Hangzhou Highlights Muslim Day Trip: West Lake, Phoenix Mosque & Qinghefang

Hangzhou , China

Hangzhou Highlights Muslim Day Trip: West Lake, Phoenix Mosque & Qinghefang

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About this experience

• Cruise West Lake, so beautiful that it was recreated as Beijing's Summer Palace by Qing Emperor Qian Long
• Admire Six Harmonies Pagoda, an iconic building of Hangzhou for a commanding view of Qiantang River
• Perform salat at Phoenix Mosque, one of the four greatest mosques in the coastal area of Southeast China
• Stroll along Qinghefang Ancient Street, the only well persevered antique historic street in Hangzhou
• Experienced English speaking tour guide
• Overland round-trip transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments

Available options

Hangzhou Highlights Muslim Day Trip: West Lake, Phoenix Mosque & Qinghefang

Pickup included

What's included

All government taxes

Professional English speaking guide

Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver

All admission tickets to sightseeing places

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

West Lake is a freshwater lake located in the western area of Hangzhou’s historic centre. The very definition of classical beauty in China, West Lake is utterly mesmerising: pagoda-topped hills rise over willow-lined waters as boats drift slowly through a idyll of leisurely charm. Walkways, perfectly positioned benches, parks and gardens around the banks of the lake offer a thousand and one vantage points for visitors to admire the faultless scenery. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, West Lake has influenced poets and painters throughout Chinese history for its natural beauty and historic relics, and it has also been among the most important sources of inspiration for Chinese garden designers. It was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011, described as having "influenced garden design in the rest of China as well as Japan and Korea over the centuries" and reflecting "an idealized fusion between humans and nature".

Stop 2

Six Harmonies Pagoda, is a multi-story pagoda located at the foot of Yuelun Hill, facing the Qiantang River. The name of Six Harmonies comes from the six Buddhist ordinances and it is said that the reason for building the pagoda was to calm the tidal bore of the Qiantang River which is one of the world's largest tidal waves and served as a lighthouse. It was originally constructed in 970, destroyed in 1121, and reconstructed fully by 1165, during the Southern Song dynasty (1127–1279). After the current pagoda was constructed of wood and brick during the Southern Song dynasty, additional exterior eaves were added during the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing Dynasties (1644–1911). The pagoda is hexagonal in shape, some 59.89 metres (196.5 ft) in height and it has 13 stories, each embellished with beautiful paintings and wall carvings.

Hangzhou Phoenix Mosque is one of the four greatest mosques in the coastal area of Southeast China. Hangzhou Phoenix Mosque is also called Zhenjiao Mosque. Hangzhou Phoenix Mosque was built in the Tang Dynasty (618-907), and was ruined in the Song Dynasty (960-1279). In 1281, Hangzhou Phoenix Mosque was reconstructed again on its original site. Hangzhou Phoenix Mosque was repaired and expanded during the period from 1451 to 1493 in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the current complex of the Phoenix Mosque was formed. At present, Hangzhou Phoenix Mosque covers an area of about 2,600 square meters, and consists of the entrance hall, the auditorium and the prayer hall, etc. The prayer hall of Hangzhou Phoenix Mosque was built without any girder during the Yuan Dynasty. Many cultural relics and artworks, including some wooden couplets with Arabic calligraphy inscriptions on them and stone steles, are preserved in the mosque.

Stop 4

Qinghefang Ancient Street is one of the oldest streets and is the only well persevered antique historic street in Hangzhou. It derived from the Southern Song Dynasty and became prosperous in the Qing Dynasty. The buildings in the street were mostly constructed during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Qinghefang is a crowded and bustling pedestrian street, with makeshift puppet theatres, tea houses, and gift and curio stalls selling everything from stone teapots to ginseng and silk. It’s also home to several traditional medicine shops, including the Huqing Yutang Chinese Medicine Museum, which is an actual dispensary and clinic.

What's not included

Halal Meals

Hotel accommodation

Your personal expenses

Gratuities to guide & driver (US$5 per person per day).

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Halal Meals (lunch & dinner) are not included. Please feel free to ask your guide for suggestions and recommendations.

Keep your passport on you constantly. It might be needed to buy entrance tickets.

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