Flights from Johannesburg (JNB) to Hangzhou (HGH)

About Hangzhou

Discover Hangzhou

Why visit Hangzhou?
Hangzhou is known for its poetic landscapes, centred on the tranquil West Lake, tea-covered hills, and elegant classical gardens. You will find a city that balances scenic beauty with a dynamic urban core, where historic streets and leafy promenades sit alongside contemporary towers.

What to expect
The city stretches from the shores of West Lake to new districts along the Qiantang River, with wide boulevards, orderly neighbourhoods, and a growing tech and design scene. Tree-lined streets, waterfront paths, and compact historic quarters make it easy to explore on foot while still enjoying the efficiency of a major Chinese city.

Plan your trip
Hangzhou works well as both a stand-alone destination and a base for exploring the wider Zhejiang region. Fast rail links connect you to nearby cities, while local excursions to tea villages and surrounding hills offer an easy escape into nature during your stay.

Top sights in Hangzhou

West Lake

Stroll or cycle around this iconic lake to enjoy classic bridges, willow-lined paths, and framed views of distant hills.

Leifeng Pagoda

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

Hefang Street

Walk this preserved historic street lined with traditional façades, local snacks, and souvenir shops in the city centre.

Longjing tea villages

Head into the nearby hills to see terraced tea fields, learn about tea production, and enjoy fresh brews at source.

Xixi National Wetland Park

Explore waterways, boardwalks, and island paths in this large urban wetland, a relaxing contrast to downtown streets.

Grand Canal district

Discover warehouses, museums, and waterfront walks along the Hangzhou section of the historic Grand Canal.

Qiantang Riverside

Enjoy modern riverfront promenades, night lights, and open views across the wide Qiantang River in the new business districts.

Experience Hangzhou's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Hangzhou has an extensive metro network that connects the lake, railway stations, and newer riverside districts efficiently. Buses and taxis fill the gaps, while shared bikes are a scenic way to move around West Lake and nearby parks. For short hops, walking is often the most pleasant option.

Local life & culture
Around West Lake and Hefang Street you can observe everyday city life unfolding in parks, waterfront promenades, and side streets. Creative districts and university areas bring a younger energy, with small galleries and studios appearing in converted spaces, while residential neighbourhoods maintain a slower, community-focused pace.

Where to unwind
Parks around West Lake, Xixi National Wetland Park, and the tea-growing hills provide calm green spaces to unwind away from busy roads. Early mornings are especially peaceful for lakeside walks, while evenings bring cooler air and gentle lighting along the water, making them ideal for relaxed strolls or quiet reflection.

A taste of Hangzhou

Street food & local specialties
You can sample classic regional dishes at small eateries and casual restaurants near West Lake, Hefang Street, and in older neighbourhood lanes. Local cuisine is known for delicate flavours and seasonal ingredients, making it easy to try a range of simple, comforting plates in one meal.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping centres and newer commercial districts host a wide choice of local and international dining, from noodle bars to contemporary cafés. Menus often feature smaller plates and sharing options, so you can taste several different dishes and styles during one relaxed lunch or dinner.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, choose venues overlooking West Lake, riverside restaurants along the Qiantang, or refined spots in restored historic buildings. These settings combine thoughtful cooking with expansive views or atmospheric interiors, turning an ordinary dinner into a highlight of your visit.

Retail therapy in Hangzhou

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern malls in the city centre and riverside business districts bring together international brands, local labels, cinemas, and indoor entertainment. These complexes offer air-conditioned comfort, clear wayfinding, and convenient dining, so you can combine shopping with a relaxed break in the same place.

Markets & local crafts
For smaller shops and locally made items, explore streets around Hefang Street, the Grand Canal area, and older neighbourhood lanes. Here you will find boutiques and stalls with craft souvenirs, design-forward pieces, and everyday goods that reflect Hangzhou's blend of tradition and modernity.

Evening retail scene
After dark, main commercial streets and mall-lined boulevards stay lively with illuminated façades and extended trading hours. Pedestrian-friendly zones become pleasant for window-shopping and unhurried browsing, and frequent metro services and taxis make it straightforward to reach your hotel when you are ready to return.

Best time to visit Hangzhou

Spring season (chun)
From March to May, Hangzhou enjoys mild temperatures of around 15–22°C (59–72°F), fresh greenery, and blossoming trees around West Lake. This shoulder season is ideal for relaxed walks, boat rides on calm days, and visits to nearby tea fields as new leaves appear.

Summer season (xia tian)
June to August is warm and humid, with temperatures often between 26–33°C (79–91°F) and long daylight hours. This peak season brings a lively atmosphere on lakeside promenades, with evening breezes and illuminated views making night-time strolls especially pleasant.

Autumn and winter season (qiu dong)
From September to February, temperatures range from about 6–20°C (43–68°F), with crisper air and clearer skies in autumn, and cooler, quieter days in winter. This low season offers calmer attractions, atmospheric misty lake views, and comfortable conditions for city walks with fewer crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions