Flights from Chengdu (TFU) to Hangzhou (HGH)

About Hangzhou

Discover Hangzhou

Why visit Hangzhou?
Hangzhou is known for its poetic landscapes, centred on the tranquil waters of West Lake and the rolling green tea fields that surround the city. You will find a relaxed yet modern atmosphere, where lakeside promenades sit alongside creative districts and contemporary architecture.

What to expect
The city combines scenic beauty with a dynamic urban core, including busy shopping streets, technology parks, and leafy residential neighbourhoods. Lakeside walks, boat rides, and tea village visits are complemented by stylish cafés, museums, and performance venues that give Hangzhou a distinctive cultural flair.

Plan your trip
Hangzhou works well as both a short city break and part of a longer journey through eastern China. Its excellent high-speed rail links and efficient metro system make it a convenient base for exploring nearby cities and countryside, while its calm lakefront areas offer a restful end to a wider itinerary.

Top sights in Hangzhou

West Lake

Stroll or cruise around this iconic lake to enjoy willow-lined shores, classical bridges, and peaceful island views at any time of day.

Leifeng Pagoda

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

Lingyin scenic area

Explore forested hills, dramatic rock formations, and atmospheric pathways that reveal Hangzhou’s rich heritage and natural charm.

Longjing tea villages

Visit terraced tea fields on the city’s outskirts to learn about tea cultivation and enjoy fresh brews overlooking the valleys.

Grand Canal Hangzhou section

Walk or cycle along restored canal banks, where old warehouses now house cafés, galleries, and riverside promenades.

Qianjiang New Town riverside

Take in modern architecture and illuminated river views along this revitalised waterfront district, especially striking after sunset.

Hefang Street

Wander this lively historic street lined with traditional façades, where you can browse for snacks, crafts, and local souvenirs.

Xixi Wetland Park

Glide along waterways by boat or follow wooden boardwalks through one of China’s best-known urban wetland reserves.

Experience Hangzhou’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Hangzhou’s metro and extensive bus network make it simple to move between the lake, city centre, and newer districts. Bicycles and shared bikes are popular for circling West Lake at a leisurely pace, while taxis and ride-hailing apps work well for late-evening journeys back to your hotel.

Local life & culture
Around West Lake, you will see residents enjoying morning walks, tai chi sessions, and relaxed conversations on lakeside benches. Creative quarters and riverside developments showcase galleries, small studios, and performance venues, giving insight into the city’s blend of tradition and innovation.

Where to unwind
When you need a pause, the lakefront parks and tea houses around Longjing offer quiet corners to sit and take in the scenery. Xixi Wetland Park and green belts along the river provide gentle walking routes, especially pleasant in the early morning or just before dusk.

A taste of Hangzhou

Street food & local specialties
Hangzhou is known for light, delicate flavours that highlight fresh river produce and seasonal vegetables. Around Hefang Street, neighbourhood markets, and smaller side streets, you can sample snacks and classic local dishes prepared in open kitchens and busy stalls.

Casual & modern dining hubs
In shopping malls and new business districts, you will find a wide choice of Chinese regional cuisines and international flavours. Many venues serve smaller sharing plates, making it easy to try several dishes in one meal when travelling with family or friends.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, consider restaurants overlooking West Lake, where large windows frame views of the water and distant hills. In newer riverside districts, stylish dining rooms and lounges pair city views with thoughtful menus for relaxed evenings.

Retail therapy in Hangzhou

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central Hangzhou offers several large shopping centres that bring together international fashion, lifestyle brands, cinemas, and casual dining. These complexes often double as social spaces, with open atriums and seasonal events creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day.

Markets & local crafts
For smaller shops and locally made items, explore streets around Hefang Street, Wushan Square, and parts of the Grand Canal area. Here you can discover craft studios, tea shops, and boutiques selling textiles, ceramics, and design-led souvenirs unique to the region.

Evening retail scene
As night falls, illuminated shopping streets and riverside promenades invite slow walks between stores, cafés, and dessert shops. Well-connected metro lines and taxis make these areas easy to reach and return from, even after a late evening of browsing.

Best time to visit Hangzhou

Spring bloom (March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Hangzhou is mild, with average temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F) and fresh greenery around West Lake and the tea fields. Occasional light rain adds a soft mist to the scenery, and it is a lovely time for walking and boating.

Summer warmth (June to September, peak season)
Summer brings warm to hot days, averaging 26–32°C (79–90°F), with lush foliage and long daylight hours. While some days can feel humid, early mornings and evenings are ideal for lakefront strolls, and many indoor attractions provide comfortable spaces to cool down.

Autumn calm (October to November, shoulder season)
Autumn tends to be pleasantly cool, with temperatures around 15–23°C (59–73°F) and generally clear skies. The changing leaves around parks and hillsides create a gentle, colourful backdrop, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities and photography.

Winter quiet (December to February, low season)
Winters are usually cold but manageable, with averages of 4–10°C (39–50°F) and a calm, slower-paced feel around the city. Misty lake views and quieter streets give Hangzhou a tranquil charm, and indoor galleries, teahouses, and malls offer warm retreats.

Frequently Asked Questions