Hangzhou China Video

Hangzhou China Walking Tour: See the City on Foot

Hangzhou, located in eastern China, is a city known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. With its picturesque West Lake, historic temples, and vibrant markets, Hangzhou offers a wealth of attractions to explore. One of the best ways to experience the charm of the city is through a walking tour. By strolling through its streets, you can immerse yourself in the local culture, discover hidden gems, and appreciate the unique blend of old and new that defines Hangzhou. This article presents the ultimate Hangzhou China walking tour, providing you with a detailed itinerary to see the city on foot.

Hangzhou West Lake

Start your walking tour at the iconic Hangzhou West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city’s most famous attraction. Spanning an area of 5.6 square kilometers, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery, pagodas, and historic temples. Take a leisurely stroll along the lake’s promenade, enjoying the serene atmosphere and breathtaking views. Don’t miss the chance to take a boat ride on the lake or visit one of the many islands within it, such as the scenic Three Pools Mirroring the Moon.

• Leifeng Pagoda: Admire the Leifeng Pagoda, located on the southern shore of West Lake. This five-story pagoda offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding area.
• Su Causeway: Walk along the Su Causeway, a man-made embankment that stretches across West Lake. The causeway is lined with beautiful willow trees and offers picturesque views of the lake.
• Temple of the Soul’s Retreat: Visit the Temple of the Soul’s Retreat, also known as Linyin Temple, situated near the West Lake. This Buddhist temple is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning architecture.

Hangzhou Tea Plantations

Continue your walking tour by exploring the tea plantations in the outskirts of Hangzhou. The city is famous for its Longjing tea, known for its delicate flavor and high quality. Take a leisurely walk through the tea fields, learn about the tea-making process, and savor a cup of freshly brewed Longjing tea.

• Meijiawu Tea Village: Visit Meijiawu Tea Village, a popular destination for tea enthusiasts. Explore the tea gardens, witness the tea-picking process, and enjoy a tea tasting session.
• Dragon Well Tea Museum: Discover the history and culture of Longjing tea at the Dragon Well Tea Museum. Learn about the tea production techniques and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding tea plantations.
• Hupao Spring: Take a walk to Hupao Spring, also known as Tiger Spring, located near the tea plantations. This natural spring is believed to have therapeutic properties and is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Hangzhou Grand Canal

Next, explore the historic Hangzhou Grand Canal, the longest and oldest canal in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site played a significant role in the city’s development and continues to be a bustling waterway. Stroll along the canal’s banks, observe the traditional boats and buildings, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

• Gongchen Bridge: Cross the Gongchen Bridge, a famous landmark on the Grand Canal. This stone bridge offers a great vantage point to admire the canal and the surrounding architecture.
• Wulin Square: Visit Wulin Square, a lively area near the Grand Canal. Explore the shops, cafes, and restaurants, and immerse yourself in the local urban culture.
• Hangzhou Canal Museum: Learn about the history and significance of the Grand Canal at the Hangzhou Canal Museum. Discover artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that showcase the canal’s importance in Chinese history.

Hefang Street

Make your way to Hefang Street, a vibrant pedestrian street in the heart of Hangzhou. This historic street is lined with traditional shops, food stalls, and cultural attractions, offering a glimpse into the city’s past.

• Wangxingji Fan Store: Visit the Wangxingji Fan Store, a famous shop that specializes in handcrafted fans. Admire the intricate designs and choose a unique souvenir to take home.
• Chinese Medicine Museum: Explore the Chinese Medicine Museum, located on Hefang Street. Learn about traditional Chinese medicine practices and discover the healing properties of various herbs and remedies.
• Snack Street: Indulge in the local street food at Hefang Street’s Snack Street. Sample a variety of traditional snacks, such as stinky tofu, dumplings, and fried dough twists.

Lingyin Temple

Continue your walking tour by visiting Lingyin Temple, one of the most significant Buddhist temples in China. Nestled amidst lush mountains, this ancient temple complex offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

• Great Hall of the Heavenly Kings: Explore the Great Hall of the Heavenly Kings, the main hall of Lingyin Temple. Admire the intricate Buddhist sculptures and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance.
• Feilai Peak: Hike up Feilai Peak, a scenic spot within Lingyin Temple. Marvel at the numerous Buddhist carvings and enjoy panoramic views of the temple complex and surrounding nature.
• Temple Tea House: Relax at the Temple Tea House, located within Lingyin Temple. Sip on a cup of tea while enjoying the tranquil surroundings and reflecting on your journey.

Qinghefang Ancient Street

Conclude your walking tour at Qinghefang Ancient Street, a well-preserved street that showcases the city’s traditional architecture and culture. Wander through the narrow alleys, browse the shops selling handicrafts, and savor local delicacies.

• Wushan Square: Start your exploration at Wushan Square, located at the entrance of Qinghefang Ancient Street. Admire the statue of General Yue Fei, a national hero, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
• Ming and Qing Dynasty Street: Walk along the Ming and Qing Dynasty Street, a section of Qinghefang Ancient Street that features buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Marvel at the intricate architectural details and learn about the city’s history.
• Fanghuichun Tea House: Take a break at the Fanghuichun Tea House, a historic tea house on Qinghefang Ancient Street. Enjoy a cup of tea while appreciating the traditional Chinese decor and serene ambiance.

Conclusion

A walking tour of Hangzhou allows you to truly experience the city’s beauty, history, and culture. From the scenic West Lake to the tea plantations, historic canals, and charming streets, each step reveals a new facet of Hangzhou’s charm. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or foodie, Hangzhou offers something for everyone. So put on your most comfortable shoes and embark on the ultimate Hangzhou China walking tour to discover the wonders of this enchanting city.

References

• hangzhou.com.cn
• travelchinaguide.com
• lonelyplanet.com
• chinahighlights.com