Hangzhou , China

Hangzhou Cultural Day Tour

Active

6h - 8h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the rich cultural tapestry of Hangzhou with a day of history and nature. Visit the ancient Faxi Temple, a tranquil place dating back to 936 AD, and discover the unique China National Tea Museum, the only national-level museum dedicated to tea. Stroll through the picturesque Taiziwan Park, famous for its seasonal blossoms, and enter the lavish former residence of Hu Xueyan, a masterpiece of the Qing Dynasty. Finally, stroll along Hefang Street, a vibrant cultural hub where you can enjoy local snacks and visit traditional handicraft workshops.

- Total duration approximately 6 hours, including transport and meals
- Engage in immersive experiences such as tasting local snacks and walking in a tea plantation
- Visit significant cultural sites that combine history with stunning natural beauty
- Ideal for travellers interested in culture, history and food

Available options

Hangzhou Cultural Day Tour

What's included

Provide en-route explanations and introductions to each tourist attraction

Detailed itinerary

Ticket price: 10 Yuan

A Serene Temple Blending History and Nature
Dating back to 936 AD, Faxi Temple is considered the birthplace of the Chinese belief in the White-robed Guanyin. Towering ancient trees shade the temple grounds, including a 500-year-old white magnolia tree from the Ming Dynasty. Its stunning contrast with the temple’s yellow walls and dark-tiled roofs creates a tranquil, picturesque scene—perfect for capturing the essence of Eastern aesthetics through your lens.

Stop 2

Ticket price: Free

The World’s Only National-Level Museum Dedicated to Tea
This unique museum—spanning two campuses (Shuangfeng and Longjing)—showcases China’s six major tea categories and global tea culture. Interactive exhibits like the multimedia installation “The Life of Tea” offer an engaging way to explore tea’s cultural journey. Surrounded by lush tea plantations, visitors can also stroll along the scenic “Twin Fragrance Paths” to learn how tea is cultivated, processed, and enjoyed in a serene natural setting.

Ticket price: Free

The “Green Lung” of Hangzhou
A beloved, free public park known for its fields of tulips (best viewed in March–April) and blooming cherry blossoms, set against flowing streams, wide lawns, and a charming windmill—creating a romantic, Dutch-style countryside atmosphere.
With its ever-changing seasonal beauty—spring flowers, summer greenery, autumn leaves, and winter stillness—it’s ideal for picnics, photography, and laid-back afternoons with locals.

Ticket price: 20 Yuan

The Lavish Mansion of a Qing Dynasty Tycoon
Dubbed the “Number One Mansion in Jiangnan,” this grand 5,815-square-meter estate was meticulously restored at a cost of over 600 million RMB. It’s a masterpiece of Huizhou architecture featuring rare zitan wood carvings, stained glass windows, an artificial cave, and the exquisite Zhiyuan Garden—earning it the nickname “Oriental Versailles.”
Step inside for a compelling blend of history and design, as you trace the dramatic rise and fall of Hu Xueyan’s fortune. Don’t miss the Yufeng Tower—once the highest point in Hangzhou—for a panoramic garden view and a glimpse into the discreet elegance of traditional Chinese aesthetics.

Ticket price: Free

A Living Cultural Street with a Southern Song Charm
Cobblestone lanes and restored buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties host time-honored brands like Hu Qing Yu Tang (now a TCM museum) and Wangxingji Fan Shop. During the G20 Summit, this vibrant street welcomed the spouses of world leaders for cultural experiences.
It’s also a paradise for local snacks—try traditional favorites like Dingsheng Cake, Congbao Hui (scallion pancake with fried dough), and Lotus Root Starch Soup. As lanterns light up in the evening, the street exudes even more charm. Visitors can visit workshops on traditional crafts such as paper cutting and clay figurine making, or shop for silk, Longjing tea, and other local specialties.

What's not included

Meals

Public transportation

The ticket for Faxi Temple is 10 yuan/person, and the ticket for Hu Xueyan's former residence is 20 yuan/person, making a total of 30 yuan/person.

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Please meet at the ticket window at the entrance of Faxi Temple. Look for a person holding an orange flag—that will be your tour guide.

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