2 Days Hangzhou History & Scenic Wonders Tour

• West Lake--Leifeng Pagoda--Lingyin Temple--Qinghefang Street--Grand Canal--Hangzhou Canal Night Cruise
• 4+Stars Hotels
• Breakfast & Lunch

After breakfast, depart for West Lake, one of China's most iconic and poetic destinations. Historically known by many names—Wulin Waters, Qiantang Lake, and Mingsheng Lake—West Lake gained its current name for lying to the west of Hangzhou. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is steeped in history and myth, with classical Chinese gardens, causeways, pagodas, and countless poems from ancient poets such as Bai Juyi and Su Dongpo.

Famous legends such as Madam White Snake, Jigong the Monk, and Li Huiniang have shaped the romantic and mysterious aura of West Lake. Don't miss landmarks like Broken Bridge (Duanqiao Canxue), where melting snow creates a poetic illusion of a disconnected bridge, and Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (Santanyinyue), known for the magical interplay of moonlight and reflections.

Next, visit the historic Leifeng Pagoda, first built in 971 AD by King Qian Chu of the Wuyue Kingdom. It is most well-known for its association with the Legend of the White Snake, one of China’s Four Great Folktales, which turned the pagoda into a cultural symbol of tragic love and literary inspiration.

Continue to Lingyin Temple, one of the ten most renowned ancient Buddhist temples in China. As a vital site for Chan Buddhism, it hosts regular rituals, chanting sessions, and meditation activities, attracting pilgrims and visitors from around the world who seek spiritual insight and serenity.

Optional Cultural Experiences (Self-paid):

Luxury Painted Boat Ride: Glide along West Lake in an ornate, decorated boat. Comfortable and elegant, it's a peaceful way to view the lake’s scenery, perfect for family or group travelers.

Hand-rowed Wooden Boat Ride: Let a traditionally dressed boatman or boatwoman row you through West Lake while sharing tales and legends of the area.

West Lake Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience: Visit the West Lake Community Cultural Center for hands-on workshops like Wangxingji Fan-making and Zhang Xiaoquan Scissor forging. Learn from master artisans and create your own cultural souvenir.

Travel Tip:

West Lake is vast and rich in attractions. If you're deeply interested in exploring its beauty and stories, consider dedicating a full day to a personalized West Lake City Walk.

In the afternoon, head to Qinghefang Street again, this time to stroll freely and enjoy a food-focused exploration. Discover the flavors of Hangzhou at your own pace.

Recommended Local Dishes:

West Lake Vinegar Fish, Dongpo Pork, Longjing Shrimp, Beggar’s Chicken, and Hangzhou Three Delicacies.

Afterward, proceed to the Grand Canal, an ancient engineering marvel. First built in 486 BC and expanded over centuries through the Sui, Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties, the Grand Canal is the longest and one of the oldest man-made waterways in the world. It remains in use today, representing the brilliance of ancient Chinese engineering.

Evening Option:

Hangzhou Grand Canal Night Cruise. In the evening, board a night cruise at Wulinmen Pier. Your route includes highlights like the West Lake Cultural Plaza, Chaohui Bridge, Chao Wang Bridge, the Imperial Wharf, and the iconic Gongchen Bridge, known as the “First Ancient Bridge of Jiangnan.” Along the way, admire the beautiful lightscape curated by world-renowned designer Roger Narboni, capturing the charm of Jiangnan's water towns in a symphony of shadow and light.