Hangzhou 5 Days Itinerary

Hangzhou Travel Guide 📍 Itinerary Overview Hangzhou, often called “Heaven on Earth,” is known for its stunning West Lake, rich cultural heritage, and famous Longjing tea. This guide covers the best attractions, local cuisine, and essential travel tips for an unforgettable trip. 🚩 Sightseeing Route Day 1: West Lake & Cultural Landmarks • Take a West Lake Boat Cruise and visit Three Pools Mirroring the Moon. • Walk or bike along Su Causeway for breathtaking lake views. • Explore Leifeng Pagoda for a panoramic sunset view of the lake. • Stroll down Hefang Street, famous for local snacks and traditional handicrafts. • Watch the Impression West Lake show, a spectacular outdoor performance on the water. Day 2: Tea Culture & Nature • Visit Meijiawu Tea Village to learn about Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea. • Explore Lingyin Temple, one of China’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temples. • Hike to Feilai Peak, home to ancient Buddhist grotto carvings. • Enjoy a peaceful afternoon at Xixi National Wetland Park, perfect for boat rides. Day 3: Modern Hangzhou & Shopping • Tour Alibaba’s Headquarters to see Hangzhou’s tech innovation. • Visit the China National Silk Museum to learn about Hangzhou’s silk heritage. • Shop at Hubin Pedestrian Street, a mix of luxury brands and local boutiques. • End your trip with a relaxing stay at Banyan Tree Hangzhou. 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions ✅ West Lake (Xī Hú) – The heart of Hangzhou, best explored by boat or bike. ✅ Lingyin Temple – A historic Buddhist temple with intricate rock carvings. ✅ Longjing Tea Plantations – Experience authentic tea picking and tasting. ✅ Hefang Street – A vibrant old street full of local delicacies and crafts. ✅ Xixi Wetland Park – A peaceful natural retreat with waterways and wooden boats. ✅ Leifeng Pagoda – A legendary pagoda with stunning West Lake views. 🚇 Transportation 🚆 From Shanghai: • High-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao to Hangzhou East (~1 hour). 🚕 Getting Around: • Metro: Convenient and connects key areas. • Taxis/Didi: Easy to book via Alipay or WeChat. • Bikes: Shared bikes (Alipay/WeChat) are great for West Lake. 📷 Best Photo Spots 📍 Broken Bridge in Winter – A legendary spot with misty lake views. 📍 Sunset at Leifeng Pagoda – A must-see for breathtaking scenery. 📍 Tea Fields in Longjing Village – Lush green hills perfect for photos. 📍 Impression West Lake Show – Stunning reflections on the water at night. 📍 Xixi Wetland Park – Traditional wooden boats in a serene setting. 🍜 Local Cuisine to Try 🍲 Dongpo Pork – Slow-braised pork belly in sweet soy sauce. 🐟 West Lake Vinegar Fish – A classic Hangzhou dish with a sweet and sour sauce. 🥢 Beggar’s Chicken – Chicken baked in lotus leaves and clay. 🍜 Pian Er Chuan Noodles – A light noodle soup with pickled vegetables. 🫖 Longjing Tea – The most famous green tea from Hangzhou. 🏠 Accommodation 🏡 Banyan Tree Hangzhou – A luxurious retreat inside Xixi Wetland Park,