Flights from Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN) to Hangzhou (HGH)

About Hangzhou

Discover Hangzhou

Why visit Hangzhou?
Hangzhou is known for its serene West Lake, lush green hills, and a balance of tradition and modern living. You will find elegant waterfront promenades, leafy temples, and neighbourhoods where tea culture and contemporary design sit side by side.

What to expect
The city centres on West Lake and its causeways, then stretches out to tree-lined avenues, business districts, and scenic tea plantations. Expect efficient transport, a growing creative scene, and a relaxed pace that invites you to stroll, sit by the water, and take in the views.

Plan your trip
Hangzhou is a rewarding stand-alone destination and a convenient base for exploring the wider Zhejiang region. High-speed rail and road links make it easy to combine West Lake with nearby historic towns and countryside, turning your visit into a varied city-and-nature journey.

Top sights in Hangzhou

West Lake

Walk, cycle, or cruise around this UNESCO-listed lake, known for willow-lined shores, stone bridges, and misty views.

Leifeng Pagoda

Climb or take the lift up this lakeside pagoda for sweeping panoramas over West Lake and the surrounding city skyline.

Lingyin Scenic Area

Explore forested trails, dramatic rock formations, and historic stone carvings in one of Hangzhou’s most atmospheric green zones.

Hefang Street

Stroll this historic pedestrian street filled with traditional facades, snack stalls, and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.

Longjing Tea Plantations

Head into the hills to see terraced tea fields, learn about Longjing tea, and enjoy fresh air just outside the city centre.

Grand Canal Hangzhou

Visit the southern end of the ancient canal, where museums, old warehouses, and waterfront walks tell the story of historic trade routes.

Xixi National Wetland Park

Take a boat ride or boardwalk walk through tranquil wetlands dotted with waterways, cottages, and seasonal flowers.

Hubin and Lakeside Promenades

Join locals on the lakeside promenades for evening walks, seasonal light displays, and reflections of the city on the water.

Experience Hangzhou’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Hangzhou’s metro network is the fastest way to cover longer distances between West Lake, business districts, and railway stations. Buses and taxis fill in the gaps, while cycling paths around the lake offer a scenic way to move at a slower pace. For short hops, shared bikes are easy to find.

Local life & culture
Around West Lake and the tea-growing villages, daily life moves at a relaxed tempo, with many residents spending time outdoors on promenades and in parks. Creative districts and university areas add a youthful, artistic edge, with galleries, studios, and small performance spaces integrated into the urban fabric.

Where to unwind
West Lake’s causeways, nearby hills, and the wetlands at Xixi offer calm spaces to slow down and enjoy nature. Early mornings bring soft light and quieter paths, while late afternoons are ideal for gentle walks with sunset views. Many lakeside benches and gardens invite you to pause and take in the scenery.

A taste of Hangzhou

Street food & local specialties
Hangzhou is known for delicate flavours and seasonal ingredients, with many classic dishes inspired by West Lake and local rivers. You will find casual eateries and snack stalls around Hefang Street, neighbourhood markets, and residential lanes serving comforting bowls, pastries, and light bites.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping streets and newer commercial districts gather a wide range of casual restaurants, from local kitchens to regional Chinese and international options. Many menus feature small plates and shared dishes, making it easy to sample different flavours and dine with friends or family.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, many visitors choose venues overlooking West Lake or set within renovated historic buildings. Dining by the water or above the tree line adds a special atmosphere, especially at sunset, turning a leisurely lunch or dinner into a highlight of your visit.

Retail therapy in Hangzhou

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central Hangzhou features modern shopping malls that bring together international labels, local designers, cinemas, and family-friendly entertainment. These hubs are comfortable places to browse, dine, and take a break between sightseeing around the lake and business appointments in the city.

Markets & local crafts
Historic streets such as Hefang Street and nearby lanes are good places to look for locally made items, including tea-related products, textiles, and small handicrafts. Other neighbourhoods mix independent boutiques with small studios, where you can discover design-focused pieces and creative brands.

Evening retail scene
After dark, illuminated streets and lakeside promenades give the retail areas a lively yet relaxed feel. Some pedestrian zones stay active into the evening, with shops, snack stalls, and cafés welcoming late visitors. Public transport and taxis make it straightforward to return to your hotel after exploring.

Best time to visit Hangzhou

Spring (chun) – March to May, shoulder season
Spring in Hangzhou is mild and fresh, with average temperatures around 13–22°C (55–72°F). Blossoms appear around West Lake and in the tea fields, creating soft colours and comfortable conditions for walking and cycling.

Summer (xia) – June to August, peak season
Summer brings warm, often humid weather, with temperatures averaging 25–33°C (77–91°F). Trees are lush, the lake is vibrant, and longer daylight hours give you more time for evening strolls and boat rides on the water.

Autumn and winter (qiu, dong) – September to February, low season
Autumn is crisp and clear, around 15–25°C (59–77°F), with golden foliage and calm skies. Winter is cooler, typically 3–10°C (37–50°F), with a quieter atmosphere, softer light over West Lake, and fewer crowds at many attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions