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Picture of Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China

Travel Guide for
Hangzhou

China

Humid subtropical, four seasons

Introduction

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, is a vibrant city set beside the picturesque West Lake and surrounded by lush green hills. With roots dating back over 2,000 years, Hangzhou blends ancient pagodas and temples with modern cafés, coworking spaces, and a thriving tech scene—ideal for digital nomads.

In late September, mild temperatures (around 20-28°C) and lower rainfall offer pleasant weather for lakeside walks, cycling, and exploring historic tea villages. Affordable accommodation and reliable Wi-Fi make Hangzhou both accessible and comfortable for remote work, while its dynamic local culture and tasty cuisine provide plenty to discover after hours.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleDigital nomad

Dates20-27 September 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturenightlife and entertainmentoutdoor adventuresfestivals and eventsgastronomysightseeing and tours

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Picture of Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China

Key Facts

Location

East China, Zhejiang Province

Currency

Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)

Religion

Buddhism, Folk religions

Population

12,000,000

Language

Mandarin Chinese, Wu dialects

Electricity

220V, 50Hz, Type A/C/I plugs

Time zone

UTCChina Standard Time (UTC+8)

Country code

+86

Internet access

Widespread, fast, affordable broadband & 4G/5G

Climate

Humid subtropical, four seasons

See More China Facts

Language:

Chinese

  • hello

    你好 (nee how)
  • goodbye

    再见 (dzai-jyen)
  • yes

    (shir)
  • no

    不是 (boo shir)
  • how much

    这个多少钱? (juh-guh dwor-shaow chyen)
  • please

    (ching)
  • thank you

    谢谢 (shyeah-shyeah)
  • excuse me

    对不起 (dway-boo-chee)

Map

Logistics

Getting to Hangzhou is easy for digital nomads on a budget. Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport connects with major Chinese and a few international cities—budget airlines often offer good deals. High-speed trains from Shanghai, Suzhou, and other cities are fast and affordable, with frequent departures from Shanghai Hongqiao Station and typically taking under an hour.

Buses also link Hangzhou with neighboring provinces, though trains are more comfortable. Ride-sharing and public transport within the city are efficient and affordable. Around September 20-27, Hangzhou usually sees mild weather, but occasional rainfall is possible, so check forecasts and book accommodations/transport in advance due to the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Weather

Hangzhou has a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers (June–August) are hot and humid, while winters (December–February) tend to be chilly and damp. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for sightseeing and outdoor adventures like exploring West Lake or enjoying local festivals.

From September 20 to September 27, Hangzhou is usually in early autumn, characterized by comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and plenty of clear, pleasant days—perfect for night markets, cultural events, and scenic strolls. Although this period is generally stable, occasionally, remnants of typhoons can bring heavy rain, but extreme weather is rare.

Food & Drink

Hangzhou is renowned for its delicate, lightly seasoned Zhejiang cuisine. Signature dishes include West Lake Vinegar Fish, Dongpo Pork, and Longjing Shrimp, often paired with local Dragon Well (Longjing) tea. Street foods like scallion pancakes and xiaolongbao dumplings are must-tries for quick, budget-friendly bites.

For dining, locals recommend Lou Wai Lou near West Lake, Grandma’s Home (Wai Po Jia) for affordable local fare, and Zhi Wei Guan for classic snacks. Hangzhou also has cozy cafes like Maan Coffee and stylish bars in the Hubin area. Tipping isn’t customary in China; service charges are typically included in the bill.

Vegetarians will find options, but it’s best to communicate your needs clearly. Hangzhou’s culinary scene balances tradition and modernity, offering digital nomads plenty of tasty and WiFi-friendly places to work and eat.

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Xiaolongbao

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Kung Pao Chicken

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Accommodation

For digital nomads visiting Hangzhou, the areas near West Lake—such as Shangcheng and Xihu districts—offer a great mix of comfort and convenience, with easy access to cafes and coworking spaces. Notable mid-range hotels like Midtown Shangri-La, Courtyard by Marriott, and the SSAW Boutique Hotel are favorites for their reliable Wi-Fi and thoughtful amenities.

Nearby, the Binjiang and Qianjiang New Town areas also offer well-equipped hotels with business facilities, modern decor, and easy metro access. Consider booking via Agoda, Booking.com, or Trip.com for the best deals and flexible cancellation policies. September is popular for travel, so book early to secure the best rooms and rates.

Itinerary

Acclimate to Hangzhou’s pace by exploring the vibrant city center, soaking in first impressions of its cultural energy, and tasting signature local cuisine.

