Flights from Beijing (BJS) to Hangzhou (HGH)

About Hangzhou

Discover Hangzhou

Why visit Hangzhou?
Hangzhou is known for its calm lakeside scenery, historic streets, and green hills wrapped around a modern, fast-growing city. You will find a relaxed pace by the water, matched with a dynamic business and tech scene inland.

What to expect
At the heart of the city is the famous West Lake, lined with walking paths, gardens, and cultural landmarks. Beyond the shoreline, you can explore tea fields, creative districts, and contemporary neighbourhoods that showcase Hangzhou as both a cultural hub and an innovation centre.

Plan your trip
Hangzhou is an easy city to navigate for a short break or as part of a wider journey through eastern China. It connects conveniently with nearby cities by high-speed rail and highway, making it a practical base for exploring surrounding lakes, ancient towns, and countryside.

Top sights in Hangzhou

West Lake

Stroll or cycle around this landmark lake to enjoy tree-lined paths, classic bridges, and views that change with every season.

Leifeng Pagoda

Ride the lifts or climb up for wide views over West Lake, the city skyline, and the nearby hills.

Lingyin Scenic Area

Wander through forested paths and dramatic rock formations in one of Hangzhou's most atmospheric green areas.

Longjing Tea Plantations

Head into the hills to walk among terraced tea fields and learn how the region's renowned green tea is produced.

Grand Canal Hangzhou

Explore canalside lanes, warehouses, and museums along the southern reaches of the historic Grand Canal.

Hefang Street

Browse traditional shopfronts and sample local snacks along this lively, restored pedestrian street near West Lake.

Qianjiang New Town Riverfront

Take an evening walk by the river to see modern architecture and colourful light displays along the waterfront.

Xixi National Wetland Park

Glide along waterways by boat or follow raised boardwalks through wetlands rich in seasonal birdlife and greenery.

Experience Hangzhou's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Hangzhou's metro and frequent buses link West Lake, business districts, and outlying neighbourhoods efficiently. Shared bicycles and lakeside rental bikes offer a scenic way to move at a slower pace, while taxis and ride-hailing apps help with the final stretch to your hotel or meeting.

Local life & culture
Daily life gathers around the lakefront promenades, neighbourhood squares, and smaller streets lined with teahouses and cafés. Creative parks in converted industrial areas showcase local design, art, and performance, giving you an insight into Hangzhou's mix of heritage, technology, and contemporary culture.

Where to unwind
Parks by West Lake, wooded hills, and the wetlands provide quiet corners to step away from the city. Early mornings are ideal for peaceful walks along the water, while late afternoons are perfect for sunset views from lakeside pavilions or hilltop viewpoints.

A taste of Hangzhou

Street food & local specialties
You will find many of Hangzhou's classic dishes in simple eateries and small side streets around West Lake and Hefang Street. Look out for neighbourhood restaurants where locals gather, and try a mix of comforting soups, braised dishes, and seasonal lake specialities.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping malls and new business districts host a wide choice of casual restaurants, from local flavours to wider Asian and international cuisines. Menus often feature shareable plates and smaller portions, making it easy to sample several dishes with friends, family, or colleagues.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, choose a dining room with views over West Lake, the riverside, or the surrounding hills. Many hotels and landmark buildings offer refined takes on regional cuisine, where thoughtful service and a considered setting turn dinner into an unhurried experience.

Retail therapy in Hangzhou

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres around Wulin Square, Qianjiang New Town, and other commercial areas bring together international labels, local designers, cinemas, and dining. These lifestyle hubs are comfortable places to spend an afternoon browsing, meeting friends, and taking a break indoors.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller streets and pedestrian areas such as Hefang Street and parts of the Grand Canal district are ideal for picking up locally made crafts, teas, and design pieces. Explore side lanes and courtyards to discover independent boutiques that highlight Hangzhou's creative side.

Evening retail scene
After dark, selected streets and riverfront areas light up with shops, cafés, and relaxed evening crowds. Some districts extend opening hours, making it easy to combine dinner with browsing. Reliable public transport and taxis help you return to your accommodation comfortably at the end of the night.

Best time to visit Hangzhou

Spring blossom season (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild temperatures of around 13–22°C (55–72°F), fresh greenery, and flowers around West Lake and the tea fields. It is a pleasant time for walking, boat trips, and exploring the city before the heat and humidity rise.

Summer lakeside season (June to September, peak season) is warm and humid, with typical temperatures between 24–33°C (75–91°F). Longer daylight hours and lush lake scenery make this a lively period, ideal for evening strolls, night cruises, and enjoying the city's illuminated skyline.

Autumn and winter calm (October to February, low season) see temperatures ranging from about 4–18°C (39–64°F). Cooler days bring clear views, quieter paths around West Lake, and a softer atmosphere in the tea hills, offering a slower, more reflective side to Hangzhou.

Frequently Asked Questions