How to Spend 2 Days in Hangzhou

Two days in Hangzhou is ample time to explore West Lake and the nearby tea villages; see a museum or two; and take a cruise down the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal. Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Hangzhou.

Day 1: West Lake and Tea Culture

**Morning:**Start the day with sunrise over the Su Causeway, one of the classic Ten Scenes of West Lake. Boat cruises typically stop at Solitary Hill (Gu Hill) and Huagang (Flower Harbor) Park Wharf, to explore Flower Harbor Park and Red Carp Pond, another one of the Ten Scenes.

**Afternoon:**Devote the afternoon to either Meijiawu Tea Village or Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea Village, both of which produce Longjing tea, one of the finest in the world. Tours typically combine lunch in a teahouse with a tea ceremony, and give time to purchase tea and visit the National Tea Museum.

**Night:**Enjoy a performance of Impressions West Lake, which uses West Lake as the stage for music, dance, singing, opera, and other cultural highlights—guarantee a seat by booking tickets in advance. Afterwards, head to Qinghefang Ancient Street, the best-preserved historic street in the city. Grab dinner, drinks, and shop for souvenirs.

Day 2: Temples, Pagodas, and Museums

**Morning:**Spend the morning at Lingyin Temple. Also known as the Temple of the Soul’s Retreat, it’s one of the oldest and most famous Buddhist temples in China. Explore the temple grounds and also Flying Peak with a guide to fully appreciate the landmark. 

**Afternoon:**Dedicate the afternoon to a museum or peaceful garden. Top choices include the China National Silk Museum or the Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Hangzhou Botanical Garden or Gou’s Villa and Garden. Afterwards, head to the Six Harmonies (Liuhe) Pagoda, which offers wonderful views over the Qiantang River. 

**Night:**Head out for a sunset or evening cruise on the Beijing–Hanghzou Grand Canal, the longest man-made waterway in the world. Admire traditional waterfront buildings along the way. Afterwards, check out one of the night markets in town, such as Wulin Night Market or Wushan Night Market. Those looking for a big night can go bar or club hopping.