Stroll Along Hubin Pedestrian Street

Begin your Hangzhou journey with a leisurely stroll through Hubin Pedestrian Street, a lively city-center hotspot lined with chic boutiques, cafes, and public art. This area is perfect for soaking in Hangzhou’s modern energy while people-watching and picking up local essentials.

West Lake Sunset at Broken Bridge

Catch your first magical sunset at the famous Broken Bridge on West Lake. This iconic spot offers panoramic views across the lake, especially at dusk, and is a perfect way to take in Hangzhou’s scenic beauty right after you arrive.

Flexible Hangzhou Private Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train

Flexible Hangzhou Private Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the famous Paradise City of Hangzhou on a fully customized sightseeing day trip from Shanghai by bullet train. Accompanied by your private guide, stroll around Flower Harbor Park and take a relaxing boat on the West Lake. Visit the famous Lingyin temple; see the traditional Meijiawu tea mountain; and wonder along the old Hefang Street. Local lunch, tea tasting at Meijiawu, round-trip bullet train tickets, a private guide, and private vehicle service are included if you book the all-inclusive package.

5.0 (194 reviews)

From $276 USD

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Attractions

5.0 (8 reviews)
Hangzhou Private Flexible Day Tour with West Lake Boat Cruise

Hangzhou Private Flexible Day Tour with West Lake Boat Cruise

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Enjoy this full day 8-hour private Hangzhou city sightseeing tour with a local expert guide. Spend some quality time visit the city’s top attractions inline with your own styles. Cruise around the UNESCO West Lake, one of the China’s famed natural wonders, appreciate the charming scenery along the lake. Visit the impressive stone Buddha Grottos in Fei Lai Peak, admire the Grand Lingyin Buddhist temple while visiting different sections of the area. Sample some famed green tea and freshly prepared home dish at the local tea farmer’s house while enjoying the amazing view of the green tea terrace and countryside scenery. Customizable itinerary catering to your own preferences, enjoy convenient and comfortable door to door transfer from Hangzhou hotel or Hangzhou Train Station.

From $150 USD

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5.0 (44 reviews)
Half-Day Flexible Private Hangzhou Highlight Tour

Half-Day Flexible Private Hangzhou Highlight Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Choose two or three of Hangzhou’s top attractions based on your personal preferences during this flexible 4-hour private tour. Whether you want to explore West Lake, visit Lingyin Temple, stroll through Longjing Tea Fields, or wander along the historic Hefang Street, your private guide will tailor the experience just for you. You can also follow a suggested itinerary if you prefer. Upgrade to the all-inclusive package to enjoy a seamless experience with your guide, private car, and entrance tickets to attractions like Lingyin Temple included

From $146 USD

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4.3 (3 reviews)
Songcheng Park & Lengend of Song Dynasty Show Ticket

Songcheng Park & Lengend of Song Dynasty Show Ticket

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

"The Romance Of The Song Dynasty" is a performance you must not miss in Hangzhou. Being in Songcheng is like another generation. Give me a day and pay you back for a thousand years! 1. Opening hours: Songcheng Park: 9: 00-21: 00 The Romance Of The Song Dynasty Show: 14:00, 19:20 2. Please collect the ticket at least 30 minutes before the performance 3. Ticket collection address: Songcheng Park Electronic Ticket Exchange Window (East Gate / North Gate) (Please exchange the voucher (Which we're going to send you after the reservation) for park admission tickets and performance paper tickets) (Chinese Name of Song Chen: 宋城 ) 4. Please bring the original passport to the ticket exchange window for ticket exchange. 5. Free Admission: Children under 6 years of age (excluding 6) or height of 1.2m (excluding 1.2m) (Children can watch the performance, but cannot occupy seats)

From $100 USD

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5.0 (4 reviews)
Wuzhen Classical Water Town day tour

Wuzhen Classical Water Town day tour

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

80km away from Hangzhou, there is an ancient water town called Wuzhen, with 600 years old history, most of her buildings are well preserved from 150-200 years ago, it is also one of the rare place that real local people are still living inside. You may walk through those zigzag alleys or take the rowing boat enjoying this oriental Venice. During the visit, we will show you all the attractions listed below: 1.Fortune Bay High Rod Boat Show 2.Martial Art Performance on Boat 3.Wine Distillery Workshop, the sweet wine inside is very delicious, can taste free. 4.Indigo Fabric Workshop 5. Folk Custom Museum 6. Antique Beds Museum After the tour, lunch will be arranged at an authentic local restaurant where you will try the real local water town delicacy.

