Create Guide
Picture of Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China

Travel Guide for
Hangzhou

China

Humid subtropical, four seasons

Introduction

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, is a vibrant city set beside the picturesque West Lake and surrounded by lush green hills. With roots dating back over 2,000 years, Hangzhou blends ancient pagodas and temples with modern cafés, coworking spaces, and a thriving tech scene—ideal for digital nomads.

In late September, mild temperatures (around 20-28°C) and lower rainfall offer pleasant weather for lakeside walks, cycling, and exploring historic tea villages. Affordable accommodation and reliable Wi-Fi make Hangzhou both accessible and comfortable for remote work, while its dynamic local culture and tasty cuisine provide plenty to discover after hours.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleDigital nomad

Dates20-27 September 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturenightlife and entertainmentoutdoor adventuresfestivals and eventsgastronomysightseeing and tours

Not what you're looking for? Create Your Own Guide!

Picture of Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China

Key Facts

Location

East China, Zhejiang Province

Currency

Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)

Religion

Buddhism, Folk religions

Population

12,000,000

Language

Mandarin Chinese, Wu dialects

Electricity

220V, 50Hz, Type A/C/I plugs

Time zone

UTCChina Standard Time (UTC+8)

Country code

+86

Internet access

Widespread, fast, affordable broadband & 4G/5G

Climate

Humid subtropical, four seasons

See More China Facts

Language:

Chinese

  • hello

    你好 (nee how)
  • goodbye

    再见 (dzai-jyen)
  • yes

    (shir)
  • no

    不是 (boo shir)
  • how much

    这个多少钱? (juh-guh dwor-shaow chyen)
  • please

    (ching)
  • thank you

    谢谢 (shyeah-shyeah)
  • excuse me

    对不起 (dway-boo-chee)

Map

Logistics

Getting to Hangzhou is easy for digital nomads on a budget. Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport connects with major Chinese and a few international cities—budget airlines often offer good deals. High-speed trains from Shanghai, Suzhou, and other cities are fast and affordable, with frequent departures from Shanghai Hongqiao Station and typically taking under an hour.

Buses also link Hangzhou with neighboring provinces, though trains are more comfortable. Ride-sharing and public transport within the city are efficient and affordable. Around September 20-27, Hangzhou usually sees mild weather, but occasional rainfall is possible, so check forecasts and book accommodations/transport in advance due to the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Weather

Hangzhou has a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers (June–August) are hot and humid, while winters (December–February) tend to be chilly and damp. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for sightseeing and outdoor adventures like exploring West Lake or enjoying local festivals.

From September 20 to September 27, Hangzhou is usually in early autumn, characterized by comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and plenty of clear, pleasant days—perfect for night markets, cultural events, and scenic strolls. Although this period is generally stable, occasionally, remnants of typhoons can bring heavy rain, but extreme weather is rare.

Food & Drink

Hangzhou is renowned for its delicate, lightly seasoned Zhejiang cuisine. Signature dishes include West Lake Vinegar Fish, Dongpo Pork, and Longjing Shrimp, often paired with local Dragon Well (Longjing) tea. Street foods like scallion pancakes and xiaolongbao dumplings are must-tries for quick, budget-friendly bites.

For dining, locals recommend Lou Wai Lou near West Lake, Grandma’s Home (Wai Po Jia) for affordable local fare, and Zhi Wei Guan for classic snacks. Hangzhou also has cozy cafes like Maan Coffee and stylish bars in the Hubin area. Tipping isn’t customary in China; service charges are typically included in the bill.

Vegetarians will find options, but it’s best to communicate your needs clearly. Hangzhou’s culinary scene balances tradition and modernity, offering digital nomads plenty of tasty and WiFi-friendly places to work and eat.

A picture of Peking Duck

Peking Duck

Peking Duck is a famous Chinese dish featuring crispy duck skin, tender duck meat, and thin pancakes, all...

A picture of Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao is a type of steamed bun (baozi) originating from Jiangsu province. Filled with hot soup and a...

