All destinations
Lake & tea country · east
Hangzhou
West Lake calm, refined food and green tea landscapes within easy reach of Shanghai.
2–3 nightsSlow elegance
Why this destination
Why Hangzhou belongs in the route.
Hangzhou adds a calm, refined counterpoint to Shanghai and is easy to place within a Lower Yangtze route.
We recommend 2–3 nights here. The right onward connection depends on your season, available time and the contrast you want from the next destination.
Signature experiences
What gives Hangzhou its character.
Visit tea country and understand Longjing culture
Taste the city's restrained regional cooking
When to go
Season changes the feeling.
Spring and autumn are especially pleasant, while each season changes the mood of West Lake.
Planning notes
- Stay overnight rather than rushing from Shanghai
- Use early morning for the lake
- Balance famous sights with slower garden and tea time
Nearby chapters
Continue through east.
Private China planning
Build Hangzhou into the right private tour.
Share your dates, travelers and hotel expectations. We will recommend the right stay, onward connection and private service plan.