Transit Essentials
Hangzhou is one of China's most beautiful cities, famous for West Lake¥a UNESCO World Heritage site. Just 45 minutes from Shanghai by high-speed train, it's the perfect day trip or multi-day extension for Shanghai transit passengers.
Access from Shanghai
- High-Speed Train: Shanghai Hongqiao ? Hangzhou East station
- Frequency: Trains every 10-20 minutes
- Journey Time: 45-60 minutes
- Cost: ¥73-150 (second class to business class)
What Makes Hangzhou Special
Ancient Chinese saying: "Above is heaven, below is Suzhou and Hangzhou." West Lake's scenic beauty has inspired poets and artists for over 1,000 years. Add world-famous Longjing (Dragon Well) green tea, and you have a perfect escape from Shanghai's bustle.
💡 Transit Tip
Hangzhou is in Zhejiang province, which is included in Shanghai's 240-hour transit policy coverage area. You can freely travel between Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, and the rest of Jiangsu/Zhejiang!
Curated Itineraries
📅 1 Day: West Lake Essentials
Perfect day trip from Shanghai.
- 08:00: High-speed train from Shanghai (arrive Hangzhou ~9am).
- 09:30: Bike around West Lake - Rent a bike (¥20/day) and cycle the 15km loop. Stop at scenic spots like Broken Bridge, Su Causeway.
- 12:00: Lunch: Dongpo Pork - Hangzhou's signature dish named after poet Su Dongpo.
- 14:00: Visit Lingyin Temple - One of China's most important Buddhist temples, nestled in forested hills.
- 16:30: Tea tasting at Longjing Tea Village - Sample authentic Dragon Well tea where it's grown.
- 19:00: Evening train back to Shanghai.
📅 2 Days: Lake & Tea Culture
Immerse yourself in Hangzhou's relaxed pace.
- Day 1: Follow the 1-Day itinerary but stay overnight. Evening: Walk West Lake illuminated path or watch Impression West Lake show (stunning water performance by Zhang Yimou).
- Day 2 Morning: Sunrise at Leifeng Pagoda - Iconic tower with West Lake views.
- Day 2 Afternoon: Visit China National Tea Museum (free entry!). Learn about tea culture and participate in ceremony.
- Evening: Explore Hefang Street - Historic pedestrian street with snacks, crafts, traditional medicine shops.
📅 3 Days: Complete Zhejiang Experience
Add ancient water towns to your Hangzhou visit.
- Day 1-2: Explore Hangzhou as above.
- Day 3: Day trip to Wuzhen Water Town (1.5 hrs from Hangzhou). Ancient canal town with traditional architecture, bridges, and boat rides. Or visit Xitang Water Town (equally beautiful, less crowded).
Bonus: Consider staying overnight in one of these water towns for an evening atmosphere when day-trippers have left!
Getting Around Hangzhou
🚇 Metro System
Hangzhou Metro has 10+ lines. Modern and efficient, though not as extensive as Shanghai/Beijing.
- Line 1: Main line connecting Hangzhou East Station to West Lake area (Wulin Square, Longxiangqiao)
- Line 2: Connects to Xiaoshan Airport
- Fares: ¥2-10 depending on distance
🚲 Bike Sharing & Lake Circuit
Public Bike System: One of the world's largest bike-sharing programs! ¥200 deposit, first hour free. Perfect for West Lake circuit.
Mobike/Alipay Bikes: Scan-to-unlock bikes everywhere in the city.
🚕 Taxis & Ride-Hailing
Starting fare: ¥11 for first 3 km. Didi works well in Hangzhou.
🚄 Train Access
- From Shanghai: 45-60 min, ¥73-150
- From Suzhou: 90 min, ¥70-130
- Book via: 12306.cn (official) or Trip.com/Ctrip (English-friendly)
Culinary Delights
Hangzhou cuisine (part of Zhejiang cuisine) emphasizes fresh, light flavors. It's considered one of China's Eight Great Cuisines.
Must-Try Dishes
- Dongpo Pork : Braised pork belly¥melt-in-your-mouth tender, sweet and savory. Hangzhou's most famous dish.
- West Lake Fish in Vinegar Sauce: Delicate freshwater fish in sweet-sour sauce.
- Beggar's Chicken: Whole chicken wrapped in lotus leaves and clay, slow-roasted. Order in advance at restaurants!
- Longjing Shrimp: Stir-fried shrimp with Longjing (Dragon Well) tea leaves. Unique local specialty.
Where to Eat
- Budget (¥30-60): Hefang Street snacks, local noodle shops
- Mid-Range (¥100-200): Louwailou (historic restaurant by West Lake), Hangzhou Restaurant
- Splurge (¥300+): Zhi Wei Guan, Four Seasons Hotel restaurants
🍵 Tea Culture
Don't leave without trying Longjing (Dragon Well) tea! Buy from the tea village for best prices (¥100-500/100g depending on quality). Avoid tourist trap prices in shops!
Budget Breakdown
💰 Budget (¥200-350 / $28-50 per day)
- Accommodation: Hostel ¥80-120, budget hotel ¥180-280
- Food: Street food & local restaurants ¥80-100/day
- Transport: Bike rental ¥20, metro ¥10-15/day
- Attractions: West Lake (free!), Lingyin Temple ¥75
💵 Mid-Range (¥500-900 / $70-125 per day)
- Accommodation: 3-4 star hotel near West Lake ¥400-650
- Food: Quality restaurants ¥250-350/day
- Transport: Mix of bike, metro, occasional taxi ¥40-60/day
- Attractions: Add Impression West Lake show (¥310)
💎 Luxury (¥1,500+ / $210+ per day)
- Accommodation: 5-star lakeside hotels ¥1,000-3,000
- Food: Fine dining ¥500-1,000/day
- Experiences: Private tea ceremonies, upscale cultural shows
Money-Saving Tips: West Lake is FREE and the main attraction! Rent a bike instead of taxis. Eat where locals eat¥away from West Lake tourist area for better prices.
Where to Stay
- West Lake North (Wulin Square): Best for first-time visitors. Close to lake, metro, shopping.
- West Lake West: More peaceful, near tea plantations and Lingyin Temple.
- Hefang Street area: Historic quarter with budget options and nightlife.
- Xihu District: Premium lakeside hotels with views (expensive but worth it for romantics!).
Hangzhou Transit FAQ
Can I visit Hangzhou from Shanghai on my transit visa?
YES! Hangzhou is in Zhejiang province, which is fully included in Shanghai's 240-hour transit coverage. You can freely travel between Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, and other cities in Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces.
How long should I spend in Hangzhou?
Minimum 1 full day to see West Lake highlights. 2 days is ideal to relax and enjoy the tea culture. 3 days allows for water town day trips.
Best time to visit?
Spring (March-May) for blooming flowers, or autumn (September-November) for comfortable weather. Summer can be hot and humid. Winter is quiet but beautiful with potential for snow!