https://nz.trip.com/moments/detail/hangzhou-14-127983829?locale=en-NZ
Samuel SmithUnited States

I just got back from Hangzhou, and I don't recommend going in January

Hey guys! 👫 As a travel enthusiast, I just got back from Hangzhou and couldn't wait to share this super detailed 2-day Hangzhou travel guide with you all. You'll be able to explore Hangzhou like a pro! 📍City Impressions: Hangzhou is a paradise on earth! It has the beautiful West Lake, the tranquil Lingyin Temple, and streets full of artistic vibes. Although January is a bit chilly, there are fewer tourists, and the scenery is more peaceful, allowing you to quietly enjoy the charm of the city. 🚗Transportation Tips: ✈️ After arriving at Xiaoshan International Airport, there are airport buses to various stations in the city, or you can take the subway directly to popular areas like Hubin and Longxiangqiao, which is convenient and fast. 🚄 Hangzhou East Station and Hangzhou Station have many trains, and East Station is close to the city center. The subway transfer inside the station is super convenient, so you can get anywhere quickly. 🗺Itinerary: Day 1: West Lake (Broken Bridge - Bai Causeway - Solitary Hill - Yue Fei Temple - Quyuan Fenghe - Su Causeway - Huagang Park) - Hubin Intime (dining and shopping) Start in the morning from Broken Bridge, stroll along Bai Causeway and Solitary Hill, and enjoy the winter lake view. Have some snacks like scallion pancakes near Yue Fei Temple for lunch. In the afternoon, walk through Quyuan Fenghe to Su Causeway, then to Huagang Park. In the evening, go to Hubin Intime for a big meal and enjoy the night view. Day 2: Lingyin Temple - Faxi Temple - Hefang Street (Southern Song Imperial Street) In the morning, go to Lingyin Temple to experience the tranquility and have vegetarian noodles. Then, go to Faxi Temple to pray for love. In the evening, go to Hefang Street, eat and shop, and experience the old street style. 🌟Must-visit Attractions: 1. West Lake: Beautiful all year round. In January, West Lake is cold and quiet, with a thin mist over the lake, like a fairyland. Walking along the lake is refreshing. 2. Lingyin Temple: An ancient temple with a serene atmosphere and thriving incense. The red walls and green tiles of the thousand-year-old temple are especially solemn against the green trees, purifying the soul. 3. Faxi Temple: A popular spot for photos. The yellow walls of the temple are beautiful for photos, and the surrounding amulets and other small items are very popular. You can also pray for love. 4. Yue Fei Temple: Commemorate the national hero Yue Fei and feel the grandeur of that period of history. It is solemn and awe-inspiring. 5. Hefang Street: Full of ancient charm, with various Hangzhou specialties and handicrafts. It's bustling and you can find many treasures. 6. Broken Bridge: A classic West Lake attraction. Although snow is rare, the Broken Bridge under the winter sun has a unique charm. 7. Three Pools Mirroring the Moon: A landmark of West Lake. Take a boat to see it up close. The stone pagoda's reflection in the water is enchanting and beautiful. 8. Nine Creeks and Eighteen Gullies: The mountain streams are babbling, and the trees are colorful. Walking among them is like entering a painting, refreshing and pleasing to the eye. 9. Longjing Village: The fragrance of tea is everywhere. Experience Hangzhou's tea culture, taste a cup of Longjing tea, and feel the slow life. 📝Practical Tips: • There are shared bikes by West Lake, which are great for a leisurely ride while enjoying the scenery. But be careful during holidays when there are more people. • Lingyin Temple and Faxi Temple require advance ticket reservations on the official WeChat account, so don't go there without a ticket. • For a boat ride on West Lake, choose the state-owned large boats for better value. 🍱Local Food Recommendations: • Vinegar Fish: The fish is tender, and the vinegar sauce is sweet and sour, melting in your mouth. It's a unique taste and a classic Hangzhou dish. • Longjing Shrimp: The shrimp is fresh and bouncy, with a light Longjing tea fragrance. It's refreshing and delicious. • Scallion Pancakes: The outer layer is crispy, with youtiao and scallions inside, brushed with sweet sauce. It's savory and satisfying. • Dingsheng Cake: Soft and sweet, with a delicate red bean paste filling that melts in your mouth. It has a beautiful meaning and brings happiness. • Pian'er Chuan: The noodles are chewy, with fresh and crisp pickled vegetables and bamboo shoots. The soup is delicious. A bowl in winter warms you up. • Cat's Ears: Shaped like cat ears, small and delicate, with a chewy texture. Paired with various seasonings, it's full of flavor. 🏠Hotel Accommodation: • West Lake Hubin Business District: Orange Crystal Hotel, with a great location. The lake view rooms offer a view of West Lake. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-equipped. • Near Lingyin Temple: Qingzhilian · Cuigu Boutique B&B, with a serene environment and a strong Zen atmosphere. It's close to Lingyin Temple, convenient for travel, and offers attentive service. • Near Hefang Street: All Seasons Hotel, with good value. The surrounding area is lively and convenient for travel. The rooms are simple and clean, making for a comfortable stay. Tips: • Hangzhou is cold in January, so remember to bring a thick coat to keep warm. • When buying silk, tea, and other specialties, go to reputable stores to avoid scams. • Parking around West Lake is difficult and expensive, so try to use public transportation. Guys, the beauty of Hangzhou needs to be experienced in person. Take this guide and start your journey! 💕
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*Created by local travelers and translated by AI.
Posted: Jan 5, 2025
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