How to get to Hangzhou

Hangzhou is one of the most picturesque and poetic metropolises in China, often referred to as "paradise on earth." The heart and soul of the city is the legendary West Lake (Xi Hu), whose landscapes featuring elegant bridges, pagodas, and weeping willows have inspired artists and emperors for centuries.

This city is renowned not only for its natural beauty but also for its deep cultural traditions: it is here that the famous Longjing green tea is cultivated and the finest Chinese silk is produced. A trip here promises an immersion into an atmosphere of refined antiquity, where walks through tea plantations and historical sites offer a sense of true harmony.

The main aerial gateway to the region is Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, located approximately 27 km east of the city centre. It is a modern and major aviation hub, receiving numerous scheduled flights from most metropolises in China, as well as serving international destinations.

Upon arrival in Hangzhou, travellers can quickly reach the city thanks to the developed transport infrastructure. The airport is connected to the centre by metro lines, allowing you to avoid traffic congestion. Additionally, comfortable express buses and taxis are available to take tourists to their hotel or the scenic West Lake area in approximately one hour.

Rail connections make Hangzhou easily accessible for travellers from any part of the country. Thanks to an extensive network of high-speed lines, travelling here by train is often more convenient and faster than flying. Modern G-series (the fastest) and D-series trains ensure a high level of comfort and punctuality, turning the journey into a pleasant part of your trip.

Most frequently, tourists arrive here from neighbouring Shanghai: express trains run from early morning until late at night with minimal intervals, and the travel time is only about one hour. This makes it easy to plan even a one-day excursion.

The main arrival point is Hangzhou East Railway Station — a grand modern structure and a key transport hub for the region. The station is conveniently integrated into the city metro system, so you can get from the platform to the city centre or the West Lake district quickly, bypassing street traffic.

Bus services connect the region with a dense network of routes, offering an excellent alternative to trains for those who value flexible schedules and the opportunity to enjoy the views of Zhejiang Province. A journey from neighbouring Huzhou or picturesque Jiaxing will take only about an hour and a half, as these cities are separated from the destination by approximately 80–90 kilometres.

Equally popular is the route from the world-famous trading hub of Yiwu: comfortable coaches cover the distance of 140 kilometres in an average of two hours. Most intercity flights arrive at one of Hangzhou's four main bus terminals, which are integrated into the urban transport system, allowing tourists to easily continue their journey to their hotel.

Travelling by car opens up a great opportunity to enjoy the landscapes of Zhejiang Province at your own pace, bypassing public transport schedules. The road to Hangzhou from neighbouring Huzhou or the famous water town of Jiaxing will take just 1–1.5 hours, as the distance to the city centre is less than 100 kilometres via high-quality expressways.

The route from the major trade centre of Yiwu is slightly longer: the 140-kilometre journey usually requires about 2 hours. For those who do not plan to drive themselves, intercity taxis are available; the cost can vary from 400 to 600 RMB, ensuring maximum "door-to-door" comfort.

Preparing for a trip to Hangzhou requires attention to detail to ensure your journey is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible. These practical recommendations will help you feel confident in the city and avoid common tourist pitfalls.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. The climate here is humid subtropical, so light, breathable clothing is necessary in summer, while warm clothes are essential in winter as indoor spaces often lack central heating. In any season, it is worth carrying an umbrella or raincoat: the weather is changeable, and rain is not uncommon.
2. Transport. The fastest and most convenient way to get around is the metro, connecting the centre with railway stations and the airport. To pay for public transport and taxis, it is best to install the Alipay app in advance and link your bank card to it — this is the primary method of payment in the city.
3. Finances. China is a leader in digital payments. Cash is not accepted everywhere, and international Visa and Mastercard cards work predominantly in large hotels. Set up an e-wallet (Alipay or WeChat Pay) before departure to pay freely even in small shops.
4. Health and Safety. The city is safe for tourists, but there are many silent electric scooters on the streets, so be attentive when crossing the road. You should drink only bottled water. Pharmacies are marked with a green cross, but it is better to translate the names of necessary medicines into Chinese in advance.
5. Communication. Not all locals speak English, even in the service sector. Be sure to download an offline translator and maps (such as Amap or Baidu Maps), as familiar Western services may work incorrectly or be unavailable.
6. Local Etiquette. Tipping is not customary in restaurants and taxis. Restraint is appreciated: loud conversations in public places are considered bad form. Hand over and receive business cards, money, or gifts with two hands as a sign of respect to the other person.
7. What to Avoid. Be cautious of invitations to a "traditional tea ceremony" from random acquaintances in tourist zones, especially near the lake. This often turns out to be a scheme where tourists are presented with a huge bill for ordinary tea.
8. Cycling. The city operates one of the most developed public bicycle rental systems in the world. Renting a bicycle is the best way to explore the scenic embankments of West Lake at your own pace, avoiding traffic jams and crowds.

Observing these simple rules will allow you not to be distracted by everyday inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of ancient culture and natural beauty. May your acquaintance with this amazing region leave only the warmest memories!