From $127 USD

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5.0 (12 reviews)
Bruce Lee Hometown Martial Art Culture Lion Dance Private Tour

Bruce Lee Hometown Martial Art Culture Lion Dance Private Tour

MANUAL

This day trip tour(with hotel pick up and drop off in downtown Guangzhou) will let you explore Foshan city, the hometown of Bruce Lee, which is around 1.5 hours driving to the west of Guangzhou. Here's what you can do in this tour: 1) Visit the museum of Ip-man, the master of Bruce Lee, get an idea of how Foshan city fostered many Kungfu stars and their life, history and influence to the world; 2) Watch the Kungfu show by professional masters and apprentices from martial art school; 3) Watch the traditional Chinese culture-Lion Dance by professional performers; 4) Lunch at a local restaurant to try the delicious Foshan cuisine; 5) Visit ancient Chinese classic garden to enjoy the beautiful green landscape by specially planted trees as well as southern Chinese style architecture; 6) Visit Nanfeng Ancient Kiln to learn about the ceramic/porcelain production culture, history and handcraft art. Knowledgeable local English speaking guide and a private car with driver ensure a smooth tour

From $220 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Private Flexible Hangzhou Layover Tour in Your Way

Private Flexible Hangzhou Layover Tour in Your Way

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Maximize your short layover or transit in Hangzhou by taking this fully guided private tour to explore the “ Paradise City” Hangzhou. Tick off the city’s amazing sites include the UNSECO listed West Lake, Famed Dragon Well Tea Village, Historic Lingyin Buddhist Temple. Stroll along the ancient Hefang Pedestrian street, with flexible itinerary that catering to time and interests. With 1-way or round-trip airport transfers available to choose during the tour.

From $136 USD

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5.0 (23 reviews)
Big Buddha Mountain Martial Art Culture Countryside Private Tour

Big Buddha Mountain Martial Art Culture Countryside Private Tour

MANUAL

This flexible private day tour from Guangzhou will let you explore Foshan area(hometown of Bruce Lee), immerse in the beautiful landscape in the countryside and escape the bustle city. Big Buddha Mountain is entitled one of the "National Top Level Scenery" and has gained reputation from home and abroad for its primitive forest, natural waterfalls, sky lake(formed from ancient volcano crater), ancient villages as well as the big Buddha temple. As per your interest, you can also visit one or two more sties nearby to compose a full day trip: 1) Watch Kung-Fu & traditional Chinese lion dance at Martial Art Museum. 2) Take a ferry to Pingsha island and cycle around to observe local village/farmland/orchard. 3) National Arts Studio, royal palace replica and ancient street with traditional architecture for films/television making. 4) Visit mulberry fish pond farm area to learn about recyclable mutual beneficial ecological system. 5) Guangdong Romance Park for Cantonese local culture.

From $255 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Xiqiao Mountain and Martial Arts Culture Privat Day Tour from Guangzhou

Xiqiao Mountain and Martial Arts Culture Privat Day Tour from Guangzhou

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a nice gateway to Foshan from Guangzhou on this exclusive private day tour. Visit famous National forest Park Xiqiao Mountain, rated as the National 5A attractions and one of the four top mountains in Guangdong. Originated from an extinct ancient volcano that created its natural masterpieces include spectacular waterfalls, lakes, hollows, cliffs. Admire the Grand Statue of Gunyin from Chinese Buddhism while appreciate the picturesque view of the area. In addition, pay a visit to Martia Arts museum of Hung Fei Hong and enjoy a fun and live Lion Dragon dance and Kongfu show known to the area. Travel with your own local expert guide get a great overview of the custom, culture and history.

From $167 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
Hangzhou West Lake and Tea Plantation Half Day Tour

Hangzhou West Lake and Tea Plantation Half Day Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Visit the stunning city of Hangzhou during this scenic day trip, with private pickup from your hotel or train station. Perfect for travelers short on time, it covers all of the highlights in a single excursion. Glide across serene, UNESCO-listed West Lake on an iconic boat ride, learn the ins and outs of tea cultivating and tasting at Meijiawu Tea Village, and shop for antique embroidery along the centuries-old Southern Song Imperial Street. If you'd like, enjoy a homecooked lunch at a local farmer's home (at your own expense) \ ~An in-depth, half-day tour of Hangzhou, with private hotel or train station pickup ~Cover the city’s top highlights in a single visit, perfect for travelers short on time ~Get the best views of traditional pagodas and arched bridges on a scenic boat ride ~Learn how tea is picked and processed, and get a taste of China’s finest brews

From $170 USD

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