider extending your trip to the nearby city of Suzhou, which is about a 2-hour drive away. You can leave early in the morning and return in the evening. In Suzhou, visit classical gardens like the Humble Administrator's Garden, Lingering Garden, and Master-of-Nets Garden. Other attractions include Tiger Hill, Pingjiang Road, and the Suzhou Museum.

Other Attractions in Hangzhou

If you have already visited the most popular attractions, here are additional sites to enhance your Hangzhou experience:

• Alibaba Headquarters: Discover how Jack Ma founded Alibaba and learn about the company's impact on Hangzhou and the country. This visit is especially suggested for business enthusiasts.
• Jinghang Grand Canal Cruise: Experience the charm of the ancient Grand Canal, which has played a vital role in Chinese trade and transport for centuries.
• Six Harmonies Pagoda: This ancient pagoda offers stunning views of the Qiantang River and is a remarkable example of ancient Chinese architecture.
• Qinghefang Ancient Street: Stroll along this historic street filled with traditional shops, tea houses, and street food vendors, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a taste of local culture.

With these flexible options, you can create a memorable itinerary that suits your interests and allows you to fully experience the beauty and culture of Hangzhou.