探索杭州
Hangzhou
We’ve been to Hangzhou twice now and absolutely loved it. We’ve put together a few recommendations here based on the places that really stood out to us, along with a couple that are still on our wish list for next time to give you a good starting point if you're looking to explore while you're in town for the wedding.
West Lake (Xihu)
The West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famed for its natural beauty and classical Chinese landscape. You can explore the renowned "Ten Scenes of West Lake," simply stroll around the lake, or enjoy a boat ride from popular piers such as Broken Bridge or Hubin Park. Given boats are involved, Theodore gives his seal of approval having gone pretty much every year of his life.
Impressions West Lake Light Show
A must-see evening spectacle of light and water directed by filmmaker Zhang Yimou that combines music, dance and natural scenery. Be sure to book tickets in advance. Theodore was utterly mesmerised and sat through the whole show because it was very shiny.
Leifang Pagoda (Leifangta)
Leifeng Pagoda sits on the southern shore of the West Lake and is one of Hangzhou’s most iconic landmarks. You can climb up to get some great panoramic views of the lake and city. Theodore was too lazy on several occasions to go up there.
Hefang Street (Hefangjie)
This is a touristy and crowded pedestrian street with a variety of shops selling local snacks, crafts, souvenirs and notably there are traditional medicine shops, including the Huqing Yutang Chinese Medicine Museum, where you can learn about traditional Chinese medicine. Theodore got bored of the museum but enjoyed the snacks.
Lingyin Temple
"Temple of the Soul’s Retreat" is one of China’s oldest and prominent Buddhist temples with an enormous golden Buddha in the main hall. However, be prepared for lots of stone steps and uneven paths, which can make it challenging with a buggy or stroller. A baby carrier is a better option if you want to fully explore the temple grounds. We had to tag team with the stroller and Theodore was not happy to go all the way up.
Fei Lai Feng Scenic Area
Just across from Lingyin Temple there are Buddhist carvings (around 470) that date from the 10th to 14th centuries lining the riverbanks and hillsides. It's located on the doorstep of Amanfayun, the wedding venue. Children will enjoy spotting the carvings tucked in the caves and rocks. Theodore was really naughty the day we visited and did not do any good spotting...
Longjin Tea Fields
Hangzhou is renowned for Longjing (Dragon Well) green tea and the wedding venue is surrounded by Longjing tea plantations. There are hiking trails and quiet family-run tea shops leading from Wengjiashan Village and Dragon Well Tea Village – two of the larger villages in the plantation area.
Yunxi Zhujing Bamboo Forest
Peaceful escape just outside central Hangzhou. Shady paths through lush bamboo groves make it perfect for a relaxing stroll. It’s cool, quiet, and less crowded than other spots. Theodore loved exploring the leaves and echoing paths. A lovely nature break, especially if you’re pairing it with nearby tea plantations.
Wuzhen
Wuzhen is an ancient water town about 1.5 hours from Hangzhou, with stone bridges, canals, and traditional wooden buildings. There are lots of traditional artisan shops, tea houses and snacks and you can take a boat ride, or sip tea by the water. It’s touristy but still worth the visit. Boats were involved so Theodore was content.
XiaoHe ZhiJie
Xiaohe Zhijie is a picturesque historic street lined with beautifully preserved old houses, cafés, and boutique shops. It’s great for a stroll and a coffee break, but there’s quite a bit of shopping—not exactly thrilling for a two-year-old. Theodore got a bit restless, but it’s a nice stop if you’re in the mood to browse
Su Causeway
Named after Grant Su.. This is the reason we are having our wedding in Hangzhou.
Hangzhou Botanical Gardens
Hangzhou Botanical Gardens is a peaceful, green space perfect for families and a great spot for a picnic or a break from sightseeing. It’s stroller-friendly, quiet, and just a short walk from the tea plantations—ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
B1OCK
B1OCK is a trendy creative commercial complex. You’ll find up-and-coming local designer boutiques, cool cafés, and markets selling antique Chinese ceramics and trinkets. It’s a stylish spot for browsing, people-watching, and picking up something unique. Not ideal for toddlers (Theodore was unimpressed), but great for a fashion or design fix.
Mu Xin Art Museum
If you’re heading to Wuzhen, don’t miss the Mu Xin Art Museum—a beautifully designed space dedicated to the life and work of writer, painter, and philosopher Mu Xin. Peaceful, thought-provoking, and architecturally stunning, it’s a cultural highlight of the town. Not toddler-friendly for long visits, but a quiet, inspiring stop if you enjoy art and literature.