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July 25, 2025
6 viewsHangzhou Family Travel Guide: 5 Days of History & Culture on a Budget
Explore Hangzhou's iconic landmarks, savour local cuisine, and enjoy family-friendly activities without breaking the bank.
Family TravelHistory & CultureBudget Travel
Quick Overview
Chinese Name: 杭州
Location: Zhejiang Province, China
Famous For: West Lake Scenery,Ancient Temples,Longjing Tea Plantations
Daily Cost: $50-70 per person
Best Season: March-May, September-November
Introduction: Why Hangzhou is Perfect for Family Travel
Hangzhou combines natural beauty with rich history, offering serene lakes, ancient temples, and interactive museums. Its compact layout and efficient public transport make it ideal for families seeking both education and entertainment.
Best time to visit Hangzhou
Ideal Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer mild temperatures and vibrant scenery.
🌱Spring: Cherry blossoms at Su Causeway and pleasant temperatures (12-20°C).
☀️Summer: Hot and humid (25-32°C) with frequent rain, but perfect for indoor activities.
🍁Autumn: Crisp air and colorful foliage at North Hill Street (18-24°C).
❄️Winter: Mild (5-12°C) with occasional snow at Lingyin Temple.
Arriving and Leaving Hangzhou
Metro Line 1 connects major attractions. Bus routes 7, 8, and 31 serve West Lake. Family bike rentals at Lake Circuit Road.
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport [Recommended]
27km from West Lake. Airport express trains to East Railway Station (40min). Taxis cost ¥150-200 ($20-30).
Hangzhou East Railway Station
China's largest railway hub. Metro Line 1 to West Lake (15min). Taxis cost ¥30-50 ($4-7).
Where to Stay in Hangzhou: Best Neighborhoods
West Lake District
Steps from attractions. Budget options: Hanting 3.0 ($40/night). Luxury: Jinling Riverside Hotel ($200/night).
Qinghefang Area
Traditional architecture near Hefang Street. Mid-range hotels like Vienna International Hotel ($90/night).
Top Things to do in Hangzhou
West Lake
Paddle boats at Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, picnic at Su Causeway, and watch the sunset at Leifeng Pagoda.
Lingyin Temple
Explore the 'Temple of Soul's Retreat' with its massive Maitreya statue and cliff-side Buddhist carvings.
Longjing Tea Village
Participate in tea-picking workshops and enjoy fresh Longjing (Dragon Well) tea tastings.
Tips
Purchase West Lake Group Ticket (¥80) for 5 attractions. Book temple tickets online.
What to Eat: Hangzhou Food Guide
Recommended Restaurants
1. Louwailou Restaurant
Historic lakeside dining since 1848. Try their West Lake Vinegar Fish (set menu ¥150/family).
2. Gourmet Duck Restaurant
Famous for tea-smoked duck. Family combo meals from ¥90.
Signature Dishes
1. West Lake Vinegar Fish
Steamed mandarin fish with sweet and sour vinegar sauce.
2. Beggar's Chicken
Clay-roasted chicken stuffed with mushrooms and bamboo shoots.
Hangzhou Itinerary 5 Days
DAY 1
West Lake Cruise:Paddle boat rental at Moon Embracing Pavilion
🥗Lunch at Louwailou Restaurant:Enjoy West Lake Vinegar Fish with lakeside views
DAY 2
Lingyin Temple:Family meditation session at the 'Temple of Soul's Retreat'
Longjing Tea Workshop:Interactive tea-picking and tasting experience
Hangzhou Travel FAQs
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