Hangzhou, often called the “Heaven on Earth,” has a climate that beautifully complements its famous West Lake scenery and historic charm.
Spring in Hangzhou is cool and refreshing, with blooming flowers and willow trees reflecting on the lake—it’s the perfect time for a boat ride or a walk through the tea fields of Longjing. Summer, however, can be hot and humid, but that’s also when West Lake shines under the lotus blossoms, and enjoying a bowl of chilled desserts becomes a must. Autumn is mild and breezy, making it the most comfortable season to explore the lake’s pagodas, gardens, and temples, or simply sip local Dragon Well tea with a lakeside view. Winter in Hangzhou is cold but not harsh, with misty mornings that make the city look like a classical Chinese painting—it’s the coziest time to enjoy a steaming bowl of noodles or hearty local dishes.
As a Malaysian traveller, I find Hangzhou enchanting in every season—whether it’s the vibrant spring colours, golden autumn leaves, or just the peaceful joy of watching the lake from a teahouse, each visit reveals a new layer of its timeless beauty.
🌤️ Hangzhou Climate Overview
Weather in Hangzhou
🏞️ About Hangzhou Weather
Spring (March to May) 🌷
Spring in Hangzhou is cool and refreshing, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 23°C. Flowers bloom beautifully around West Lake, especially the peach blossoms and willows swaying by the water. It’s the perfect season for a boat ride or a walk through the Longjing tea fields. Light showers are common, so I always carry an umbrella just in case.
Summer (June to August) 🌞
Summer in Hangzhou is hot and humid, with temperatures between 27°C and 35°C. As a Malaysian traveller, I’m quite used to the heat, but the humidity here can feel heavy at times. This is also when West Lake is at its most lively, with lotus flowers in full bloom. Cooling off with a bowl of sweet iced desserts or relaxing in a shaded teahouse by the lake is the best way to enjoy the season.
Autumn (September to November) 🍁
Autumn in Hangzhou is mild and pleasant, usually ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The crisp air and golden foliage make the city especially stunning—walking or cycling around West Lake during this season is truly unforgettable. I personally find autumn the best time to visit, as the weather is comfortable and perfect for exploring temples, gardens, and scenic viewpoints.
Winter (December to February) 🌨️
Winter in Hangzhou is cold but not extreme, with temperatures around 4°C to 10°C. Mornings are often misty, and the lake scenery looks like a traditional Chinese painting. It’s also the coziest time to enjoy steaming bowls of noodles or hearty Hangzhou cuisine. A warm jacket, scarf, and a few layers are enough to stay comfortable while exploring.
Top Things to do in Hangzhou
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🌸 Spring in Hangzhou
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Hangzhou as the city comes alive with fresh greenery and blossoms. Temperatures range from 13°C to 23°C, and West Lake is especially stunning with peach blossoms and willows by the water. As a Malaysian traveller, I find the weather pleasantly cool—perfect for sightseeing without getting tired easily.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
Temperature | 13°C–23°C |
Rainfall | Light showers are common, so an umbrella is useful |
Clothing | Light layers, comfortable walking shoes, and a small umbrella |
Best Activities | Take a boat ride on West Lake, visit Longjing tea plantations, and explore gardens and pagodas |
Festivals & Events | Hangzhou West Lake Music Festival, spring flower fairs |
Spring is a refreshing season to enjoy Hangzhou’s natural beauty and peaceful charm.
Recommended Hotels in Hangzhou
☀️ Summer in Hangzhou
Summer (June to August) in Hangzhou is hot and humid, with temperatures between 27°C and 35°C. The heat feels familiar for Malaysians, but the humidity can be intense. This is also when West Lake is filled with lotus blossoms, making the scenery extra beautiful. I find it best to slow down, relax in shaded teahouses, and enjoy local iced desserts to cool off.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
Temperature | 27°C–35°C |
Rainfall | Frequent rain showers and occasional thunderstorms |
Clothing | Light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, hat, and an umbrella |
Best Activities | Stroll around West Lake in the evening, explore air-conditioned museums, and try chilled desserts |
Festivals & Events | Dragon Boat Festival and lotus flower viewing at West Lake |
Summer in Hangzhou is vibrant, but you’ll want to plan activities around the heat.
🍂 Autumn in Hangzhou
Autumn (September to November) is the most comfortable season to visit Hangzhou, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The weather is crisp and mild, and the golden autumn leaves make West Lake and the surrounding hills incredibly scenic. Personally, I enjoy autumn the most—it’s perfect for cycling around the lake or sipping tea with a view.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
Temperature | 15°C–25°C |
Rainfall | Low, with mostly clear skies |
Clothing | Light layers, comfortable shoes |
Best Activities | Cycle or walk around West Lake, visit temples and gardens, enjoy Longjing tea in teahouses |
Festivals & Events | Mid-Autumn Festival and Hangzhou International Fireworks Show |
Autumn is truly the best season to explore Hangzhou at a relaxed pace.
❄️ Winter in Hangzhou
Winter (December to February) is cold and misty, with temperatures between 4°C and 10°C. Snow is rare but the fog and mist around West Lake make the scenery look like a Chinese painting. As a Malaysian, I find the chill refreshing but definitely need warm clothes to stay comfortable.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
Temperature | 4°C–10°C |
Rainfall | Low, but foggy days are frequent |
Clothing | Warm jacket, scarf, gloves, and layers |
Best Activities | Visit Leifeng Pagoda, enjoy tea in traditional teahouses, and try Hangzhou’s winter dishes like Dongpo pork |
Festivals & Events | Chinese New Year and the Spring Festival |
Winter in Hangzhou is calm and atmospheric—the perfect season to enjoy cozy meals and the city’s slower pace.
Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Hangzhou
- Pergi Balik
- Sehala
- direct cheapest
KUL17:005j 25mTanpa hentiHGH22:25Kuala Lumpur - Hangzhou|Sab, 17 Jan|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)HGH23:405j 40mTanpa hentiKUL05:20Hangzhou - Kuala Lumpur|Sab, 24 Jan|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)US$ 220US$ 24811% OFF11% OFFUS$ 248US$ 220 - KUL17:005j 25mTanpa hentiHGH22:25Kuala Lumpur - Hangzhou|Sab, 10 Jan|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)HGH14:255j 40mTanpa hentiKUL20:05Hangzhou - Kuala Lumpur|Rab, 14 Jan|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)US$ 220US$ 24811% OFF11% OFFUS$ 248US$ 220
KUL00:4516j 40m1 hentianHGH17:25Kuala Lumpur - Hangzhou|Ahd, 11 Jan|Sichuan AirlinesHGH10:3513j 10m1 hentianKUL23:45Hangzhou - Kuala Lumpur|Sel, 13 Jan|Sichuan AirlinesUS$ 217US$ 24812% OFF12% OFFUS$ 248US$ 217
KUL1:00 PM3j 5mTanpa hentiHGH2:00 PMKuala Lumpur - Hangzhou|Sat, Dec 13|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)
HGH1:00 PM3j 5mTanpa hentiKUL2:00 PMHangzhou - Kuala Lumpur|Sat, Dec 13|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)Cari Penerbangan LainCari Penerbangan Lain
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🌞 Outdoor Activities During Sunny and Warm Weather
Take a Boat Ride on West Lake
On a sunny day, West Lake is absolutely breathtaking. A boat ride lets you enjoy the reflections of pagodas, willow trees, and lotus blossoms. As a Malaysian traveller, I find it a peaceful and scenic way to spend a morning.
- Recommended duration: 2–3 hours
- Estimated cost: Around RM30–RM50 (boat ride ticket)
Stroll Through the Longjing Tea Plantations
Sunny weather is the best time to walk through Hangzhou’s famous Longjing tea fields. You can watch tea-picking, enjoy the green hills, and even taste freshly brewed Dragon Well tea.
- Recommended duration: Half a day
- Estimated cost: RM20–RM40 (entrance + tea tasting)
Hike Around Nine Creeks and Eighteen Gullies (Jiuxi Shibadao)
This scenic hiking area outside West Lake is full of streams, bamboo groves, and small bridges. On clear days, the fresh air and lush scenery make it perfect for a nature escape.
- Recommended duration: 1 day
- Estimated cost: Free or minimal (transport only)
Wander Hefang Street
Sunny evenings are ideal for exploring Hefang Street, a lively area filled with traditional shops, street snacks, and handicrafts. I enjoy trying local treats and soaking up the vibrant old-town atmosphere.
- Recommended duration: 2–3 hours
- Admission: Free (cost depends on food and shopping)
Relax in Hangzhou’s Parks and Gardens
Sunny days are perfect for visiting places like Guo’s Villa or the Flower Harbor Park, where you can enjoy classical Chinese gardens and lakeside views.
