Hangzhou Travel Guide

This Hangzhou travel guide is for first-timers who want an easy “nature-meets-city” escape from Shanghai. Hangzhou is famous for West Lake, and the most comfortable plan typically consists of two parts: a leisurely walk around the clean West Lake and a half-day visit to the Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea Village. Below, you’ll find relaxed 1–2 day itineraries, along with the simplest high-speed train and metro logic to complete both without rushing.

Hangzhou at a Glance

Recommended stay: 1–2 days (or a day trip from Shanghai)
Best for: West Lake scenery, walking, tea culture, weekend pacing
Day trip from Shanghai? Yes (very easy by high-speed rail)
Where to base yourself (quick pick): near West Lake for views; city center for balance; near Hangzhou East Station only if you’re catching trains

Top Things to Do in Hangzhou

Must-see (first time)

Walk a West Lake loop that fits your energy
Pick one boat ride option only if it genuinely improves your day (don’t force it)
Add Longjing Tea Village for the “Hangzhou feeling” beyond the lake

If you have extra time

Spend a second day: lake at a slower pace + tea village + one calm add-on

Hangzhou Itinerary Ideas (1–2 Days)

Day trip from Shanghai: West Lake highlights in one day

Use this route if you want West Lake done right in one day: Day Trip to Hangzhou from Shanghai: West Lake Highlights in One Day

Hangzhou travel guide West Lake arched bridge scenery in Hangzhou — Hangzhou travel guide: West Lake arched bridge scenery in Hangzhou

2 Days in Hangzhou (West Lake + tea villages)

This is the most comfortable “worth it” plan for many travelers: 2 Days in Hangzhou: West Lake + Tea Villages Itinerary

West Lake Walking Route (The Loop That Works)

Best viewpoints and optional boat ride

For the best walking loop, viewpoints, and boat ride tips: West Lake Guide: Best Walking Loop, Viewpoints, and Boat Rides

Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea Village Guide (Beginner-Friendly)

How to visit + what to order

If you’ve never done a tea tasting before, this guide keeps it simple and stress-free: Longjing Tea Village: How to Visit + What to Order (Beginner-Friendly)

How to Get to Hangzhou from Shanghai (High-Speed Train)

Which station to use + booking tips

For station choices, booking tips, and day-trip timing templates: Shanghai to Hangzhou High-Speed Train: Which Station to Use + Booking

Getting Around Hangzhou (Metro + Walking)

How to reach West Lake, Xixi, and the stations

Hangzhou is easiest with metro + walking, especially for West Lake and major hubs: Hangzhou Metro Guide: How to Reach West Lake, Xixi, and Stations

Where to Stay in Hangzhou (Best Areas)

West Lake views vs transit convenience

If you’re staying overnight, choose your base area based on your priorities (West Lake views vs transit efficiency): Where to Stay in Hangzhou: Best Areas for West Lake and Transit

Hangzhou travel guide :West Lake view with Leifeng Pagoda in the background — Hangzhou travel guide: West Lake view with Leifeng Pagoda in the background

Next Stop: Hangzhou to Huangshan (Train + Bus)

Best route to Tangkou for tourists

If your trip continues to Yellow Mountain, this route guide will save you the most confusion (train + bus + Tangkou logic): Hangzhou to Huangshan: Best Route (Train + Bus) for Tourists