The beautiful lakeside city of Hangzhou is rich in heritage and culture. It has been known Hangchew and Hangchow earlier. Hangzhou is the capital of Zhejiang Province. But the city is said to be over 2,000 years old. In the 10th century, it was the capital of the Wu and Yue states. The focal point here is the breathtaking West Lake. The area is a traveller's joy, with multiple reflecting pools, old temples, and classical Chinese gardens. With the 19th Asian Games being held here, here's a guide to the city.
Frozen In Words
Hangzhou has been a recurring theme in many poems including this one by the Chinese poet Bai Ju Yi: “Remembering the Fair South,/As always, it is Hangzhou I most recall:/ Amongst the mountain temples/ I search for the osmanthus petals/ From which the moon did fall.”
Even Marco Polo described it as a piece of paradise: “In heaven there is paradise/ On earth, Suzhou and Hangzhou.”
The Silk City And Beyond
According to UNESCO, the port city of Hangzhou has been a strategic hub along the Silk Roads since ancient times. Known as ‘the House of Silk’, the city was one of the seven ancient capitals of China with silk fabrics uncovered in the region dating back 4,700 years to the Neolithic Liangzhu culture (3400-2250 BC). During the Yuan Dynasty, Italian merchant, traveller and writer Marco Polo visited Hangzhou describing the city as "beyond dispute the finest and the noblest in the world…The number and wealth of the merchants, and the amount of goods that passed through their hands, was so enormous that no man could form a just estimate thereof." Hangzhou was home to the world's largest artificial canal at the time, which was over 600 years old and stretched about 800 kilometres, allowing grain to be transported to Beijing.
What To See And Do
Spend time relaxing at West Lake, where scenic splendour combines with famous historical and cultural institutions. Check out the classic Ten Scenes at the West Lake.
Visit one of China's most famous temples, the Lingyin Temple, which dates back over 1,600 years. Lingyin Temple has many pagodas, Buddhist grottoes, and various religious rock carvings, the most notable of which is the Feilai Feng.
Qinghefang Street is a traditional pedestrian street in Hangzhou at the foot of Wushan Hill. It is thought to have existed since the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279). It has been lauded as an example of excellence in historic site preservation in China. Qinghefang is now a perfect location for experiencing and exploring Hangzhou's ancient traditions and folk customs, which have been preserved. Visit the Wangxingji Fan Store, the Zhangxiaoquan Scissors Shop, the Huqingyutang and the Fanghuichuntang traditional Chinese pharmacies—all restored traditional businesses.
The Six Harmonies Pagoda (also known as the Liuhe Pagoda) is located on Yuelun Hill overlooking the Qiantang River. 'Liuhe' comes from the six Buddhist ordinances. The octagonal structure is 196 feet tall, with a spiral staircase leading to the top floor.
Chinese tea is famous around the world and China National Tea Museum is the best place to explore the culture and history of tea in China through exhibits about tea. You can also sample varieties of tea, and watch tea ceremony performances.
Shopping And Eating
Head out to the bustling Hefang Street to taste different kinds of Hangzhou specialty dishes. The street also has shops selling souvenirs like Chinese silks and tea. At night, hit up Hedong Road. It has many restaurants and canteens with various dishes and snacks. Another option is Shenglihe Food Street, also called Gushui Street, located in the Gongshu District of Hangzhou.
Hangzhou is considered to be a hub of Chinese silk culture. Hangzhou silk has a 2,500-year history and is known for its smooth texture, stunning colours, and great variety. You can pick it up at Hangzhou Chinese Silk City on Xinhua Road and at Hangzhou Siruibao Silk Shopping Center on Baochu Road.
Another must-buy is Longjing Tea, also known as Dragon Well Tea. It has a unique aroma and taste. Pick up packets at Hangzhou West Lake Longjing Tea Company Ltd on Qifeng Road, and at Hangzhou Shifeng Tea Company Ltd on Yanan Road.
Places To Stay
For travellers seeking a touch of luxury with views, the West Lake area is home to prestigious hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake, Banyan Tree Hangzhou, and Shangri-La Hotel Hangzhou, offering opulent rooms and proximity to the enchanting West Lake.
Hefang Street, a historic and bustling district, provides an immersive cultural experience. Here, you can explore charming streets, savour local cuisine, and stay at accommodations such as Hangzhou Dahua Hotel, Midtown Shangri-La Hangzhou, or Hangzhou Rose Garden Resort & Spa.
For convenience, the Hangzhou Railway Station area offers various lodging options, making it a practical choice for travellers.
In the downtown Shangcheng District, hotels like Sheraton Grand Hangzhou Binjiang Hotel and Grand Hyatt Hangzhou cater to business and leisure travellers. Budget-conscious visitors can also find hostels and guesthouses scattered across the city, ensuring Hangzhou's rich experiences are accessible to all.
Getting There
Hangzhou is located on China's east coast, about 170 km from Shanghai. You can take a bullet train from Shanghai (about 1 hour) or from Suzhou (about 1½ hours). Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport connects Hangzhou with cities in China and 40 international cities. By train, you can come via the Hangzhou Railway Station, Hangzhou East Railway Station and Hangzhou South Railway Station. They connect to major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, and Guangzhou.