Private Hangzhou Classic City Tour with Authentic Lunch

Hangzhou , China

Private Hangzhou Classic City Tour with Authentic Lunch

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(3 reviews)

6h - 8h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore main highlights of fascinating city of Hangzhou including many attractions surrounding West Lake. You may also take a boat ride in the west side of the lake to stay away from the crowds. the placid waters of which have been immortalized throughout history in literature and poetry. Experience a Chinese tea ceremony at Longjing Green Tea Plantation & Village (Meijiawu) and walk through the Bamboo lined path at Yunqi to get away from the bustling crowds and fully experience the serenity and beautiful nature of Hangzhou. Enjoy lunch at a local tea grower’s house with authentic Hangzhou food.

Available options

PRIVATE TOUR

Pickup included

What's included

Private city transfer in Hangzhou

Professional guide

Bottled water

Lunch

Boat Ride on West Lake

Railway station pickup and drop-off at Hangzhou train station or your hotel in Hangzhou downtown

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Meet your private guide upon pickup at Hangzhou Railway Station or your Hangzhou City hotel and set out on a full day of sightseeing in the comfort of an air-conditioned private vehicle. Let your your guide know your interests of any particular attractions so the commentary and itinerary can be customized accordingly. This one day tour in Hangzhou includes the following activities and attractions:

West Lake: West Lake has influenced not only poets and painters throughout Chinese history for its natural beauty and historical relics but also has been one of the most important sources of inspiration for Chinese garden designers. It was awarded as an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011 because it reflects "an ideal fusion of humans and nature." Take the boat cruise at your own expense to get away from the bustling crowd and to fully experience the serenity and beautiful nature of West Lake.

Next visit Guo's Villa, Considered to be the best existing traditional private garden in Hangzhou and a great place to relax and revel in the beauty of Song-era tea houses and pavilions. Only local people come to this garden to enjoy their leisure time. The villa not only provides you with a better understanding on this Asian "leisure capital" but also an idea place for photography.

Continue to Longjing Green Tea Plantation and Village (Meijiawu), the origin of the most famous variety of green tea, Longjing, in china with beautiful natural scenery (There are many tea houses in the village and you will have a chance to sample local tea). Interestingly, at a local tea grower's tea house, you could learn how to prepare local delicacies if you are interested. Learn to cook beggar's Chicken, Westlake carp fish in vinegar source, lotus roots, bamboo shoot and many other fresh vegetables. If you don’t wish to cook, just sit back and their flavors.

Later, explore Bamboo Lined Path at Yunqi. The serene Bamboo-lined Path in Yunqi is a 1km (0.6 mi) stone-paved path that cuts through dense bamboo forest all the way to Yunqi Valley, which is an ideal and quiet place to get away from the crowds for leisure stroll to enjoy lush green bamboo groves towering over you and with murmuring stream running alongside the path.

Your final stop is Qinghefang Old Street, a good place to experience the lifestyle of Old Hangzhou since it is the epitome of historic Hangzhou. It is also a great place for shopping, food, and sightseeing. You could see well-preserved old buildings, explore interesting boutiques, and shop for unique souvenirs.

When the tour is concluded, we will drop you off at Hangzhou Train Station or your hotel in Hangzhou.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Round way train tickets are not included. (The best way is you can ask your hotel in Shanghai help you by the round way train tickets)

Important notes

• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• TRAVEL TIP: Tips are recommended. It is useful to carry small notes with you at all times. If you are unsure who, or how much to tip, please do not hesitate to ask your tour guide for guidance

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