Hangzhou 5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Itinerary

Start with a visit to the serene Lingyin Temple, one of the most important and beautiful Buddhist temples in China. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll through the adjacent Fei Lai Feng (Flying Peak) to admire the ancient stone carvings. For a mid-morning pick-me-up, enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea at the tranquil Meijiawu Tea Village. Learn about the tea-making process and savor the flavors of local green tea. For lunch, head to Zhi Wei Guan to enjoy a refined dining experience featuring classic Hangzhou dishes in an elegant setting.

Spend your afternoon exploring the lush landscapes and diverse plant species at the Hangzhou Botanical Garden. Take a leisurely walk or relax in the peaceful surroundings. Later, visit the China National Silk Museum (Zhongguo Chaye Bowuguan) to learn about the history of silk and the intricate process of silk production.

For dinner, savor the flavors of traditional Hangzhou cuisine at Xin Bai Lu Restaurant. End your day with a tranquil walk around the Red Carp Pond, where the setting sun casts a warm glow on the water and surrounding pavilions.

Embark on a full-day excursion to the picturesque Wuzhen Water Town. Explore the ancient stone bridges, canals, and traditional buildings of this well-preserved water town. Enjoy a morning snack at a local eatery to experience the flavors of Wuzhen.

After returning to Hangzhou, take a trip to the charming Zhouzhuang Water Town. Stroll along the waterways and visit the historic residences and buildings that have stood for centuries. For lunch, indulge in the regional cuisine at a waterside restaurant in Zhouzhuang.

Relax and enjoy a leisurely evening in Hangzhou. Dine at Wai Po Jia, a restaurant known for its homestyle cooking and welcoming atmosphere. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the Grand Canal, admiring the historic architecture and the gentle flow of the water.

Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Hangzhou with a visit to the National Tea Museum (Zhongguo Chaye Bowuguan). Explore the museum's extensive collection and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony. For breakfast, enjoy the ambiance and a cup of tea at a local teahouse.

Visit the Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Hu Qing Yu Tang) to learn about the ancient practice of Chinese medicine. Explore the exhibits and the traditional architecture of the museum. For lunch, indulge in a hot pot experience at the famous Hai Di Lao Hot Pot, known for its excellent service and quality ingredients.

Enjoy a relaxing evening cruise on the Qiantang River Bridge. Take in the scenic views of the river and the city as the lights come on. For dinner, try some local specialties at a restaurant with a view of the river.

Start your final day with a visit to the tranquil Solitary Hill (Gu Shan). Climb to the top for panoramic views of West Lake and the surrounding area. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a lakeside cafe.

Spend your afternoon at the Meijiawu Tea Village, where you can immerse yourself in the tea culture of Hangzhou. Enjoy a guided tour, learn about the tea-making process, and participate in a tea tasting session. For lunch, indulge in local specialties at a tea house with a view of the village's lush green hills.

Conclude your Hangzhou journey with a sumptuous dinner at a restaurant of your choice, reflecting on the memories and flavors of this culturally rich city.