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July 6, 2025
1 viewsUltimate 3-Day Family Itinerary for Exploring Hangzhou
Discover West Lake, ancient temples, and culinary delights on a budget-friendly adventure
HangzhouFamily TravelCity ExplorationMid-Range Travel
Quick Overview
Chinese Name: 杭州
Location: Zhejiang Province, East China
Famous For: West Lake Cultural Landscape,Silk and Tea Heritage,Canal Civilization
Daily Cost: $80-120 per family of 4
Best Season: Mar-May & Sep-Nov
Introduction: Why Hangzhou Works for Families
Hangzhou offers perfect balance of cultural experiences and child-friendly activities. With West Lake's bike paths, Hangzhou Zoo's interactive exhibits, and China National Silk Museum's hands-on workshops, this UNESCO-listed city ensures engaging experiences for all ages while maintaining mid-range affordability.
Best Time to Visit Hangzhou
Ideal Seasons: Spring blossoms (Mar-May) and autumn foliage (Sep-Nov) offer ideal weather
Arriving and Leaving Hangzhou
Metro (Lines 1-5), Public Buses, Bike-sharing 公共自行车, Ride-hailing apps Didi/T3
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport [Recommended]
22km from West Lake. Metro Line 1 connects to city center (40min, ¥10). Taxis cost ¥150-180. New international terminal handles 40+ airlines
Hangzhou East Railway Station
China's busiest high-speed rail hub. Metro Lines 1/4 connect to major attractions (15-30min). Taxi: ¥50-70 to West Lake
Hangzhou Railway Station (Chengzhan)
Older station closer to West Lake (3km). Metro Line 1 access. Taxi: ¥20-30
Top Things to Do in Hangzhou
West Lake Circuit
Lingyin Temple Complex
Ancient Buddhist temple with kid-friendly storytelling sessions. Includes 飞来峰 cliff carvings. Family ticket: ¥120 (save ¥30)
Tips
Purchase combo tickets for multiple attractions to save 20-30%
What to Eat: Hangzhou Food Guide
Recommended Restaurants
1. Lou Wai Lou Restaurant
Historic lakeside dining since 1848. Scenic balcony view. Reservations required for family banquets
2. Hanbin Dumpling House
Local favorite for handmade dumplings. Try pork-chive (¥18/6pcs) and family set (¥88)
Signature Dishes
1. Dongpo Pork
Master chef Su Dongpo's legendary red-braised pork. Try at 楼外楼 (West Lake Bund, Family Set: ¥288)
2. West Lake Vinegar Fish
Fresh grass carp in light vinegar sauce. Best at 知味观·味庄 (Double Ninth Festival special)
3. Longjing Shrimp
Tea-infused seafood dish. Recommended at 外婆家 (West Lake Branch, Market price: ¥68-98)
Hangzhou Itineraries: 2 Days & 3 Days
DAY 1
🍳Breakfast at Hanbin Dumpling House:Try pork dumplings and soy milk
🥗Lunch at Yue Wang Temple Snack Street:Sample street foods like 定胜糕
Boat Tour to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon:45-minute family-friendly cruise
Tea Ceremony at Longjing Village:Free demonstrations at tea plantations
🍽️Dinner at Lou Wai Lou Restaurant:Scenic lakeside dining with traditional dishes
DAY 2
Visit Lingyin Temple:Watch monks' morning rituals
🥗Vegetarian Lunch at Temple Cafeteria:Wholesome monastery-style meals
Explore Feilai Peak Grottoes:Admire Buddhist stone carvings
Grand Canal Bike Ride:Family bike rental at 拱宸桥
Tea Break at China National Tea Museum:Interactive tea tasting for kids
🍽️Dinner at Shangcheng1888:Contemporary take on Hangzhou cuisine
DAY 3
Silk Museum Workshop:Learn silk painting techniques
🥗Lunch at Fangshan Restaurant:Historic restaurant serving West Lake flavors
Traditional Craft Session:Make paper fans or ink brush calligraphy
Children's Activity at West Lake Art Museum:Interactive art exhibits for young visitors
Shopping at Hefang Street:Buy souvenirs like 杭白菊 tea
🍽️Farewell Dinner at Mei Jia Wu Restaurant:Rustic setting with farm-to-table dishes
Hangzhou Travel FAQs
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