Free travel audio guide to visit Hangzhou's must-see spots

The soundtrack of your travel to Hangzhou

Don't wait any longer to immerse yourself in the magic of Hangzhou! Download our free tour audio guide now and start planning your next adventure. Without schedules, without groups, at your own pace... to discover what things to do, see or visit in Hangzhou, whether you are just passing through or staying for several days.

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Our audio guide will accompany you in every corner of Hangzhou, giving you privileged information and secrets that only an expert would know. Let your ears guide you and transform your trip into an unforgettable experience! It doesn't matter if you are an experienced traveller or a newcomer, this audio guide is perfect for everyone. Download it now and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Hangzhou!

About the city of Hangzhou: Your comprehensive guide

Imagine exploring a city steeped in ancient history, where traditional culture and modernity blend seamlessly. Here, architectural marvels tell tales of dynasties long gone, and every corner is a window into a rich cultural tapestry. The iconic West Lake, a symbol of timeless beauty, is a must-visit, offering serene views that have inspired poets and painters for centuries. And let's not forget the local cuisine! It's a delightful journey through unique flavors and culinary traditions that promise to tantalize your taste buds. Get ready for an unforgettable experience in this gem of a city!

Gastronomy: Delicious Discoveries

Hangzhou's culinary scene is as enchanting as its scenic landscapes. Here's a food lover's guide to the must-try local dishes and drinks in this remarkable city.

First on the list is the renowned ""West Lake Fish in Sweet and Sour Sauce."" This dish features a tender grass carp from West Lake, lightly fried and then bathed in a delightful sweet and sour sauce. The unique preparation method ensures the fish remains succulent and flavorful.

Next is ""Dongpo Pork,"" a slow-cooked, braised pork belly named after the famous poet Su Dongpo. The pork is incredibly soft, melting in your mouth with each bite. Its rich flavors are a testament to the deep culinary heritage of the region.

For soup lovers, ""Beggar's Chicken"" is a must. It's a whole chicken stuffed with herbs and spices, wrapped in lotus leaves and clay, and slow-cooked to perfection. The result is a tender, aromatic, and moist chicken dish, unlike anything you've tasted before.

Vegetarians should try ""Longjing Shrimp,"" which combines fresh river shrimps with Longjing, one of China's most famous teas. The tea adds a subtle, refreshing flavor to the delicate shrimps, making it a unique culinary experience.

Don't forget to try ""Sister Song's Fish Broth,"" a soup made with freshwater fish, bamboo shoots, and ham. It's a light yet flavorful broth that perfectly captures the essence of Hangzhou's traditional cooking.

For a snack or a light meal, ""Hangzhou Xiaolongbao,"" similar to Shanghai's famous soup dumplings, are a delight. These small, steamed buns are filled with juicy pork and rich broth, bursting with flavor at first bite.

On the sweeter side, ""Lotus Root Stuffed with Glutinous Rice"" is a dessert not to be missed. The lotus root's natural sweetness complements the sticky, aromatic rice, creating a delightful treat.

When it comes to drinks, Hangzhou is famous for its Longjing (Dragon Well) tea. This green tea is known for its gentle, sweet flavor and is often considered one of the best in China. A visit to a local tea house to experience a traditional tea ceremony is highly recommended.

Also, try the local ""Jiuqu Hongmei,"" a type of wine made from red plum and grains. It's sweet, fragrant, and a perfect accompaniment to Hangzhou's rich dishes.

Remember, Hangzhou is not just about the iconic dishes but also about where you eat them. The city is dotted with both modern and traditional restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience. And don't worry, at each spot of the audio guide, we'll give you the nearest recommended restaurants according to Google's user opinions, ensuring you have the best gastronomic experience tailored to your location. Happy eating!

Transportation and getting around the city

Hangzhou, renowned for its natural beauty and historical heritage, is a delight to explore. When you arrive at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, you have several options to reach the city center. The most convenient is the airport shuttle bus, which departs every 30 minutes and takes you directly to various major locations in Hangzhou. If you prefer a more personalized approach, taxis are readily available; just make sure the meter is running to avoid any surprises in fare.

Once you're in the city, public transport is your best friend. Hangzhou's metro system is efficient and easy to navigate, covering major tourist attractions and commercial areas. Buses are another great option, offering extensive coverage, though they can be a bit more challenging to figure out if you don't speak Mandarin.

For short distances, nothing beats walking in Hangzhou. Areas like the West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are perfect for leisurely strolls. The lake's surroundings are pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to soak in the serene atmosphere and stunning scenery.

If you're looking to cover multiple sights in a short time, consider hopping on a tour bus. Tickets can be purchased at major tourist spots or booked through your hotel. These buses often offer guided tours in multiple languages, providing a comprehensive overview of Hangzhou's rich culture and history.

Now, for some practical travel tips: In Hangzhou, carrying some cash is advisable, as smaller vendors and local markets might not accept cards. The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Most large stores and restaurants, however, do accept credit cards, so it's a good balance to have both.

Regarding electricity, China uses type A, C, and I sockets, and the standard voltage is 220V. It's a good idea to bring a universal adapter to ensure all your electronic devices can be charged without any issues.

Exploring Hangzhou is an experience filled with delightful surprises, so enjoy your journey through this captivating city!

Key spots included in our audio guide and grouped for your 1, 3, 5-day trip or more:

1d : West Lake . Lingyin Temple . Leifeng Pagoda . He Fang Street .

3d : West Lake . Lingyin Temple . Leifeng Pagoda . He Fang Street . Xixi National Wetland Park . Hangzhou Botanical Garden . China National Silk Museum . Hangzhou Songcheng . Six Harmonies Pagoda . Former Residence of Hu Xueyan . Baochu Pagoda . Qinghefang Ancient Street .

5d : West Lake . Lingyin Temple . Leifeng Pagoda . He Fang Street . Xixi National Wetland Park . Hangzhou Botanical Garden . China National Silk Museum . Hangzhou Songcheng . Six Harmonies Pagoda . Former Residence of Hu Xueyan . Baochu Pagoda . Qinghefang Ancient Street . Tea Village in Longjing . Wuzhen Water Town . Hangzhou Grand Canal . Zhejiang Provincial Museum . Solitary Hill - Gu Shan . Yunqi Bamboo Path . Nine Creeks Meandering Through a Misty Forest . The Broken Bridge . Xiang Lake .

All : West Lake . Lingyin Temple . Leifeng Pagoda . He Fang Street . Xixi National Wetland Park . Hangzhou Botanical Garden . China National Silk Museum . Hangzhou Songcheng . Six Harmonies Pagoda . Former Residence of Hu Xueyan . Baochu Pagoda . Qinghefang Ancient Street . Tea Village in Longjing . Wuzhen Water Town . Hangzhou Grand Canal . Zhejiang Provincial Museum . Solitary Hill - Gu Shan . Yunqi Bamboo Path . Nine Creeks Meandering Through a Misty Forest . The Broken Bridge . Xiang Lake . Hangzhou Zoo . Hangzhou Underwater World . Chenghuang Pavilion .