Best of Hangzhou: A Comprehensive Tour of the City's Top Sights

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. West Lake (Xi Hu)

   Enjoy a relaxing cruise on West Lake, the most iconic symbol of Hangzhou and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you glide across the calm waters, surrounded by willow-lined shores, historic pagodas, and misty hills, your guide will share the stories, legends, and cultural significance behind each scenic spot. From the famous Three Pools Mirroring the Moon to the poetic inspirations of ancient scholars, every view comes alive through your guide’s engaging narration—turning a peaceful boat ride into a truly immersive cultural experience.

   60 minutes here · Admission included

2. Stroll through the picturesque gardens of Huagang Guanyu, one of the most beloved scenic spots around West Lake. Known for its elegant landscaping, blooming flowers, and vibrant koi-filled ponds, this peaceful area perfectly captures the charm of classical Chinese garden design. As you walk along shaded paths and stone bridges, your guide will share the history behind the site, the symbolism of koi fish in Chinese culture, and the best viewpoints for photos. With insightful storytelling and a relaxed pace, this visit offers a tranquil and culturally rich moment in your Hangzhou journey.

   30 minutes here · Admission included

3. Lingyin Temple

   Discover the timeless serenity of Lingyin Temple, one of the most important and historic Buddhist temples in China. Surrounded by lush forested hills, the temple offers a peaceful escape from the city. As you explore its grand halls and sacred statues, your expert guide will provide in-depth explanations of Buddhist beliefs, temple rituals, and the stories behind each architectural detail. If time and conditions allow, you may also have the opportunity to interact with monks and gain a more personal insight into their daily practices and spiritual life, making the experience even more meaningful and unique.

   120 minutes here · Admission included

4. From the Lingyin Temple, walk along a cobblestone pathway leading to Amanfayun Village, a restored Chinese village dating back hundreds of years and situated in a remote forest of camphor and bamboo. Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of the hamlet dotted with traditional dwellings and surrounded by tea fields.

   30 minutes here · Admission included

5. Longjing tea fields

   For lunch you have two options: purchase your meal at a local restaurant recommended by your guide, or head to a local tea farmer's home to prepare a meal of local delicacies such as chicken, West Lake carp, lotus root, bamboo shoots and other tasty vegetables (own expense). After lunch, Escape to the Meijiawu Tea Village, nestled among rolling green hills and lush tea plantations. Known as one of the best places to experience authentic Longjing (Dragon Well) tea culture, the village offers a glimpse into local life and traditions. As you stroll through the tea fields and quiet lanes, your guide will introduce the history of tea cultivation, explain the tea-making process, and share insights into the cultural importance of tea in China. You’ll also have the chance to relax and enjoy a fresh cup of locally grown tea. If time permits, you may even have the opportunity to interact with local tea farmers or visit their homes, adding a more personal and authentic touch to your experience.

   110 minutes here · Admission included

6. Southern Song Imperial Street

   Your final stop is Song Dynasty Imperial Street, renamed Zhongshanlu Beiduan. Walk with your guide along this road that stretches 1,310 feet (400 meters) and leads to the imperial palace of the Northern Song Dynasty (AD 960–1127). If you wish, stop at any of the snack bars that offer local delicacies and shops that sell antiques, embroidered items and silk. End your private tour with a drive back to your Hangzhou downtown hotel or the Hangzhou Train station.

   60 minutes here · Admission included

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• From Shanghai 2nd Class & Show

  Includes: Round Way Train Tickets (2nd Class), All Entrance fee (VIP Show Tickets), Private Guide & Driver Pickup included

• With Impression West Lake Show

  Includes: Private Guide, Transfer, All the Tickets (VIP Tickets for the Impression Night Show), Pick up/Drop off in Hangzhou. Pickup included

• Package Tour Without Lunch

  Without Lunch: Guide will suggest the best local restaurants based on traffic and your preferences; meals are at your own expense. Private Tour Without Lunch: Includes: Professional Guide, Private Transfer, Entrance Tickets, Pick up/Drop off. Pickup included

• Private Tour With Local Lunch

  Includes: Professional guide, Private Transfer, Skillful driver, Entrance tickets, Authentic Local Lunch Pickup included

• From Shanghai 2nd Class Train

  Train Tickets Fom Shanghai: Includes: Private Transfer, Private Guide, All the entrance fees (No Night Show), 2nd Round Way Train Tickets from Shanghai Pickup included

• Private Guide & Transfer Only

  Includes: Professional guide, Private Transfer, Skillful driver Pickup included

• From Shanghai 1st Class & Show

  Includes: 1st class round way train tickets from Shanghai, All entrance Fee (VIP Impression show), Guide & Driver Pickup included

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

cmn, en, zh-CN

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 15 travelers per booking

Operated by

China Private Tours

Know before you go

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Lunch options: Learn to cook your own Chinese lunch from local tea farmers or eat at a popular local restaurant
• Range of children's height is between 3'3" (1 meter) and 4'6" (1.4 meter)
• Please provide train station（trainNo.） or hotel information in "special requirement" at time of booking

Photos

Traveler reviews

242 verified traveler reviews for Best of Hangzhou: A Comprehensive Tour of the City's Top Sights. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.