Things To Do
in Zhexiang

Zhexiang, located in eastern China, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. The province offers a mix of ancient temples, picturesque tea plantations, and vibrant urban centers. Traditionally known for its silk production, Zhexiang is a hub of craftsmanship and local cuisine.

Visitors can explore scenic waterways, lush mountains, and bustling markets that capture the essence of Chinese history and modernity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Hangzhou West Lake, where you can take a leisurely boat ride and explore the surrounding gardens.

afternoon
:

Visit the Lingyin Temple, one of the largest and wealthiest Buddhist temples in China, and admire the intricate carvings and serene atmosphere.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Hangzhou cuisine dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll along the scenic West Lake promenade.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Life
morning
:

Head to the Xixi National Wetland Park for a morning of birdwatching and peaceful walks through the lush wetlands.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, sampling street food and purchasing handmade crafts, particularly silk products.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local eatery, then experience a tea ceremony to learn about the region's famous tea culture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee at a café$3
🚌Public transportation ticket$0.50
🛍️Souvenirs from markets$10
🏨Budget hotel per night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine with diverse options.
  • Summer can be hot and crowded.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Limited vegetarian and gluten-free options in some restaurants.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我不吃肉" - I don't eat meat.
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Zhexiang

Visit one of these nice places.

West Lake

A UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for capturing stunning landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Lingyin Temple

A beautiful temple with intricate architecture and serene surroundings, ideal for cultural photography.

Xixi Wetlands

A scenic area with unique flora and fauna, offering opportunities for wildlife photography and tranquil scenery.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zhexiang

Zhexiang is a culinary paradise, famous for its delicate flavors and diverse dishes that reflect its rich cultural history.

Zhexiang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dongpo Pork

A famous dish made of braised pork belly, known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Must-Try!

Longjing Shrimp

Stir-fried shrimp with Longjing tea leaves, offering a unique blend of seafood and tea flavors.

Beggar's Chicken

Chicken wrapped in lotus leaves and baked in clay, resulting in tender meat infused with aromatic herbs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hefang Street

A historic street lined with food stalls and shops, offering local snacks such as rice cakes and mooncakes.

Xihu Food Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and a variety of street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zhexiang has a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, while winter (December to February) is cold, with occasional snow, particularly in higher elevations.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important in Chinese culture; use polite forms of address.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles incense offerings.

Public Behavior

Keep voices low and avoid public displays of affection, as these are not commonly accepted in more traditional settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zhexiang is generally considered safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure are advisable. It's essential to be cautious of petty theft in crowded areas and public transportation.

Tipping in Zhexiang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in China, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; ensure you have one or cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this a beautiful time to visit, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid, summer can be busy with tourists; early mornings or late evenings are ideal for outings.

Autumn

Cooler weather and vibrant fall foliage create stunning landscapes, making it a great time for photography.

Winter

Cold but less crowded, winter offers a chance to enjoy the serene beauty of the region, especially around the lakes.

Nightlife Guide

Zhexiang at Night

Zhexiang's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with options ranging from traditional tea houses to modern bars and clubs. Hangzhou offers a lively atmosphere with live music venues and dance clubs, particularly around the West Lake area. Night markets provide a great place to sample local street food while enjoying the bustling ambiance. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting a local tea house for a serene evening of tea tasting and cultural performances.

Hiking in Zhexiang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Qiantang

A popular hiking destination offering trails with varying difficulty levels and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Lingyin Scenic Area

Features several hiking trails that meander through beautiful forests, ancient temples, and breathtaking views of West Lake.

Airports

How to reach Zhexiang by plane.

Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport

Located about 30 km from downtown Hangzhou, this airport offers domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zhexiang, particularly in cities like Hangzhou, is quite walkable. Many attractions, especially around West Lake, are within walking distance of each other. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly areas are common. However, in more rural or suburban areas, walking may be less convenient due to less infrastructure.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Zhexiang, Han Chinese culture and traditions dominate the region.

Zhejiang Minority Groups

A small but significant number of minority groups, such as the She and Hui people, contribute to the cultural diversity of the province.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis

Widely popular in China, table tennis is played in parks and clubs, showcasing the local passion for the sport.

Badminton

Another favorite pastime, badminton is commonly played in public spaces, particularly in the mornings and evenings.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zhexiang can be congested, especially in urban areas during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses, subways, and taxis, which are widely used and affordable. Ride-hailing apps are also popular, and it's advisable to download them for convenience. Biking is a viable option in many areas, with bike-sharing programs available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhexiang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask if meat broth is used in cooking.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's best to communicate dietary needs clearly at restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Zhexiang is accessible, with numerous hospitals and clinics available, particularly in urban areas. Major hospitals have English-speaking staff, but it's advisable to have a basic understanding of Mandarin for better communication. Health insurance that covers international travel is recommended, as out-of-pocket expenses can vary widely.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide