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July 25, 2025
1 viewsHangzhou Ultimate 5-Day Family Travel Guide: City Exploration & Budget Travel
Discover Hangzhou's cultural treasures, natural beauty, and budget-friendly experiences perfect for families
Family TravelCity ExplorationBudget Travel
Quick Overview
Chinese Name: 杭州
Location: Zhejiang Province, East China
Famous For: West Lake,Lingyin Temple,Longjing Tea Plantations
Daily Cost: CNY 1500-2000 per family of 4
Best Season: March-May, September-November
Why Visit Hangzhou with Family?
Hangzhou combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, offering family-friendly activities from West Lake cruises to tea-picking experiences in Longjing Village. With its efficient public transport and diverse attractions, it's perfect for creating lasting memories without breaking the budget.
Best Time to Visit Hangzhou
Ideal Seasons: Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September-November) for clear skies
🌱Spring: Enjoy mild temperatures (15-22°C) and the famous West Lake flower exhibition. Book accommodations early for Qingming Festival holidays.
☀️Summer: Experience West Lake boat rides (25-32°C) but prepare for humidity. Visit Xixi National Wetland Park for water-based activities.
🍁Autumn: Perfect weather (20-26°C) for hiking at Lingyin Temple and exploring Songcheng Theme Park.
❄️Winter: Cozy up at Xinlan Hot Spring Hotel after visiting Six Harmonies Pagoda. Temperatures range 5-12°C.
Arriving and Leaving Hangzhou
Metro (Lines 1-5), bike-sharing (300+ stations), and ride-hailing apps like Didi. Family-friendly tip: Use Metro Line 1 for West Lake sightseeing.
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport [Recommended]
30km from city center with direct airport express (CNY 30). Taxis cost CNY 120-150 (50min). Metro Line 1 connects to major areas.
Hangzhou East Railway Station
China's busiest high-speed rail hub with metro connections (Lines 1/4). Taxis available 24/7 (CNY 40-60 to West Lake area).
Where to Stay in Hangzhou: Best Neighborhoods for Families
West Lake Area
Walkable to major attractions. Mid-range hotels like Jinlan Hotel and budget options like 7 Days Inn.
Wushan Square
Historical area with night markets and easy metro access. Recommended: Yitel Hotel Hangzhou West Lake
Top Family-Friendly Activities in Hangzhou
West Lake
Rent electric carts (CNY 50/hour) or take family boat rides (CNY 45-60). Must-see spots: Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, Leifeng Pagoda
Hangzhou Zoo
Home to giant pandas and interactive exhibits. Open daily 7:30-17:00. Admission: CNY 15 for children, CNY 25 adults.
Tips
Visit attractions early to avoid crowds. Purchase the West Lake Combined Ticket (CNY 75) for multiple sites.
What to Eat: Hangzhou Family-Friendly Food Guide
Recommended Restaurants
1. Zhiweiguan
Local favorite for steamed buns and budget-friendly meals. Famous for pork soup dumplings (CNY 25/6pcs).
2. Wai Po Jia
Modern take on Hangzhou cuisine. Signature dish: Tea-smoked Duck. Main courses CNY 60-120.
Signature Dishes
1. West Lake Vinegar Fish
Sweet-and-sour carp from West Lake, best at Louwailou Restaurant (established 1848)
2. Dragon Well Shrimp
Tea-leaves stir-fried with fresh shrimp, available at Zhijing Pavilion near West Lake
Hangzhou 5-Day Family Itinerary
DAY 1
🍳Breakfast at Zhiweiguan:Try steamed pork dumplings and osmanthus cake
Visit Lingering Snow at Broken Bridge:Iconic West Lake landmark with playground nearby
DAY 2
Explore Lingyin Temple:Buddhist cultural site with interactive exhibits for children
Tea Ceremony at Longjing Village:Family tea-tasting session with traditional snacks
Hangzhou Travel FAQs
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