A picture of Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu is a spicy Sichuan dish made with soft tofu, minced meat, and fermented black beans, all...

A picture of Hot Pot

Hot Pot

Hot Pot is a communal dining experience involving a simmering pot of flavorful broth into which various raw...

A picture of Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Sichuan dish featuring tender chunks of chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and...

Accommodation

For digital nomads visiting Hangzhou, the areas near West Lake—such as Shangcheng and Xihu districts—offer a great mix of comfort and convenience, with easy access to cafes and coworking spaces. Notable mid-range hotels like Midtown Shangri-La, Courtyard by Marriott, and the SSAW Boutique Hotel are favorites for their reliable Wi-Fi and thoughtful amenities.

Nearby, the Binjiang and Qianjiang New Town areas also offer well-equipped hotels with business facilities, modern decor, and easy metro access. Consider booking via Agoda, Booking.com, or Trip.com for the best deals and flexible cancellation policies. September is popular for travel, so book early to secure the best rooms and rates.

Itinerary

Acclimate to Hangzhou’s pace by exploring the vibrant city center, soaking in first impressions of its cultural energy, and tasting signature local cuisine.

Stroll Along Hubin Pedestrian Street

Begin your Hangzhou journey with a leisurely stroll through Hubin Pedestrian Street, a lively city-center hotspot lined with chic boutiques, cafes, and public art. This area is perfect for soaking in Hangzhou’s modern energy while people-watching and picking up local essentials.

West Lake Sunset at Broken Bridge

Catch your first magical sunset at the famous Broken Bridge on West Lake. This iconic spot offers panoramic views across the lake, especially at dusk, and is a perfect way to take in Hangzhou’s scenic beauty right after you arrive.

Flexible Hangzhou Private Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train

Flexible Hangzhou Private Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the famous Paradise City of Hangzhou on a fully customized sightseeing day trip from Shanghai by bullet train. Accompanied by your private guide, stroll around Flower Harbor Park and take a relaxing boat on the West Lake. Visit the famous Lingyin temple; see the traditional Meijiawu tea mountain. Local lunch, round-trip bullet train tickets, a private guide, and private vehicle service are included if you book the all-inclusive package.

5.0 (218 reviews)

From $276 USD

View Details

Attractions

3.6 (109 reviews)
Shanghai Half Day Morning or Afternoon Sightseeing Tour

Shanghai Half Day Morning or Afternoon Sightseeing Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Got only half a day to explore Shanghai? Discover the 'must-see' sights such as Jade Buddha Temple, Fresh Water Pearl Gallery and Shanghai Museum on the morning tour or The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai Old Street, a silk mill and Shanghai's entertainment district on the afternoon tour. A guided sightseeing tour of Shanghai is a must for anyone visiting China's most modern city.

From $53 USD

View Details
5.0 (9 reviews)
Hangzhou Private Flexible Day Tour with West Lake Boat Cruise

Hangzhou Private Flexible Day Tour with West Lake Boat Cruise

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Enjoy this full day 8-hour private Hangzhou city sightseeing tour with a local expert guide. Spend some quality time visit the city’s top attractions inline with your own styles. Cruise around the UNESCO West Lake, one of the China’s famed natural wonders, appreciate the charming scenery along the lake. Visit the impressive stone Buddha Grottos in Fei Lai Peak, admire the Grand Lingyin Buddhist temple while visiting different sections of the area. Sample some famed green tea and freshly prepared home dish at the local tea farmer’s house while enjoying the amazing view of the green tea terrace and countryside scenery. Customizable itinerary catering to your own preferences, enjoy convenient and comfortable door to door transfer from Hangzhou hotel or Hangzhou Train Station.

From $150 USD

View Details
5.0 (21 reviews)
Half-Day Hangzhou Yunxi Bamboo Forest and Tea Plantation Experience

Half-Day Hangzhou Yunxi Bamboo Forest and Tea Plantation Experience

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Want to get away from bustle and hustle city, and be surrounded by greens and fresh air? This half-day private tour is a great way to get your body fully benefited from negative oxygen ions. Have a easy hike in beautiful Yunxi Zhujing Scenic Resort (also known by Yunqi Zhujing) , which is full of bamboo. Followed by a tea plantation experience in Meijiawu or Longjing Tea Village where you get to know the tea culture, enjoy tea tasting and local lunch. All entrance fees, private guide and private vehicle service are all inclusive.

