Q: What is Hangzhou known for?
A: Hangzhou is known for its West Lake, tea, silk, and traditional culture... West Lake has been a once-in-a-lifetime destination on Chinese travelers' lists for centuries and also a favorite of ancient emperors. It is the birthplace of Longjing tea, the most famous green tea in China; It is the capital of silk, which is soft, luxurious, and decorative; It is also home to three UNESCO world heritage sites... Hangzhou has a lot to offer.
Q: What is the best time to visit Hangzhou?
A: Hangzhou is good for year-round travel, but the most pleasant and popular seasons to visit are spring and autumn. Spring sees the most beautiful scenery around West Lake, with its peach blossoms and budding willows. The lake is clear blue and shines in the sun. Autumn offers the most agreeable weather. Comfortable temperatures and relatively dry weather will make for a pleasant tour experience.
Q: How do people pay for things in Hangzhou?
A: Now, almost all payments in Hangzhou are made via apps and online. Though traditional payment methods (cash and card) are still readily processed, they have waned in popularity among all but the older and more traditional members of society.
Q: Can I use my mobile phone in Hangzhou?
A: It is possible to purchase a SIM card upon arrival. However, we recommend that you check with your cellular provider to see what your options are.
Q: Where can I buy some silk?
A: The best place to buy silk in downtown Hangzhou is Hangzhou Silk City, 253 Xinhua Road, near Fengqi Road. There are more than 600 shops carrying a wide range of silk, from fabrics to clothing, bags, shoes, handicrafts, and more. Many of these shops also export silk products to countries around the world, and the market is known for its fine quality and reasonable prices.
Q: Are there any tourist attractions in Hangzhou that have no admission fee?
A: Hangzhou has many free tourist attractions. This differs from policies in other Chinese cities. Hangzhou has maintained its unique standards in China and has great insight into globalization by offering more attractions free of charge. West Lake, the most famous of these free tourist sites, is also the only World Heritage site in China where there is no admission fee. Besides West Lake, the museums, galleries, parks, and tea plantations are also free.