Flights from Adelaide (ADL) to Hangzhou (HGH)

About Hangzhou

Discover Hangzhou

Why visit Hangzhou?
Hangzhou is known for its poetic landscapes, centred on the serene West Lake and lush green hills. You will find a blend of classical gardens, elegant lakeside promenades, and modern city districts, creating an atmosphere that feels both calm and cosmopolitan.

What to expect
The city combines leafy boulevards and waterfront paths with lively commercial streets and contemporary skyscrapers. Historic teahouses, leafy parks, and scenic viewpoints sit alongside creative districts and high-tech zones, giving you many ways to experience Hangzhou in a single stay.

Plan your trip
Hangzhou works well as both a short break and a base for exploring the wider Zhejiang region. High-speed rail and road links connect you to nearby cities, while its compact core makes it easy to focus on the lake, hills, and old streets if you have just a few days.

Top sights in Hangzhou

West Lake

Stroll, cycle, or cruise around this iconic lake, dotted with causeways, islands, and classic pavilions framed by willow trees.

Leifeng Pagoda

Climb or take the lift up this landmark tower for panoramic views over West Lake and the surrounding city skyline.

Hefang Street

Explore this atmospheric old street lined with traditional architecture, snack stalls, and shops selling local handicrafts.

Longjing Tea Plantations

Wander through terraced tea fields in the hills above the city and learn about Hangzhou’s famous Longjing green tea.

Xixi National Wetland Park

Glide along narrow waterways by boat and follow boardwalks through a peaceful wetland landscape on the edge of the city.

Grand Canal Hangzhou section

Discover historic warehouses, museums, and waterside paths along the southern end of the ancient Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal.

Hangzhou Botanical Garden

Enjoy quiet walking trails, seasonal flowers, and shaded lawns in this expansive green space near West Lake.

Qiantang Riverfront

Head to the modern riverfront districts for evening walks, illuminated bridges, and views of Hangzhou’s contemporary skyline.

Experience Hangzhou’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Hangzhou’s metro network is the easiest way to move between major districts, stations, and transport hubs. Buses and taxis fill in the gaps, while shared bikes are ideal for scenic rides around West Lake. Keep a navigation app handy to plan transfers in real time.

Local life & culture
Along the lakeside paths and in neighbourhood parks, you will see residents enjoying relaxed walks, dancing, and outdoor exercise. Creative districts feature galleries, design studios, and intimate performance spaces, while busy commercial streets show a faster-paced, modern side of the city.

Where to unwind
Green spaces around West Lake and in the surrounding hills provide plenty of quiet corners for a break from city life. Early mornings are peaceful on the lakeside promenades, while late afternoons are ideal for hilltop viewpoints. Wetland parks and riverside paths offer cooler retreats on warmer days.

A taste of Hangzhou

Street food & local specialties
You can sample classic Hangzhou flavours at small eateries and street-side stalls near Hefang Street and around West Lake. Look out for delicate river fish dishes, seasonal vegetable plates, and snacks that showcase the region’s light, refined cooking style.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping malls and new commercial districts offer an easy mix of local restaurants and international chains. Menus often feature sharing plates and modest portions, which makes it simple to try several dishes in one meal and explore different regional cuisines in a single evening.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, choose a restaurant overlooking West Lake or set among the tea fields in the hills. Lakeside terraces and rooftop venues combine elegant dining rooms with far-reaching views, turning a simple dinner into a relaxed, scenic experience.

Retail therapy in Hangzhou

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central Hangzhou is home to modern shopping centres where you will find international labels, local designers, cinemas, and family-friendly entertainment. These malls are designed as social spaces, so it is easy to combine shopping with dining and a relaxed afternoon indoors.

Markets & local crafts
For more characterful browsing, head to historic streets and smaller neighbourhood lanes around the old town. Here you can look for handmade crafts, tea, textiles, and design pieces, especially in districts known for traditional architecture and creative studios.

Evening retail scene
After dark, many central shopping streets glow with colourful lighting and stay active well into the evening. Night-time promenades combine browsing with people-watching, and public transport makes it straightforward to return to your hotel once you have finished exploring.

Best time to visit Hangzhou

Spring blossom season (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild days of around 15–22°C (59–72°F), with fresh greenery and flowers around West Lake and in the tea hills. It is a pleasant time for walking, light layers, and sightseeing in the parks and gardens.

Summer lake season (June to September, peak season) is warm and humid, with temperatures around 26–32°C (79–90°F). Lotus flowers bloom on the lake, evenings feel lively along the waterfront, and longer daylight hours give you more time for cruises and riverside walks.

Autumn and winter calm (October to February, low season) offers cooler conditions from about 6–18°C (43–64°F), with crisp air and quieter paths. Autumn foliage colours the hillsides, and winter days provide clear views across the water, making this a peaceful period for slower travel.

Frequently Asked Questions