Hangzhou 杭州 — Paradise on Earth — UNESCO West Lake & Ancient Capital
Hangzhou is one of China's most beautiful cities, with the UNESCO-listed West Lake as its crown jewel. Marco Polo called it 'the most splendid city in the world.' The city blends natural scenery with 2,200 years of history, modern tech industry (Alibaba HQ), and China's finest green tea. Hangzhou was the southern Song Dynasty capital and retains immense cultural importance.
UNESCO World Heritage site and Hangzhou's soul. The lake features ten classic scenic spots including Broken Bridge, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, and Leifeng Pagoda. A dawn walk or evening boat ride reveals why Chinese poets called it 'paradise on earth.'
Hours: 全天开放
Admission: Free
One of China's most significant Buddhist temples, founded 1,700 years ago. The adjacent Feilai Peak contains 470+ Buddhist stone carvings from the Yuan and Song dynasties. The temple's Hall of the Heavenly King houses a remarkable Maitreya statue.
Hours: 7:00–18:15
Admission: ¥75 (temple+peak)
The source of China's most famous green tea, grown on terraced hillsides west of West Lake. Visit Meijiawu village for tea tasting and see the traditional roasting process. Spring (March-April) is harvest season.
Hours: 全天开放
Admission: Free (tasting ~¥50)
A 1,800-year-old pedestrian street with traditional shops, herbal medicine halls, silk stores, and snack stalls. Great for souvenirs including Longjing tea, silk, and fans.
Hours: 10:00–22:00
Admission: Free