3 day itinerary for Hangzhou

Itinerary

Hangzhou is a stunning city with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and fantastic shopping opportunities. Let’s dive into a delightful 3-day itinerary that balances all your interests!

## Day 1: Exploring West Lake and Cultural Heritage

Morning:

• West Lake (Xi Hu): Start your day with a leisurely stroll around West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The morning mist over the lake is simply magical! Don’t miss the iconic Broken Bridge and Su Causeway. You can rent a bike or take a boat ride to soak in the views.
• Leifeng Pagoda: After your walk, head to Leifeng Pagoda, which offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The pagoda is steeped in legend, and the climb is worth it for the scenery!

Lunch:

• Enjoy a traditional Hangzhou meal at a local restaurant. Try the famous Dongpo Pork and West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy. Yum!

Afternoon:

• China National Silk Museum: Dive into Hangzhou’s silk history at this fascinating museum. You’ll learn about the silk-making process and even see some beautiful silk products.
• Hefang Street: After the museum, head to Hefang Street for some shopping! This pedestrian street is lined with shops selling traditional crafts, tea, and snacks. Don’t forget to try some local street food!

Evening:

• West Lake Impression Show: Wrap up your day with the spectacular light show on West Lake, directed by Zhang Yimou. It’s a breathtaking performance that combines music, dance, and the stunning backdrop of the lake.

## Day 2: Nature and Tea Culture

Morning:

• Tea Plantations in Longjing (Dragon Well): Start your day with a visit to the famous Longjing tea plantations. Take a guided tour to learn about tea picking and processing. You can even participate in a tea tasting session!

Lunch:

• Enjoy a meal at a local tea house, where you can savor dishes made with fresh ingredients from the area, paired with the exquisite Longjing tea.

Afternoon:

• Xixi National Wetland Park: After lunch, head to Xixi National Wetland Park. This serene area is perfect for a peaceful walk or a boat ride through the lush greenery and waterways. Keep an eye out for local wildlife!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Try some more local delicacies, perhaps some Bamboo Shoots or Stir-fried Shrimp.
• Night Market: If you’re up for it, explore a night market for some late-night shopping and snacks. The atmosphere is vibrant, and you can find unique souvenirs!

## Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Shopping

Morning:

• Lingyin Temple: Start your day with a visit to Lingyin Temple, one of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in China. The intricate carvings and serene atmosphere are truly captivating. Don’t forget to explore the nearby Fei Lai Feng, where you can see ancient stone carvings.

Lunch:

• Have lunch at a nearby vegetarian restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious Buddhist cuisine.

Afternoon:

• Shopping at West Lake Cultural Square: Head to the West Lake Cultural Square area for some shopping. You’ll find a mix of modern malls and traditional shops. Check out the Hangzhou Tower Shopping Mall for a variety of brands.
• Visit the Zhejiang Museum: If time permits, visit the Zhejiang Museum to learn more about the region’s history and culture. The museum often has interesting exhibitions.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant: Treat yourself to a lovely dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of West Lake. It’s the perfect way to end your trip, enjoying the sunset over the water.
• Stroll along the Lake: After dinner, take a final stroll along the lake. The night lights reflecting on the water create a romantic atmosphere, perfect for reminiscing about your trip.

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary in Hangzhou that captures the essence of its landscapes, culture, and shopping. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌸