Hangzhou China – Top-10 Tourist Attractions
The capital of Zhejiang province is situated in East China, between Shanghai and Ningbo. Hangzhou is known for its traditional attractions (there are loads of temples and museums), as well as its natural sights. The massive West Lake (UNESCO World Heritage Sight) is Hangzhou’s biggest tourist attraction. The city is sleek and modern while retaining its extensive history and culture.
Here are 10 of the cities best tourist sights:
10. Former Residence of Hu Xueyan
20 RMB for adults, free for young children& elderly
Come here if you’re into architecture! Hu Xueyan was a remarkable businessman who completed the building of his opulent quarters in 1875 (Qing dynasty). The garden is seen as a flawless projection of traditional Chinese landscaping.
The house was said to cost more than 50,000 taels of silver- 100 million RMB! It was worth it, because the residence is truly stunning. Come here to see beautiful rockeries, pavilions, terraces, with a quietly bubbling stream running through.
Whilst boasting traditional Chinese architecture, elements of western influence can also be seen, and his house is known for it’s stylish blend of Eastern and Western architecture.
When?
8:00-17:30
9. Running Tiger Spring
15 RMB
This is the third best spring in China with regards to water quality! Go and see the magnificent fountain, which has been the inspiration of numerous poems by famous Chinese writers young and old. After a feast for the eyes, enjoy a feast for the taste buds when you taste the delicate Lonjing tea that’s made from it’s waters.
Situated inside the Tiger Running Spring Forest Park, at the foot Daci Hill, it’s the perfect place for those who like to be outside. There’s also the Pupao Temple, and a giant teapot!
We found this to a welcome break from the bustling city.
When?
6:00-18:00. In summer go early morning or late afternoon because it gets hot.
8. China National Silk Museum
Free!
On the south bank of the popular West Lake is the first of it’s kind in the country and the biggest in the world.
Start off at the Silk Road Gallery, where you can immerse yourself in China’s famous silk culture, and the history of the silk road. Visitors can see ancient silk relics that were discovered on Chia’s silk road, some are over 5000 years old!
Move on to the fashion gallery-see the silk costumes of both Chinese and western varieties. The “Imperial Robe” shows us an impressive example of the west’s influence on Chinese dress. Go to the weaving gallery to learn more about how to dye and weave silk, and even try do it for yourself. We liked this attraction because silk is synonymous with Chinese culture, so it’s a must-see.
When?
Tuesday-Sunday 9:00-17:00; Monday 12:00-17:00
7. Leifeng Pagoda
40 RMB for adults, children free
Also on West Lake, this is the oldest bronze pagoda in China. Go to the very top, and drink in the stunning views of West Lake and the Jingci Temple (go at sunset for the best photos).
The pagoda holds a special place in the hearts of Chinese because it’s linked to a heart-warming love story between a man and a snake. The snake took the form of a beautiful woman, and during a visit a rainy visit to West lake, the man lent her his umbrella. They were married soon after, and overcame the attempts of an evil monk to thwart their love.
When?
8:00-17:00
6. Xixi Wetland Park
80 RMB for adults, 40 for children
We loved this place because of its uniqueness – it’s a stunning green park in the midst of the city. Not only is its ecology awe inspiring, it offers something for those interested in culture too.
There is tons to see here- three lovely causeways surrounded by huge trees, with various walkways and bridges. Also make sure you see the Lotus Flower Eco- Reserve area, Hong’s Villa, and Zhoujiacun Village. We recommend taking a tour to see it all-it’s about 3 hours long.
Make sure you don’t get lost- the meandering walkways can be quite confusing. Go early to avoid summer heat.
When?
8:00-18:30
5. Lingyin Temple
30-45RMB
It’s in the top ten of China’s Buddhist Temples, and is an important site for research into Chinese Buddhist Culture. It’s history stretches all the way back to 317 AD and it’s an important piece of Hangzhou’s culture.
The first thing we noticed when we entered was a stone tablet bearing the words of Emperor Kangxi from the Qing dynasty. Then onto the “Hall of the Heavenly Kings”, a massive 60 feet tall! The hall is intricately decorated with paintings of dragons and phoenixes.
Walk through to see the huge laughing Buddha statue (Maitreya), as well as more beautifully decorated halls.
When?
7:00-18:15
4. Wuzhen Water Town
120 RMB
We liked Wuzhen because it’s really close to Hangzhou’s centre (45 minute bus). It constitutes one of six renowned water towns south of the Yangtze River. We recommend a visit to the western side (the Eastern side is usually incredibly busy), this area being less busy and more serene. Over the years it’s been renovated extensively but fear not- none of the ancient charm of the town has been lost and it offers a truly charming experience.
Marvel at a firefly aviary, a wooden irrigation system and ancient bridges across the meandering river.
When?
9:00-22:00
3. Zhejiang Art Museum
Free entrance!
For the culture fans, visit this for an insight into China’s arts scene. The museum showcases calligraphy, painting, folklore artworks and sculptures of all kinds. Explore China’s extensive cultural heritage through their stunning art, at the same time ogle more futuristic contemporary pieces. We suggest you take a few hours to explore everything- it’s located in a beautiful setting- walk the tree lined streets or hike the green mountains.
We particularly loved the oil paintings- China has enough marvellous natural landscape from which to draw inspiration. Throughout the year the museum offers various exhibitions, like the Fujian exhibition-go there to see artworks created by artists from that province alone.
For the kids, there’s a media centre- go there for a more interactive, exciting display.
When?
Tuesday-Sunday 9:00-17:00.
2. Tomb of General Yue Fei
Free for young children, 25RMB for adults
One of Hangzhou’s top tourist attractions, it’s a grave built in honour of the great general who fought successful wars during the Song Dynasty. Under his lead, he won successive wars against the Jin. Their victories were undermined by an evil prime minister, leading to their surrender and Yue’s eventual death.
To make things right, the new emperor chose to build a tomb in the national hero’s honour. See The Shrine of Remembrance, a sculpture and the tomb itself.
You can also see the tombs of his sons, who fought in the war like him. Beautiful stone horses, tigers and sheep line the tombs. This is a must-see attraction (if anything, for the awesome story).
When?
7:30-17:30
1. Longjing Tea Village
Free entrance!
This charming village enclosed by green hills is located south-east of West Lake. Its tea is one of the reasons Hangzhou is internationally renowned. Drive past steep tea terraces on your way to taste of China’s top ten best teas.
Visitors come from afar to taste the smooth, refreshing beverage.
Watch the locals pick tea, or go to the garden and see a giant teapot.
Once inside, go see the Longjing (Dragon Well). The waters from this well are used to irrigate the green leaves the area is famous for.
Spend some time there- walk around and explore the three peaks. It’s great for families, and offers natural as well as cultural attractions .
When?
8:30-17:00
