Half-Day Hangzhou Private Tour with West Lake Cruise and Lingyin Temple

Hangzhou , China

Half-Day Hangzhou Private Tour with West Lake Cruise and Lingyin Temple

Active

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Maximize your Hangzhou visit by taking this fully guided half day tour to visit the UNSECO site at West Lake and famed Lingyin Buddhist Temple, admire the impressive stone grottos at Feilai Peak and the other complex in the mountain area. Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise along the tranquil lake and take in the fantastic view of the area. Flexible departure time based on your own travel schedule. Great guide, private door to door transfer, entrance fees, lunch or dinner are all included.

Available options

Morning Tour with Lunch

Morning Departure: Great guide, driver with car , entrance fee to temple , west lake boat cruise and local lunch are all included.<br/>Pickup included

Afternoon Tour with Dinner

Afternoon Departure: Great guide, driver with car , entrance fee to temple, west lake boat cruise and local dinner are all included. <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Experienced driver with air-conditioned vehicle

Entrance fee to Feilai Feng and Lingyin temple

West Lake boat cruise

Tasty lunch or dinner (Depends on your departure)

Great local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your local great guide and the driver will meet you at your downtown Hangzhou hotel or Hangzhou Railway Station either in the morning or afternoon. Begin your tour with a nice walk along must-see UNESCO site West Lake, explore the famed sites such as Lotus park, viewing fish at the Flower Harbor, Spring Dawn at Su causeway, Leifeng Pagoda while learning the interesting local folklores, history from your guide. In addition, enjoy the relaxing boat cruise to middle lake Island and soak in the tranquility and picturesque scenery that has inspired many Chinese poets and artists through the ages.

Stop 2

Your local great guide and the driver will pick up at your Hangzhou hotel (train station if you travel by train). First visit the famous Feilai Feng, a lime stone peak where caved more than 300 stone buddha from 1000 years ago, here visit different caves marvel at the amazing craftsmanship from the ancient time and the largest “Happy Buddha” statute that has been laughing since 10th century.

Stop 3

Then continue the tour to Lingyin temple, the China top 10 famous Buddhist Temple, originally built by the Indian Monk, one of the most active temples with the locals. Here spends quality time to explore different complex include “Hall of the Heavenly Kings”, Grand Hall, Medicine Hall etc. See the precious Buddha statue made from Camphor Trees, 500 disciples made of huge bronze, impressive mural wall at Guanyin Buddha and more. Get to learn the fascinating religious culture, custom and history from your guide. After the wonderful tour you will get dropped off at your Hangzhou hotel or other downtown area as per your request.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE CMN EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please advise any dietary request if you have

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Children must be accompanied by an adult

About Hangzhou

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It's home to the iconic West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers a blend of historical landmarks, modern attractions, and serene landscapes.

Top Attractions

West Lake

West Lake is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most famous attraction in Hangzhou. This picturesque lake is surrounded by scenic gardens, temples, and pagodas, offering a serene escape from the city.

Nature Half day to full day Free to enter the lake area, but individual attractions may have entrance fees (¥30-¥100)

Lingyin Temple

Lingyin Temple is one of the largest and wealthiest Buddhist temples in China, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is renowned for its ancient architecture, Buddhist artifacts, and serene atmosphere.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours ¥30

Hefang Street

Hefang Street is a bustling pedestrian street lined with traditional buildings, shops, and restaurants. It offers a glimpse into Hangzhou's rich history and is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local snacks.

Cultural/Shopping 1-2 hours Free to enter, but budget for shopping and snacks

Xixi Wetland Park

Xixi Wetland Park is a unique urban wetland park that offers a serene escape from the city. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and visitors can explore the park by boat or on foot.

Nature Half day ¥100 (including boat tour)

Hangzhou Botanical Garden

The Hangzhou Botanical Garden is a vast and beautifully landscaped garden that showcases a wide variety of plants and flowers. It is a peaceful and scenic spot to relax and enjoy nature.

Nature 1-2 hours ¥30

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dongpo Pork

A braised pork belly dish that is tender, succulent, and slightly sweet. It is named after the famous Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo, who is said to have created the dish.

Main dish Contains pork

Beggar's Chicken

A dish made with a whole chicken wrapped in clay and baked, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful meat inside. The legend goes that a beggar wrapped a stolen chicken in clay to hide it from his pursuers, and the resulting dish was so delicious that it became a local specialty.

Main dish Contains chicken

West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy

A dish made with fresh river fish, cooked in a tangy vinegar-based sauce. The dish is named after the famous West Lake in Hangzhou and is known for its delicate flavors and tender fish.

Main dish Contains fish, may contain gluten

Bamboo Shoot Dishes

Hangzhou is famous for its bamboo shoots, which are used in a variety of dishes. They can be stir-fried, braised, or steamed, and are often served as a side dish or incorporated into other dishes.

Side dish Vegetarian, may contain gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Boat tours Kayaking Tea tasting Spas and wellness centers Parks and gardens Cultural performances

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is vibrant with blooming flowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hangzhou is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a well-developed tourism infrastructure. However, as with any destination, it is essential to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use metered taxis or ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging
• Bargain for better prices in markets and street stalls

Getting there

By air

Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport • 26 km from city center

By train

Hangzhou East Railway Station, Hangzhou Railway Station

By bus

Hangzhou Bus Terminal, East Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Hangzhou Metro is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of multiple lines that connect key points in the city. Signs are in both Chinese and English.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Qinghefang Ancient Street Binjiang District Xiacheng District Gongshu District

Day trips

Xitang Ancient Water Town

120 km from Hangzhou • Full day

Xitang is a picturesque ancient water town known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, canals, and bridges. It is often compared to Venice for its charming waterways and historic buildings.

Wuzhen Ancient Water Town

140 km from Hangzhou • Full day

Wuzhen is another well-preserved ancient water town, known for its traditional architecture, canals, and bridges. It is less touristy than Xitang and offers a more authentic experience.

Tianmu Mountain

90 km from Hangzhou • Full day

Tianmu Mountain is a scenic area known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Festivals

West Lake International Music Festival • September Hangzhou Tea and Culture Festival • March Qingming Festival • Early April

Pro tips

Visit West Lake early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
Explore the ancient water towns of Xitang and Wuzhen for a unique and authentic experience
Sample local snacks and street food at the night markets, such as Hefang Street and Wulin Square
Take a tea plantation tour to learn about the history and culture of tea in Hangzhou
Experience a traditional Chinese medicine treatment or massage for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience