Flights from Manila (MNL) to Hangzhou (HGH)

About Hangzhou

Discover Hangzhou

Why visit Hangzhou?
Hangzhou is celebrated for its classical landscapes, centred on West Lake, where tree-lined shores and historic bridges meet a modern, growing city. You can expect a calm, scenic atmosphere, with tea-covered hills and waterways never far from the urban centre.

What to expect
The city blends leafy boulevards, contemporary business districts, and historic lanes, making it easy to move between lakeside walks and lively shopping streets. Well-planned parks, museums, and walking paths give Hangzhou a relaxed pace, while new technology zones showcase its forward-looking side.

Plan your trip
Hangzhou works well as a stand-alone city break or as part of a wider journey through eastern China. With fast rail links and good regional connections, it is also a convenient gateway for exploring nearby water towns, tea-growing villages, and other cities along the Yangtze River Delta.

Top sights in Hangzhou

West Lake

Stroll or cruise around this iconic lake to see pagodas, causeways, and carefully framed views that have inspired artists for centuries.

Leifeng Pagoda

Climb or ride up to this lakeside landmark for sweeping views over West Lake, the city skyline, and surrounding hills.

Lingyin Scenic Area

Explore forested hills, stone carvings, and atmospheric pathways in one of Hangzhou’s most famous scenic zones.

Longjing Tea Plantations

Walk among neatly terraced tea fields, learn about local tea traditions, and enjoy fresh brews in hillside villages.

Grand Canal Hangzhou

Visit canal-side warehouses and pedestrian paths that have been transformed into cultural spaces, cafés, and museums.

Hefang Street

Wander this historic street lined with traditional façades, where shops and stalls offer snacks, crafts, and souvenirs.

Xixi National Wetland Park

Take a boat ride or follow wooden walkways through waterways, islands, and reed beds on the city’s western edge.

Qinghefang Historic District

Step into lanes of restored buildings that house boutiques, tea houses, and small museums showcasing local heritage.

Experience Hangzhou’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Hangzhou’s metro network is the fastest way to cover longer distances between the lake, business districts, and train stations. Buses and taxis fill in the gaps, while bike-sharing services are ideal for gentle rides along West Lake or the canal. Walking works well within compact central neighbourhoods.

Local life & culture
You will find an easy-going pace around West Lake in the early morning, when locals gather for exercise and socialising. Neighbourhoods near universities and tech parks feel energetic and modern, with galleries, design spaces, and small performance venues adding to the city’s creative side. Traditional streets preserve older architecture and small family-run shops.

Where to unwind
Calm green spaces are woven into Hangzhou, whether you choose a quiet bench by the water or a hill path overlooking the city. Evenings at the lake are especially relaxing, with reflections of bridges and trees on the water. Wetland parks and tea hills offer cooler, breezier escapes on warm days.

A taste of Hangzhou

Street food & local specialties
Hangzhou cuisine is known for light, balanced flavours that highlight seasonal ingredients and freshwater fish. Around Hefang Street and in older neighbourhoods, you can sample snacks, noodles, and small plates that give a sense of the region’s traditional food culture.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping centres and newer districts host a wide range of restaurants, from quick-service counters to contemporary casual spots. Many places offer smaller portions or sharing plates, so you can try several dishes in one meal and mix local flavours with wider Asian or international options.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, choose a restaurant with views over West Lake or the surrounding hills, where large windows and terraces frame the scenery. Lakeside hotels and refined venues often pair their settings with carefully presented regional dishes, making special occasions feel even more distinctive.

Retail therapy in Hangzhou

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central Hangzhou offers modern malls where international brands sit alongside home-grown labels, cinemas, and cafés. These lifestyle centres are popular meeting points, combining shopping with dining and entertainment under one roof, and are easy to reach by metro.

Markets & local crafts
Historic districts such as Hefang Street and Qinghefang are known for traditional crafts, tea shops, and small studios. Here you can browse everything from silk and fans to contemporary design pieces, while smaller streets nearby reveal independent boutiques and speciality stores.

Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets light up with colourful signs and lively window displays. Some areas stay open late, making it easy to combine an evening walk with browsing and snacking. Well-connected metro lines and taxis help you move comfortably between night-time districts and your hotel.

Best time to visit Hangzhou

Spring (chun) – March to May, shoulder season
Spring in Hangzhou is mild, with temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F) and fresh greenery around West Lake and the tea fields. Occasional light rain brings out misty views, creating atmospheric walks while crowds remain comfortably manageable.

Summer (xia) – June to September, peak season
Summer is warm and humid, with average temperatures of 26–32°C (79–90°F). This is a lively time to visit, with lush vegetation, longer daylight hours, and evening lake cruises. Light clothing and breaks in shaded parks help you enjoy the outdoor sights.

Autumn and winter (qiu/dong) – October to February, low season
Autumn brings clear skies and temperatures of about 15–20°C (59–68°F), ideal for walking and cycling. Winter is cooler, around 5–10°C (41–50°F), giving the city a quieter feel and softer light over the lake, which many travellers find peaceful and reflective.

Frequently Asked Questions