Private day tour of Hangzhou
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Soak up the scenery of Hangzhou on this private day tour with lunch. Admire the great view of the West Lake, and enjoy a boat ride around the glittering waters. Make the most of your private guide as you stroll down the lively Qinghefang Ancient Street and get a taste of local culture with a tour of the Longjing Tea Plantation.
Enjoy the lakeside gardens and other sights on a walking tour of West Lake
Take a relaxing boat ride through West Lake
Learn about one of China’s most popular exports on a trip to the Longjing Tea Plantation
Experience the rich culture of Hangzhou on a visit to the bustling Qinghefang Ancient Street
Available options
Private day tour of Hangzhou
Pickup included
What's included
Entrance fees with one-way boat ride on West Lake
Private transfers with English speaking guide service
Chinese lunch in local restaurant
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your expert guide at your hotel at 8 am and travel to the West Lake. West Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in China, and today you will experience this beauty with a boat ride. Admire the view of the serene lake with its charming gardens and the surrounding hills as you follow your guide on a walk. Discover China’s national treasures in the ancient buildings, stone caves and engraved tablets littered around.
Then head out on a boat ride to see more sights. The cruise will take approximately one hour and end at the Flower Harbor, where you can watch and feed the goldfish swimming in the pond! Flower Harbor is renowned for its large variety of flowers, especially peonies. Take in the colorful sights and wonderful scents of the many gardens.
2
Then your guide will lead you on a trip to Longjing Tea Plantation, and enjoy your lunch in a farmer's restaurant. Later, visit a local farmer’s home, where you will see how the famed Longjing tea (a high-quality green tea) is cultivated. You can also try a sample of newly harvested tea to see for yourself why it is so renowned.
Next, follow your guide on a walk through the plantation and see firsthand the process of farming tea trees and picking tea leaves. Hike up the mountain for about an hour to reach a bamboo forest, where you’ll enjoy the dense bamboo groves, remarkable pavilions and beautiful garden scenery. Relax here for a bit and enjoy the serene natural environment.
3
Stop 3
Afterwards, you will enjoy a walking tour of Hangzhou’s Qinghefang Ancient Street. With buildings built in the architectural style of the Song Dynasty, it is one of the most well-preserved ancient streets in Hangzhou. The street is lined with shops, restaurants, alleyways and courtyards that represent the rich cultural heritage of Hangzhou. After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Hangzhou.
What's not included
Tips for driver and guide
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
ZH-CN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