From $130 USD

View Details
5.0 (4 reviews)
Wuzhen Classical Water Town day tour

Wuzhen Classical Water Town day tour

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

80km away from Hangzhou, there is an ancient water town called Wuzhen, with 600 years old history, most of her buildings are well preserved from 150-200 years ago, it is also one of the rare place that real local people are still living inside. You may walk through those zigzag alleys or take the rowing boat enjoying this oriental Venice. During the visit, we will show you all the attractions listed below: 1.Fortune Bay High Rod Boat Show 2.Martial Art Performance on Boat 3.Wine Distillery Workshop, the sweet wine inside is very delicious, can taste free. 4.Indigo Fabric Workshop 5. Folk Custom Museum 6. Antique Beds Museum After the tour, lunch will be arranged at an authentic local restaurant where you will try the real local water town delicacy.

From $127 USD

View Details
5.0 (8 reviews)
Hire a car with driver to Zhujiajiao Town 8 hours service

Hire a car with driver to Zhujiajiao Town 8 hours service

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Our drivers are professional and with years of experience, they are familiar with routes to your destinations and will provide you with a secure, reliable, fast and serene transfer service. Communication would never be an issue, although the drive only speak a little English, they are happy to contact our customer service hotline for you at anytime you wish to for a immediate assistance. Meanwhile We will also provide real time on line customer service via Wechat APP.

From $81 USD

View Details
5.0 (4 reviews)
Flexible Hangzhou Private Day Tour with Lunch

Flexible Hangzhou Private Day Tour with Lunch

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Have a wonderful Hangzhou sightseeing experience based on your personal interests during this private 8-hour tour. You can also follow a suggested itinerary if you like. Accompanied by your private guide, and get to see the top attractions, such as West Lake, Lingyin Temple, Longjing Tea Field, the old Hefang Street or more. Since the tour is flexible based on your interests, attraction entrance fees are at your own cost. A tasty local lunch and private transfer service are included.

From $170 USD

View Details
3.5 (2 reviews)
VIP Seated Enduring Memories of Hangzhou Show Tour with Authentic Dinner

VIP Seated Enduring Memories of Hangzhou Show Tour with Authentic Dinner

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Firstly, visit Hefang Historical Street. With brilliant culture and long history, it is regarded as a typical symbol of ancient Hangzhou. It represents the old story and showcases the folk culture of Hangzhou, which is an ideal place for shopping, to buy souvenirs, taste local snacks as well as savor the beautiful artifacts. Besides, there are some local popular restaurant, if you like, you can have dinner here, our guide will give you good recommendation. After that, you will enjoy one of famous natural shows in China, the “Impression West Lake Show”. This show lasts around 1 hour, which was directed by Zhangyimou, Fanyue and Wangchaoge. Filmmaker Zhang is the mastermind of many renowned stage spectacles, including the opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The show is praised “A scene in heaven and a dream on earth”. It is definitely a magnificent show with a tremendous music, culture and history set on the stunning backdrop of West Lake.

From $127 USD

View Details
5.0 (70 reviews)
Private Half-Day Real Hong Kong Walking Tour

Private Half-Day Real Hong Kong Walking Tour

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

As featured in Lonely Planet, BBC, The Sunday Province, etc! The Real Hong Kong Tour is an award-winning 4-hour, private walking tour of Hong Kong's Central and Western District. Join your local expert to discover real Hong Kong in the most honest and entertaining way possible. Have you wondered what a local thinks of Hong Kong and how do they live? This tour is perfect if you wish to escape from the tourist bubble for some moments to learn – through observation, participation and lots of fun – about the people who live here!

