Highlights
- Photographers should aim for early morning or the last two hours before closing, when the light is best and crowds thin.
- Wear grippy shoes — surfaces are uneven and can be slippery after rain.
- Photographers should aim for early morning or the last two hours before closing, when the light is best and crowds thin.
City highlights loop
Half day — Enter early (within 30 min of opening) to stay ahead of tour groups; the main viewpoint is busiest between 10:00 and 14:00.
0.5h
Gate & visitor centre — pick up a map, check the shuttle/boat timetable
1–2h
Main viewpoint or signature sight — the photo everyone comes for
1–2h
Secondary circuit (temples, lanes, boardwalks or cable car)
0.5h
Exit & local lunch — try a regional speciality in the village or city
What to know
Getting there
Hangzhou is the gateway: high-speed rail stations and the airport connect to the rest of Zhejiang. From the city centre, a taxi or DiDi is usually the fastest option; public buses serve the main gate.
Insider tips
- Bring your own water and snacks — inside-site food is limited and marked up.
- Bring your own water and snacks — inside-site food is limited and marked up.
Where to stay
Stay in Hangzhou — a good spread of 3–4★ hotels and guesthouses from ¥250–700/night, plus hostels for backpackers.