Hangzhou China 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Explore the West Lake

  • Accommodation: Stay at The Westin Hangzhou or similar, conveniently located near the West Lake.
  • Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Chinese breakfast at Ming Yue Guan, known for its local dishes and tea sets.

Activities:

  1. Visit West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy a leisurely boat ride.
  2. Explore Lingyin Temple, one of the largest and wealthiest Buddhist temples in China, nestled among the hills west of the West Lake.
  3. Stroll through Leifeng Pagoda with a history dating back over 16 centuries.
  • Lunch: Savor some local dishes at Hangzhou Lao Canting in the Xihu district.
  • Dinner: Dine at Hefang Street, a pedestrian street offering various Hangzhou delicacies like Dragon Well Tea (Longjing Cha) and Dongpo Pork (Dongpo Rou).

Day 2: Xixi National Wetland Park & Qiantang River

  • Breakfast: Grab a quick bite at your hotel or explore local eateries around the area.

Activities:

  1. Visit Xixi National Wetland Park, known as Hangzhou’s “Venice.” Take a boat tour and spot various bird species.
  2. Explore the historic Qiantang River and witness the world-famous tidal bore (seiche) if your visit coincides with high tide during the daytime.
  3. Stroll around Zhongshan Park and enjoy local street food at night.
  • Dinner: Dine at Xiao Wei Jie, a popular eatery specializing in Hangzhou snacks like smoked fish and pickled vegetables.

Day 3: Liuhe Pagoda & Xixi Museum

  • Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or explore local eateries around the area.

Activities:

  1. Head to Liuhe Pagoda, an iconic 10-story pagoda in the heart of Hangzhou, offering panoramic views of the city.
  2. Visit the Xixi Museum, showcasing exhibitions about the Xixi National Wetland Park’s ecology and history.
  3. Relax at Six Harmonies Pagoda and take in breathtaking views of the Qiantang River.
  • Lunch: Have lunch at a local restaurant like Xiao Wei Jie or try some street food from vendors along the streets near Six Harmonies Pagoda.
  • Dinner: Dine at Cuiwei Lou for authentic Hangzhou cuisine with a modern twist.

Day 4: Wuzhen Water Town

  • Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or explore local eateries around the area.

Activities:

  1. Take a day trip to Wuzhen Water Town, an ancient town filled with traditional Chinese architecture, canals, and bridges.
  2. Explore Ancient Street for souvenirs, local snacks, and cultural performances.
  3. Visit the China Silk Museum in Wuzhen to learn about China’s silk history.

Day 5: Departure

  • Breakfast: Enjoy your final breakfast in Hangzhou before checking out of your hotel.
  • Activities: Spend your last hours exploring any remaining attractions or shopping for souvenirs.
  • Transportation: Organize transportation to the airport based on your flight schedule. Make sure to leave enough time for check-in and security procedures.