Flights from South Africa to Hangzhou (HGH)

Discover Hangzhou

Discover Hangzhou

Why visit Hangzhou?

Hangzhou blends calm lakeside scenery with a dynamic modern city. You experience graceful gardens, waterways, and tea fields sitting alongside lively districts and contemporary architecture.

What to expect

You find tree-lined boulevards, historic temples, and quiet canals, set next to sleek shopping areas and tech hubs. Compact central neighbourhoods make it easy to explore by foot or public transport.

Plan your trip

Hangzhou works well as a stand-alone city break or as a starting point to explore nearby Shanghai and eastern China. Allow at least three days to enjoy the lakeside sights, tea villages, and urban neighbourhoods.

Top sights in Hangzhou

West Lake

Stroll or cycle around this UNESCO-listed lake, where causeways, pavilions, and small islands frame changing views of water, hills, and the city skyline.

Lingyin Temple and Feilai Peak

Explore one of Hangzhou’s most important temple complexes, then wander the nearby limestone grottoes carved with centuries-old stone figures.

Longjing tea plantations

Head into the hills to walk through neat rows of tea bushes, watch local tea production, and enjoy fresh brews overlooking the valley.

Grand Canal

Take a cruise or riverside walk along this historic waterway, passing old warehouses, bridges, and revitalised waterfront districts.

Hefang Street

Browse traditional shopfronts, snack stalls, and heritage buildings on this pedestrian street that captures the feel of old Hangzhou.

Xixi National Wetland Park

Glide along quiet waterways by boat or follow boardwalks through reeds and ponds in this peaceful wetland on the edge of the city.

Leifeng Pagoda

Climb or ride the lift to this hilltop pagoda for wide views of West Lake, the city, and distant mountains, especially dramatic at sunset.

Experience Hangzhou’s everyday rhythm

Getting around

Use the metro and buses to move efficiently between West Lake, the city centre, and outlying districts, then switch to taxis or ride-hailing for late-night journeys or hilly areas. Lakeside bike and e-scooter rentals offer a scenic way to cover shorter distances.

Local life & culture

You see residents practising morning exercises by the lake, playing chess in parks, and gathering in tea houses to socialise. Creative districts and restored historic streets showcase a mix of traditional crafts, design studios, and small galleries.

Where to unwind

Unwind with a slow walk along West Lake’s causeways at sunrise or dusk, when the light is soft and the paths are quieter. Escape to tea villages or Xixi National Wetland Park for fresh air, greenery, and calm water views.

A taste of Hangzhou

Street food & local specialties

Sample Hangzhou classics such as lake fish and seasonal snacks in streets around Hefang Street and the Grand Canal, where small eateries and stalls cluster together.

Casual & modern dining hubs

Head to central malls and new business districts for convenient restaurants offering everything from local favourites to Asian and Western cuisines, with smaller portions and shared plates that let you try a variety of dishes.

Signature & scenic dining

Choose a restaurant overlooking West Lake or a hillside tea house for memorable views with your meal, or dine in sleek city-centre venues that frame the skyline after dark.

Retail therapy in Hangzhou

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Large shopping centres in the city core bring together international brands, local designers, cinemas, and cafés, creating easy one-stop spots for browsing and meeting friends.

Markets & local crafts

Explore streets near Hefang Street, the Grand Canal, and traditional neighbourhoods for silk items, tea, fans, and handicrafts produced by regional makers.

Evening retail scene

After dark, illuminated streets and late-opening malls give the shopping districts a lively feel, and you can reach these areas quickly using the metro or short taxi rides.

Best time to visit Hangzhou

Spring (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild weather around 15–22°C (59–72°F), blooming flowers, and comfortable walking conditions around West Lake. Summer (June to September, peak season) is warm and humid, with temperatures often between 26–33°C (79–91°F) and occasional rain showers. Autumn (October to November, shoulder season) is generally clear and dry, with fresh air and temperatures of about 15–23°C (59–73°F), ideal for exploring tea fields and city parks. Winter (December to February, low season) can be cold and damp, with temperatures around 4–10°C (39–50°F), quieter attractions, and a more relaxed pace.

Frequently Asked Questions