Hangzhou

Hangzhou is a beautiful city with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Here’s a delightful 5-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and create wonderful memories!

Day 1: Arrival and West Lake Exploration

Morning:

• Arrive in Hangzhou and check into your family-friendly hotel. The Hyatt Regency Hangzhou or Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake are great options with family amenities.
• After settling in, head to West Lake. Rent a family-sized bike or take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside. The views are breathtaking!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a picnic lunch at Xihu Tiandi, a lovely area with restaurants and shops. Grab some local snacks like Hangzhou-style dumplings.
• After lunch, take a boat ride on West Lake. Kids will love the experience, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Evening:

• Have dinner at a local restaurant. Try Lou Wai Lou, famous for its traditional Hangzhou cuisine.
• If the kids aren’t too tired, catch the Impression West Lake show, a stunning outdoor performance that showcases the beauty of the lake and its surroundings.

Day 2: Culture and Nature

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to the Lingyin Temple, one of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in China. The kids will enjoy exploring the beautiful architecture and the surrounding nature.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Fei Lai Feng area nearby, where you can see ancient stone carvings. It’s a great way to combine culture and a bit of adventure!
• Have lunch at a nearby restaurant, perhaps trying some Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, a local delicacy.

Evening:

• Visit the Tea Plantations in the Longjing (Dragon Well) Village. You can take a family-friendly tea-picking tour and learn about the tea-making process. Kids will love the open spaces to run around!
• Enjoy dinner at a local tea house, where you can sip on freshly brewed Longjing tea while enjoying some light snacks.

Day 3: Adventure and Fun

Morning:

• Spend the day at Hangzhou Safari Park. It’s a fantastic place for kids to see animals up close, and there are plenty of interactive exhibits.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at the park’s café or pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas.
• After lunch, head to the Hangzhou Zoo, which is right next to the safari park. It’s smaller but perfect for a family visit.

Evening:

• Return to the city and have dinner at Zhi Wei Guan, known for its delicious local dishes.
• If the kids have energy left, take a stroll through Wushan Square and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Day 4: Day Trip to Xitang Water Town

Morning:

• Take a day trip to Xitang, a charming water town about an hour from Hangzhou. It’s family-friendly and offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life.
• Explore the canals, bridges, and ancient buildings. Kids will love the boat rides!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries. Try the Xitang rice dumplings!
• Spend the afternoon wandering through the town, visiting shops, and maybe even trying your hand at some local crafts.

Evening:

• Return to Hangzhou and have a relaxed dinner at The Grandma’s Restaurant, which is great for families and offers a variety of dishes.
• Wind down with a family movie night at your hotel or a nearby cinema.

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit the Hangzhou Silk Museum. It’s educational and fun, and you can see how silk is made. Kids often find the process fascinating!

Afternoon:

• Head to Wulin Square for some last-minute shopping. There are plenty of shops where you can pick up souvenirs, silk products, and local snacks.
• Have lunch at a nearby café or restaurant.

Evening:

• Depending on your departure time, enjoy a final stroll around West Lake or visit the China National Silk Museum if you have time.
• Depart Hangzhou with wonderful memories and maybe a few souvenirs to remind you of your trip!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family adventure in Hangzhou! Enjoy every moment! 🌟