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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

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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:

Mandarin 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.

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Peking Duck

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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...

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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.

2-Hour Chinese Calligraphy with an Artist in Shanghai, China

2-Hour Chinese Calligraphy with an Artist in Shanghai, China

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

To the Chinese, calligraphy is more than just art—it embodies the very spirit they have lived by for thousands of years. Learn from a professional calligrapher during this small-group workshop. Not only will you experience an ancient art form, you will also gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture. Our workshop takes place in a beautiful and peaceful studio in the heart of Shanghai. - This experience is designed for participants from all cultural backgrounds and skill levels. - This small-group workshop allows for personalized attention - Leave this workshop with your own calligraphy artwork - Meet at a convenient location near Jing’an Temple in the heart of Shanghai

5.0 (38 reviews)

From $50 USD

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Attractions

5.0 (38 reviews)
2-Hour Chinese Calligraphy with an Artist in Shanghai, China

2-Hour Chinese Calligraphy with an Artist in Shanghai, China

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

To the Chinese, calligraphy is more than just art—it embodies the very spirit they have lived by for thousands of years. Learn from a professional calligrapher during this small-group workshop. Not only will you experience an ancient art form, you will also gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture. Our workshop takes place in a beautiful and peaceful studio in the heart of Shanghai. - This experience is designed for participants from all cultural backgrounds and skill levels. - This small-group workshop allows for personalized attention - Leave this workshop with your own calligraphy artwork - Meet at a convenient location near Jing’an Temple in the heart of Shanghai

From $50 USD

View Details
4.9 (7 reviews)
Skip-The-Line Uber Service to Great Wall of China

Skip-The-Line Uber Service to Great Wall of China

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

1. Personalized Experience: With an Uber, you have the freedom to set your own schedule. You can decide when to leave, how long to stay at the Great Wall, and when to return. It’s less rigid than a group tour. 2. Comfort and Convenience: Depending on the type of Uber you choose, you can ride in comfort, with options like UberXL or Uber Black, which could offer more space or a more luxurious ride. No need to cram into a crowded bus with strangers. 3. Direct Route: You’ll be driven directly to the entrance or a specific part of the Wall that you want to visit (e.g., Mutianyu or Badaling). There’s no need to navigate through busy tourist areas or make unnecessary stops, which can be a common issue with group tours. 4. Cost-Effective for Small Groups: If you're traveling with a small group (family or friends), an Uber might end up being more cost-effective than booking a private tour, especially if you opt for a ride-share option like UberPOOL (if available).

From $75 USD

View Details
5.0 (16 reviews)
China's Favourite Street Food Cooking Workshop

China's Favourite Street Food Cooking Workshop

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

We will learn where Beijing's favourite street food comes from, and then go onto making our own delicious creations and becoming legendary jian bing chefs! Our experiences are all about the good times...It's the only reason we exist. This experience puts our favourite food on the stage with our new flavours and fillings to make them our own! If you like food and would like to learn how to make this tasty food with ease, then this is for you.

From $55 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Private Jingshan Park+China National Museum/Forbidden City Tour

Private Jingshan Park+China National Museum/Forbidden City Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Climb up to the top of Jingshan park take a birdview of forbidden City and Beijing Central Axis in morning then go to explore one of the best museum of China: National museum of China. Private guide, entrance tickets and hotel pickup within the 4th Ring Road are all included.

From $110 USD

View Details
3.9 (64 reviews)
China Acrobatics Show and Shanghai Evening Tour

China Acrobatics Show and Shanghai Evening Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Your evening tour of Shanghai begins by attending an astounding performance by the Shanghai Acrobatics School&Troupe. They have won hundreds of gold medals in different international acrobatics competitions, and are beloved by their countrymen for the incredible feats of skill and grace. If you have never experienced a world-class acrobatics show, this is a must-see event. The show tickets in level C are included. If you need to upgrade your tickets into level B or level A, please contact the local tour operator after you purchase.

From $119 USD

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4.0 (1 reviews)
Kayaking Activity in Yangshuo Park, China

Kayaking Activity in Yangshuo Park, China

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Kayaking is a good time, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of rivers, giving you the opportunity to learn new life skills and enjoy the outdoors. Kayaking in the hot summer is undoubtedly the most suitable summer activity. Let us wander on the quiet Lijiang River, feeling the breeze, the detached realm of the waves, letting you enjoy the scenery along the way. See the warm and generous smiles of fishermen, watch those lazy buffalo, and feel as though you are in an ancient Chinese painting. Because it is a water activity, everyone must wear a life jacket. Those with glasses or sunglasses need to wear anti-skid glasses straps. Mobile phones need to be put in a waterproof bag. Don't worry about the photos, the coach takes a professional waterproof camera.  Enjoy a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city  Enjoy the stunning view of Li River  Visit local villages and interview people

From $75 USD

View Details

FAQ

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