The 12 BEST Things to do in Hangzhou China
Hangzhou is one of China’s ancient capitals and it is an important tourist destination for Chinese culture and history. It is one of the most beautiful cities with great attractions. It is a very nice city and there are many things to do in Hangzhou.
It is one of the most fascinating places to visit while in China and here is a brief summary of what you can do while you are here.
#1: Visit West Lake
This is the most popular place in Hangzhou. Regardless of the weather or season, West Lake is always outstandingly beautiful.
This is a place where you can boat, bike, or even walk. The classic gardens created in China style are a sight to behold. The landscape is iconic and is definitely worthy of sparing time.
This lake has global recognition because of having some of the most superb sunsets in the world. You can walk here as you like and enjoy the scenery. There are great opportunities to photograph sunsets.
#2: See a Live Performance
Three live shows are conducted in Hangzhou. These are:
- Impression West Lake: This open-air night show takes place on West Lake and it contains dance, lights, and music.
- The romance of the Song dynasty: it’s all about the culture and history of Hangzhou and it takes place at the theme park in Song Dynasty town
- West Lake Night: it happens at Dongpo, a theater near west lake
#3: Do Some Water Towns Shopping
While you are here, you should definitely visit the water towns. They are quaint and well developed with bars and shops. The accommodation is antique furnished. The scenery is not only historic but also charming. The region is great for photographers.
Autumn and spring are especially the best times for traveling. On the other hand, summers can be hot, especially around noon time.
The towns have ancient buildings, bridges, canals, and some narrow lanes.
#4: Walk the Old Hangzhou Street
Qinghefang Old Street is the best place you can go so as to get a taste of the ancient city. This is where the history of Hangzhou lies. You can go sightseeing, eat, and shop in this area. The old buildings are well preserved and you get the chance to explore the interesting stores and get souvenirs. This area is crowded in the peak season.
#5: Hangzhou’s new Face
Nowadays, the city is emerging in terms of technology. The advancement in technology has carried out the city to new horizons. On the other hand, the sci-tech affects people’s lives. It is worth to experience such changes.
You can go shopping at self-service supermarkets to get the feeling of how technology is making shopping so convenient. In addition, you have the chance of being part of mobile payment and online shopping.
#6: Educate Yourself About Chinese Medicine, Silk, and Tea
Longjing tea originates from Hangzhou. It is one of the best teas available in China. Tea culture is one of the most important aspects of Hangzhou.
This area is a great place for the production of tea in the country. You can visit the plantations and learn about the tea-making process.
Chinese tea culture has been around for decades and you can learn more about that in the national tea museum on West Lake in the west shore.
#7: Chinese Medicine and Silk Museums
If medicine and silk attract your interest, then you should take the time to visit two museums located in the area.
The first one is the Hangzhou silk museum which is the largest silk museum worldwide. Here you learn more about silk history and development of it.
The second one is the Chinese medicine museum. The museum is an architectural complex that is built in an ancient style. There are very important books here regarding Chinese medicine. This museum is unique in the sense that it is a national level Chinese medicine museum which is a unique type of its kind.
#8: Explore the Buddhist Heritage
For a long time, the area of Hangzhou has been influenced by Buddhism. Some amazing sites are Buddhist by nature.
#9: Enjoy local cuisine
You can find some of the most delightful regional cuisines here. The flavor is light, the orientation great. They use some delicate methods for cooking.
#10: Visit Baochu Pagoda
This is a great place to get the best view of the city. When the sky is clear, you can get some of the most stunning views of the lake and the city. By combining natural and urban settings, you can get an adventurous feeling. Rock climbing has to be on your list here if you are willing to get great views.
#11: Visit Leifeng pagoda
This is located on the southern side of West Lake. This was built around 1000 years ago but then collapsed in 1920. When you are at the top, you can get the most beautiful sunset view.
A new structure was created including a lift that can take people to the very top so as to get a great view. In addition, the steps take you to the very bottom so that you can view the original pagoda remaining.
#12: See the Carved Temple of Buddha
You will need a taxi or a bus to get to Budha’s temple. The temple is called the Lingyin temple. You need to pay an entrance fee. You can walk around and view depictions of Buddha all around. These are stone-carved which are in different sizes and shapes. The descriptions are in English for each and every one of them.
This is one of the best places to visit when you are in Hangzhou. In the temple, you witness tourists and local people praying and lighting incense. The temple is one of the oldest ones in China.
This is a great place to feel tranquil and spiritual. This is a unique experience and you cannot achieve it anywhere else. It should definitely be on the list of things to do in Hangzhou.
Conclusion
There are countless things that you can explore in Hangzhou. You just need to take time and enjoy the opportunities in this city since it is one of the most important cities in China. There is so much culture, history, and tradition to learn and embrace in this region.
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