Hangzhou 5-Day: Gardens & Water Towns

Introduction

For travelers who want to experience Hangzhou beyond the surface, this 5-day itinerary offers a deeper dive into the city’s beauty and culture.

Day 1: West Lake

• Full day: Explore West Lake by bike and boat.
• Highlights: Su Causeway, Bai Causeway, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon.

Day 2: Temples and Mountains

• Lingyin Temple: Famous Buddhist temple.
• Feilai Peak: Scenic mountain with grottoes.
• Yuhuang Mountain: Panoramic views of the city.

Day 3: Gardens and Museums

• Hangzhou Botanical Garden: Beautiful gardens.
• China National Tea Museum: Learn about tea culture.
• West Lake Museum: History of the lake.

Day 4: Day Trip

• Xixi National Wetland Park: Beautiful wetland area.
• Or: Visit nearby Shaoxing for a day.

Day 5: Food and Farewell

• Morning: Breakfast at a local market.
• Afternoon: Shopping and last-minute exploration.
• Evening: Farewell dinner with Hangzhou specialties.

Travel Tips

• Bike: Rent a bike to explore West Lake.
• Tea: Try Longjing tea in the tea villages.
• Season: Spring and autumn are the best times.

Last Updated: July 2026