First Time in Hangzhou? Copy This Itinerary

During my trip to Hangzhou, I discovered that spring brings continuous rain, so be sure to pack rain gear! The rain can start suddenly, and without an umbrella, you'll get soaked like a drowned rat and your travel plans might get washed away. Fortunately, I did thorough research beforehand. For those who haven't been to Hangzhou before, this guide will definitely help you, covering all popular attractions and practical information. 🗼How to Get to Hangzhou ①Fly directly to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport✈️. The waiting hall is spacious and bright with complete facilities. While waiting, browse the specialty stores and try Hangzhou lotus root powder for an early taste of local flavors. If there are no direct flights, nearby Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport and Nanjing Lukou International Airport offer convenient transfers via high-speed rail or bus. Remember to book tickets in advance for a smooth journey. ②Train Stations: Hangzhou East Station is the high-speed rail station with frequent trains to destinations nationwide. The station is spacious and bright with convenient transfers. All forms of transportation including buses and taxis are available outside to quickly reach popular spots like West Lake and Qianjiang New City. Hangzhou Station is located in the city center, surrounded by local life with convenient dining and shopping options, perfect for tourists who want to immerse in the local atmosphere right away. Remember to book tickets early during peak season. 🗼Accommodation Guide 🧸【West Lake District (Hubin Business District, near Lingyin Temple)】 Diverse accommodation options from luxury hotels to budget hotels. Hubin Business District is close to West Lake - take evening strolls along the lake to enjoy the scenery and experience both tranquility and prosperity. The area near Lingyin Temple offers a zen atmosphere - wake up to temple bells and birdsong. It's an ideal choice for adjusting to the environment and schedule when first arriving. The area around Longxiang Bridge subway station has everything you need, with convenient accommodation and transportation. 🧸【Near Xixi Wetland】 Perfect choice for an immersive wetland experience. Many nearby hotels and guesthouses offer wetland views. Open your window to lush greenery and fall asleep to frog and insect sounds - truly relaxing. Book early during peak season as prices may fluctuate. 🧸【Along Qiantang River】 A must for those seeking modern city views combined with river scenery. Mainly upscale hotels, some rooms overlook the Qiantang River and city skyline. Convenient location for visiting the riverside to watch the Qiantang River tidal bore or brilliant night views. Perfect for travelers with high accommodation standards. 🗼Popular Attractions 🗳West Lake: In April, West Lake is misty with spring rain. Su Causeway and Bai Causeway feature drooping willows and blooming peach blossoms - walking here feels like stepping into a painting. Take a boat ride to view iconic landmarks like Three Pools Mirroring the Moon and Leifeng Pagoda up close. Many teahouses by the lake offer Longjing tea while watching raindrops fall on the lake surface - truly delightful. 🗳Lingyin Temple: A famous ancient temple in Hangzhou with rich historical and cultural heritage. In April, the temple grounds burst with flowers, complementing the red walls and gray tiles. Enter to hear morning and evening bells, experience Buddhist culture, walk in the surrounding forests for fresh air, and explore the Flying Peak rock carvings to appreciate ancient artistry. 🗳Xixi Wetland: The wetland teems with spring life, lush vegetation, and abundant birds. Take a paddle boat through the crisscrossing waterways, viewing the tree-lined banks and wildflowers, experiencing nature's vitality. Visit Hezhu Street to taste local snacks like water chestnut cake and fried dough twists, buy handicrafts, and experience water town culture. 🗳Hangzhou Museum: Perfect for learning about Hangzhou's history. Rich collection from Liangzhu Culture jade to Ming and Qing paintings. Various themed exhibitions in April. Visit to travel through time, dialogue with Hangzhou's past, gain knowledge, and broaden horizons. 🗳Popular Food 🔖West Lake Fish in Vinegar Sauce: A Hangzhou signature dish using grass carp or bass. Tender fish with sweet and sour sauce - pure Hangzhou flavor in every bite😍. Try authentic versions at traditional restaurants like Lou Wai Lou. 🔖Longjing Shrimp: Fresh shrimp cooked with newly picked Longjing tea leaves. Crystal-clear shrimp with fragrant tea leaves, delicious taste available at local restaurants. 🔖Scallion Pancake Roll: Fried dough and scallions wrapped in thin pancake, grilled golden brown and topped with sweet sauce. Crispy outside, tender inside. Find at street food stalls. 🔖Dingsheng Cake: Pillow-shaped glutinous rice cake with red bean paste filling. Soft texture, sweet but not greasy. Traditional Hangzhou pastry available at specialty stores. In conclusion, careful planning before visiting Hangzhou is essential, considering spring rain challenges and transportation/accommodation arrangements. This helps avoid pitfalls and fully enjoy Hangzhou's unique charm, creating wonderful travel memories.