- Recommended duration: 2–4 hours
- Admission: Around RM10–RM30
🌧️ Indoor Activities During Rainy Days
Cultural Experiences
- China National Tea Museum: Learn about China’s tea history and culture, with interactive displays and tea-tasting sessions. Recommended time: 2–3 hours.
- Zhejiang Museum: A great place to explore Hangzhou’s history, art, and cultural heritage.
Religious & Heritage Sites
- Lingyin Temple: One of China’s most famous Buddhist temples, with grand halls and statues—perfect for exploring even on a rainy day.
- Leifeng Pagoda: A historical pagoda with panoramic views of West Lake (best if the rain is light or stops).
Shopping and Entertainment
- Hubin Yintai In77: A modern shopping complex near West Lake with boutiques, cafés, and restaurants.
- Hangzhou Tower Shopping City: Packed with international brands, perfect for escaping the rain.
Leisure and Relaxation
- Hangzhou Impression West Lake Show: An indoor/outdoor performance (depending on the season) that tells the story of West Lake through music and lights.
- Local Dining: Rainy evenings are perfect for enjoying warm Hangzhou specialties like Dongpo Pork, Beggar’s Chicken, or a hot bowl of noodles in a cozy restaurant.
🍲 Hangzhou Weather & Temperature Guide
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Hangzhou, with mild and comfortable weather that makes exploring West Lake, wandering through tea plantations, or cycling along the lakeside especially enjoyable. Each season has its own charm—from misty winter mornings that turn the city into a traditional Chinese painting, to lively summer days filled with lotus blossoms and evening strolls by the water.
Not sure which season matches your travel style? Our Best Time to Visit Hangzhou guide will help you pair the city’s weather with your ideal trip—whether you’re chasing cultural festivals, scenic photo opportunities, or cosy indoor tea sessions.
Once you’ve chosen your travel dates, don’t forget to check the latest flights to Hangzhou and hotel deals. Still wondering where to stay? Browse our Where to Stay in Hangzhou guide to find the right neighbourhood—whether you prefer the bustling city centre, serene lakeside stays, or historic streets like Hefang Street.
For more inspiration, take a look at Top Things to Do in Hangzhou and start planning your perfect trip to this timeless “Heaven on Earth.”
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FAQs: Weather in Hangzhou
What’s the best way to get around Hangzhou?
The metro and buses are the easiest and most affordable ways to explore Hangzhou. They connect most key attractions, including West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and the city centre. I recommend getting a Hangzhou Transportation Smart Card—it works for metro rides, buses, and even some taxis.Is Hangzhou safe for tourists?
Yes, Hangzhou is very safe, even for solo travellers. Just be mindful of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas, and be careful when crossing busy roads. During summer, the heat and humidity can feel strong, so carry water to stay hydrated.What’s the best neighbourhood to stay in?
- First-time visitors: Stay near West Lake for the most iconic views and easy access to major attractions.
- Culture lovers: Hefang Street and the historic old town area are perfect for traditional shops, food, and heritage.
- Budget travellers: Areas around Hangzhou East Railway Station or Wulin Square have affordable hotels with convenient metro access.
What local food should I try in Hangzhou?
- Dongpo Pork – Rich and flavourful, a Hangzhou classic.
- Beggar’s Chicken – Slow-cooked and fragrant, often wrapped in lotus leaves.
- West Lake Fish in Vinegar Sauce – A sweet and sour specialty.
- Longjing Shrimp – Fresh shrimp stir-fried with Hangzhou’s famous Dragon Well tea.
What’s a common tourist mistake in Hangzhou?
Many visitors underestimate the size of West Lake—it’s much bigger than it looks on the map. Walking all the way around can take hours, so plan your route or rent a bike. Also, weekends and public holidays get very crowded, so I usually visit early in the morning for a quieter experience.Do I need cash, or can I use a credit card everywhere?
Most locals use WeChat Pay or Alipay. As a Malaysian traveller, I’ve found that credit cards are accepted in hotels, malls, and bigger restaurants, but smaller shops, tea houses, and street food stalls often prefer cash. I usually keep around ¥200–¥300 (RM150–RM220) handy.Is tipping expected in Hangzhou?
No, tipping isn’t part of the culture. Hotels or Western-style restaurants might accept it, but it’s not expected.