From $214 USD

View Details
5.0 (2 reviews)
Hangzhou Lingyin Temple Tour

Hangzhou Lingyin Temple Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

You will be taken by a professional guide to wander around the Buddha park and the 1600-year-old temple. The vivid and detailed explanation will help you to better understand the Buddhas and Buddhism in China.

From $70 USD

View Details
5.0 (47 reviews)
Half-Day Flexible Private Hangzhou Highlight Tour

Half-Day Flexible Private Hangzhou Highlight Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Choose two or three of Hangzhou’s top attractions based on your personal preferences during this flexible 4-hour private tour. Whether you want to explore West Lake, visit Lingyin Temple, stroll through Longjing Tea Fields, or wander along the historic Hefang Street, your private guide will tailor the experience just for you. You can also follow a suggested itinerary if you prefer. Upgrade to the all-inclusive package to enjoy a seamless experience with your guide, private car, and entrance tickets to attractions like Lingyin Temple included

From $146 USD

View Details
4.0 (2 reviews)
Hangzhou Authentic Longjing Tea Culture Experience Tour

Hangzhou Authentic Longjing Tea Culture Experience Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Well, Hangzhou is the home of Longjing tea. Tea is an important contribute to human's life. It is pleasant to see the tea plantation to understand the tea culture: How do people pick up the tea leaves? Why they still use hand to fry the leaves in the wok? Why the first cup they only put a little hot water to make the tea? You will be participating in picking the leaves, frying the leaves and take it home as a souvenir made by you in this enriching expierence tour. Tea ceremonry will be very informative. * Discover the beautiful countryside surrounding Hangzhou on a private tour * Hotel pick-up and drop-off, and round-trip vehicle transfer included * Visit the Dragon Well Tea Village, and learn how to pick tea with authentic tools * Stop for a traditional tea house and take part in a tea ceremony

From $53 USD

View Details
5.0 (9 reviews)
4-Hour Hangzhou City Private Customized Tour with Options

4-Hour Hangzhou City Private Customized Tour with Options

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

During this haf-day fully customizable, private Hangzhou sightseeing tour, you get to call the shots. Enjoy a tailor-made itinerary,designed with your unique interests in mind, visit some of city’s must-see top attractions such as West Lake, Longjing Tea Plantation, Linyin temple and Peak fly from afar etc. Choose between lunch and dinner options. Convenient and comfortable door to door transfer from Hangzhou hotel or Hangzhou train station are included.

From $131 USD

View Details
5.0 (19 reviews)
Zuiyi Hangzhou Impression West Lake Show Ticket

Zuiyi Hangzhou Impression West Lake Show Ticket

INSTANT

Head to the Zuiyi Hangzhou Impression West Lake Show (Enduring Memories Of Hangzhou) along West Lake or a water light performance complete with colorful costumes and dramatic lighting and dancing. During the 60 minutes show, the talent 200 performers performed on water. The Elegant ballet dancer, beautiful Chinese traditional music, Massive Stage. The performance have been illuminated. An Unforgettable Show impressive both for adults and kids.

From $75 USD

View Details
4.7 (9 reviews)
Hangzhou Impressoin West Lake- Enduring Memory of Hangzhou Show Tour

Hangzhou Impressoin West Lake- Enduring Memory of Hangzhou Show Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Pick up service is arranged at your hotel lobby in Hangzhou or Hangzhou train station. Firstly, visit Hefang Historical Street. With brilliant culture and long history, it is regarded as a typical symbol of ancient Hangzhou. It represents the old story and showcases the folk culture of Hangzhou, which is an ideal place for shopping, to buy souvenirs, taste local snacks as well as savor the beautiful artifacts. Besides, there are some local popular restaurant, if you like, you can have dinner here, our guide will give you good recommendation. Then you will walk around the lakeside to see the local life.

From $100 USD

View Details

FAQ

Find quick answers to your Hangzhou travel questions with our travel guide chatbot. Your questions will be added to this section to help other travellers.

Travel Essentials

Primary hero image

Ready to plan your trip?

Share your travel insights or create a new guide for fellow adventurers!