Hangzhou West Lake and Tea Plantation Half Day Tour
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4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Visit the stunning city of Hangzhou during this scenic day trip, with private pickup from your hotel or train station. Perfect for travelers short on time, it covers all of the highlights in a single excursion. Glide across serene, UNESCO-listed West Lake on an iconic boat ride, learn the ins and outs of tea cultivating and tasting at Meijiawu Tea Village, and shop for antique embroidery along the centuries-old Southern Song Imperial Street. If you'd like, enjoy a homecooked lunch at a local farmer's home (at your own expense) \
~An in-depth, half-day tour of Hangzhou, with private hotel or train station pickup
~Cover the city’s top highlights in a single visit, perfect for travelers short on time
~Get the best views of traditional pagodas and arched bridges on a scenic boat ride
~Learn how tea is picked and processed, and get a taste of China’s finest brews
Available options
Hangzhou West Lake and Tea Plantation Half Day Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Among the world’s top-rated lakes, Hangzhou’s wondrous West Lake is one of the best. The real attraction of West Lake, however, lies not on the surface but in its abundant wealth of legend, myth, and enigma accumulated over various dynasties.
Throughout China, there is no other lake that has caught the imagination of so many poets, scholars, painters, sculptors, calligraphers and even emperors over so long a time. Blessed with enchanting natural scenery and an enduring cultural legacy immortalized by a multitude of poems, calligraphy masterpieces, paintings and sculptures, West Lake’s boundless charm is not only a visual spectacle but also an experience felt by the heart.
To depict its surreal beauty, Su Dongpo wrote in his poetry:
“ The shimmering ripples delight the eye on sunny days.
The Dim hills present a rare view in rainy haze.
West Lake compares to Xi Zi at her best.
She is gorgeous richly clothed or plainly dressed.”
This poetry does full justice to West Lake’s beauty. Resplendent with temples, museums, islands, villas, tea houses, memorial halls, pools, arched bridges, pagodas, monasteries, and casual walkways lined with classic willow trees, the culture-laden West Lake, a consummate performer, is destined to bewitch, mesmerize and overwhelm every visitor taking in its beauty.
The legendry origin of this beloved lake has various versions. One of the most famous sayings holds that a dazzling pearl fell from heaven and morphed into an instantaneous paradise in Hangzhou. A popular poem sheds light on its mystical origin, and it goes like this:
“The West Lake, a dazzling pearl
Falling from the sky,
The Flying Dragon and Dancing Phoenix
Forever standing by.”
Geologists, however, put forward a less romantic view. They state that West Lake was once a lagoon near the mouth of the Qiantang River. What we see today is the action of lasting dredging efforts over the past millennium.
There are many classic tales of love and woe set at West Lake, among which "Lady Snake White" and "Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai" stand out as the two most famous.
Because of its historical and cultural significance, West Lake became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011. UNESCO quotes that :
“West Lake is an outstanding example of a cultural landscape that displays with great clarity the ideals of Chinese landscape aesthetics, as expounded by writers and scholars in the Tang and Song Dynasties. The landscape of West Lake has had a profound impact on the design of gardens, not only in China, but further afield, where lakes and causeways have imitated the harmony and beauty of West Lake. The key components of West Lake still allow it to inspire people to project feelings onto the landscape . The visual parameters of this vast landscape garden are clearly defined, rising to the ridges of the surrounding hills as viewed from Hangzhou.”
2
Meijiawu Tea Culture Village is located in the west of West Lake Scenic Area. It s a village with a history of over 600 years. It is also the biggest natural village where the world-famous West Lake Dragon (Longjing) Well Tea (西湖龙井) is produced. Besides its extraordinary tea and tea culture, Meijiawu Village is also renowned for its idyllic scene, which is seldom seen in an urbanized world.
The present Meijiawu Village has become much more easily accessible, thanks to the opening of the local longest Meijiawu-Lingyin tunnel (梅灵隧道). Domestic and international tourists regard the village as a must-see attraction. It consists of eight tourists sections, including the tea culture tourist center, the rural leisure tourist area, and a fishing village.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
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2★
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1★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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
Instant confirmation
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