Quick Answer
Misty causeways, tea hills and temples — how to spend two perfect days around Hangzhou's legendary West Lake.
Why it matters
Hangzhou's West Lake has shaped Chinese painting and poetry for a thousand years. Walk the causeways at dawn, drink Longjing tea on the hills above, and visit the forested Lingyin Temple.
TL;DR (Quick Answer)
- Best for: a refined, scenic break near Shanghai.
- Highlights: West Lake, Longjing tea villages, Lingyin Temple.
- Book it: Hangzhou & West Lake 2 Days.
The Lake That Inspired Poets
Hangzhou's West Lake has shaped Chinese painting and poetry for a thousand years. Walk the causeways at dawn, drink Longjing tea on the hills above, and visit the forested Lingyin Temple.
Easy From Shanghai
A 45–60 minute high-speed train from Shanghai makes this the perfect short escape, and it pairs beautifully with the Jiangnan water towns.
Plan This Trip
See the full day-by-day plan, pricing and inclusions on the Hangzhou & West Lake 2 Days page — every itinerary is fully customisable. Not sure it's the right fit? Take the 60-second trip quiz or message a trip designer to tailor the dates and pace.
FAQ
How far is Hangzhou from Shanghai?
About 45–60 minutes by high-speed train — an easy day trip or overnight.
What is Hangzhou famous for?
West Lake, Longjing (Dragon Well) green tea, silk, and the forested Lingyin Temple.
How many days do I need in Hangzhou?
Two days covers West Lake, a tea village and a temple at a relaxed pace.
