Hangzhou杭州

Overview

Hangzhou is one of China's Seven Ancient Capitals, famous for West Lake. Both West Lake and the Grand Canal are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Marco Polo called it "the most beautiful and splendid city in the world".

Key Facts

Top Attractions

West Lake

UNESCO World Heritage, China's most famous lake. Ten classic scenes including Su Causeway, Broken Bridge, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon.

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Lingyin Temple

Famous ancient temple, founded in Eastern Jin Dynasty 1,700 years ago. Feilai Peak stone carvings are exquisite.

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Xixi Wetland

China's first national wetland park. A hidden paradise in the city with winding waterways and swaying reeds.

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Qiandao Lake

1,078 islands scattered across crystal waters, known as "the most beautiful water under heaven".

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Songcheng Theme Park

Grand Song culture theme park. "Romance of the Song Dynasty" show recreates the Southern Song splendor.

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Longjing Village

Origin of China's top Longjing tea. Terraced tea gardens, tea picking and making experience available.

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Food & Snacks

West Lake Vinegar Fish

Signature Hangzhou dish. Grass carp from West Lake, sweet and sour sauce, tender fish.

Dongpo Pork

Created by poet Su Dongpo. Slow-braised pork belly, rich but not greasy, melts in mouth.

Longjing Shrimp

Fresh shrimp with Longjing tea leaves, delicate and fragrant, an elegant Hangzhou specialty.

Beggar's Chicken

Wrapped in lotus leaf and clay, baked. Tender chicken with lotus fragrance.

Festivals & Events

World & Intangible Heritage

• West Lake Cultural Landscape (2011) — UNESCO listed 2011. A model of harmony between humans and nature, comprising the lake, hills, temples, causeways and gardens.
• The Grand Canal (Hangzhou) (2014) — UNESCO listed 2014. World's longest artificial waterway, Gongchen Bridge section well preserved.
• Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City (2019) — UNESCO listed 2019. Evidence of 5,000 years of Chinese civilization.
• West Lake Longjing Tea Making (2008) — Hand-roasting techniques for Longjing tea, ten exquisite methods representing the pinnacle of green tea craftsmanship.
• Hangzhou Silk Weaving (2009) — Hangzhou's ancient silk weaving tradition, truly deserving the title "Capital of Silk".

Practical Tips