One-Day Tour - Hangzhou

Private tour in Hangzhou

Tour Price : $650 Duration : 13-15 hours Languages: English, Chinese Discount: 20% discount if only one person

One-Day Tour – Hangzhou Highlights

8:00 – Departure from Shanghai
Begin your journey to Hangzhou, a city known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and poetic landscapes.

11:30–13:30 – Lingyin Temple
Visit one of China’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temples. Surrounded by lush hills and ancient grottos, Lingyin Temple is famed for its serene atmosphere and intricate stone carvings, including the “Flying Peak” statues.

14:00–15:00 – West Lake: Su Causeway
Stroll along Su Causeway, a peaceful path stretching across West Lake. Willow trees, arched bridges, and tranquil waters make this one of the most scenic spots in the city.

15:00–16:00 – West Lake: Gushan (Solitary Hill)
Explore Solitary Hill, the largest island in West Lake. This area combines natural charm with cultural landmarks, including pavilions, teahouses, and beautiful viewpoints over the lake.

16:00–17:00 – West Lake Music Fountain
Enjoy a musical fountain show on the shores of West Lake. With lights and classical Chinese music, it’s a relaxing and elegant way to end your visit to the lake.

17:30–18:30 – Dinner: Hangzhou Cuisine
Dine at a local restaurant and savor authentic Hangzhou dishes. Delicate flavors, fresh ingredients, and beautiful presentation are hallmarks of the city’s cuisine.

20:00 – Return Journey to Shanghai
After a fulfilling day, head back to Shanghai, taking with you the calm and charm of Hangzhou.

About Hangzhou

Hangzhou is the capital of Zhejiang Province and a major city in the Yangtze River Delta. Located along the Qiantang River and close to Shanghai, it enjoys a mix of natural beauty and modern development.

With over 2,200 years of history, Hangzhou was once the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty. Today, it remains a center of culture, art, and commerce in China.

Top Tourist Attractions

• West Lake (西湖)
  West Lake is the most famous attraction in Hangzhou and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lake is surrounded by weeping willows, traditional pavilions, and scenic walking paths.
• Su Causeway and Bai Causeway
  These beautiful paths stretch across the lake and are lined with flowering trees. Ideal for biking or walking, they offer some of the best lake views in the city.
• Tip: For a peaceful experience, visit at sunrise or take a wooden boat ride to explore the lake’s islands.
• Lingyin Temple (灵隐寺)
  One of China’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples, Lingyin Temple is hidden in a forested valley. It's known for its ancient architecture and the impressive stone carvings of Feilai Feng, or “Peak Flying from Afar.”

The temple is a popular site for pilgrims and those seeking peace and reflection.

Local Cuisine and Delicacies

Hangzhou cuisine is known for its mild sweetness and refined taste, emphasizing freshness and seasonal ingredients.

• West Lake Vinegar Fish (西湖醋鱼): A classic dish made from grass carp cooked in a light sweet-and-sour sauce.
• Dongpo Pork (东坡肉): Braised pork belly, tender and rich, named after the poet Su Dongpo.
• Longjing Shrimp (龙井虾仁): Delicate shrimp stir-fried with fragrant Longjing (Dragon Well) tea leaves.

For snacks and casual bites, Xinshijie (新丰小吃) is a popular local chain offering wontons, rice cakes, and sweet soups at affordable prices.

Shopping and Modern Attractions

• Hubin Road
  A fashionable street along the lakeside with luxury boutiques, cafés, and great views of West Lake.
• Qiantang River New Town
  A rapidly developing area with cutting-edge architecture. Don't miss the "City Balcony" viewing platform or the futuristic Hangzhou Library.
• Hefang Street (河坊街)
  A pedestrian street that blends history and commerce. You’ll find tea shops, antique stalls, street food vendors, and traditional crafts – perfect for souvenirs.

 Best Time to Visit

Spring (March–May):
Cherry blossoms and peach flowers bloom around the lake, creating a postcard-perfect setting.

Autumn (September–November):
Cooler weather and the famous Qiantang River tidal bore make this a great season for sightseeing and outdoor walks.

Conclusion

Hangzhou is a city that truly embodies the spirit of classical China. With its peaceful lake, ancient temples, refined cuisine, and modern amenities, it offers a perfect mix of past and present.

Whether you’re enjoying tea under bamboo trees, exploring historic water towns, or watching the sun set over West Lake, Hangzhou promises a memorable and poetic travel experience. It’s easy to see why Marco Polo once called it "the most beautiful and magnificent city in the world."

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