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Hangzhou

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Hangzhou

Located in the eastern part of China's Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou is an enthralling mix of modern city life and natural delights. The city is renowned for embracing the iconic West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site, along with being surrounded by gentle hills and lush tea terraces. Hangzhou features four different seasons, and with humid summers and mild winters, spring or autumn makes for the best seasons to explore the city.

Hangzhou's culture, known as "Heaven on Earth" since the yesteryear, revolves around a tranquil lifestyle that focuses on the appreciation for nature, tea culture, and artistic endeavors. Seamlessly blending its rich historical heritage with its modernity, Hangzhou is also a pivotal technology hub in China, housing the e-commerce giant Alibaba.

What distinguishes Hangzhou is its distinctive mix of traditional Chinese gardens, historical temples, and modern innovations. Prominent for its Longjing (Dragon Well) green tea, silk production, and the serene West Lake, the city offers a ride in traditional wooden boats passing willow-lined shores and historic pavilions.

Food enthusiasts will find Hangzhou's distinct cuisine an absolute treat, especially the Dongpo Pork, West Lake Fish in Vinegar Sauce, and Longjing Shrimp. Make sure to take a stroll through the historic Hefang Street, where traditional medicine shops and local snack outlets foster an authentic ambiance of old China.

Get to Know Hangzhou

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Travel Tips for Hangzhou

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Hangzhou

A guide to Hangzhou's local transportation

Metro
Bus
Taxis & Rideshare
Shared Bikes

Hangzhou's modern metro network provides easy access to most of the major tourist spots and business districts. A transport card (Metro Card) can be purchased at any station for travel. The announcements and screens are available in both Chinese and English languages. The metro service operates from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM daily.

Practical Tips for Hangzhou

Things to prepare and best way to visit

How do I get from Hangzhou Airport to the city center?

You can opt for the airport shuttle bus (¥20) or the metro line 1 (¥28) for your commute. A taxi usually takes around 45 minutes and approximately costs ¥120.

Is WeChat Pay or Alipay necessary?

Indeed, mobile wallets like WeChat Pay, or Alipay are essential in Hangzhou. It's recommended to set up WeChat Pay with an international credit card before arriving, or make sure to carry enough cash.

What is the ideal time to visit West Lake?

It's best to visit the lake either early morning (before 9 AM) or during sunset for less crowding. Ideally, avoid Chinese national holidays as the place buzzes with peak tourist traffic.

How long is a sufficient stay in Hangzhou?

A 3-day stay is suggested to leisurely explore West Lake, tea plantations, and main attractions.

Is English generally spoken in Hangzhou?

English is not widely spoken apart from major tourist locales and premium hotels. Carrying a translation app and saving key phrases in English is beneficial.

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