If You Only Have 10 Days in China, Visit Hangzhou and Its Stunning West Lake

Planning your first trip to China can feel overwhelming. With only 10 days to explore, choosing the right destination is crucial. Most travelers immediately think of Beijing for its imperial landmarks, Shanghai for its futuristic skyline, or Xi’an for its Terracotta Warriors. While these cities are undoubtedly iconic, Hangzhou offers something unique: a balance of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern convenience, all wrapped in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Often described as “Heaven on Earth” by Chinese poets, Hangzhou is most famous for its UNESCO-listed West Lake (Xī Hú), but the city has much more to offer—from tea plantations and ancient temples to lively food streets and nearby water towns. With excellent transportation links, particularly the high-speed train from Shanghai that takes just 45 minutes, Hangzhou makes an ideal choice for travelers who want to see a different side of China without the stress of rushing between overcrowded tourist hubs.

Why Hangzhou is Perfect for a Short Stay

When you have limited time in China, the goal is to find a destination that offers depth without pressure—a place where you can immerse yourself in the culture while still enjoying moments of leisure. Hangzhou provides exactly that.

Here’s what sets it apart:

• UNESCO-listed West Lake – A masterpiece of classical Chinese landscape design, celebrated for centuries in poetry, art, and song.
• Rich cultural heritage – From Lingyin Temple’s Buddhist traditions to centuries-old silk markets and Longjing tea plantations.
• Convenient transportation – High-speed rail makes day trips and multi-city itineraries seamless.
• Relaxed pace – Compared to Beijing or Shanghai, Hangzhou feels calmer, greener, and more laid-back.

Must-See Attractions in Hangzhou

1. West Lake (Xī Hú)

The heart and soul of Hangzhou, West Lake is one of China’s most celebrated landscapes. Its calm waters, willow-lined causeways, and historic pagodas have inspired countless artists. Whether you explore on foot, by bike, or on a traditional boat, the lake reveals different charms throughout the day.

Highlights include:

• Leifeng Pagoda – An iconic landmark with panoramic lake views.
• Three Pools Mirroring the Moon – Small islets that create a postcard-perfect scene, especially at sunset.
• Broken Bridge – A spot steeped in romantic legends, particularly striking under winter snow.
• Evening light shows – A mesmerizing display that blends music, dance, and reflections on the lake.

2. Lingyin Temple & Feilai Feng Grottoes

Dating back to the 4th century, Lingyin Temple is one of China’s most important Buddhist temples. Surrounded by forested hills and hundreds of stone carvings at Feilai Feng, it’s a spiritual and cultural experience that combines history with natural beauty.

3. Longjing Tea Plantations

Hangzhou is the birthplace of Dragon Well (Longjing) tea, often regarded as China’s finest green tea. Visiting the plantations allows you to see how the leaves are cultivated, try your hand at tea-picking, and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony overlooking terraced fields.

4. Qinghefang Ancient Street

For a taste of old Hangzhou, head to Qinghefang Street, a lively pedestrian area where traditional shops sell silk, herbal remedies, local crafts, and street snacks. It’s an excellent place for souvenir shopping and people-watching.

Suggested 3–4 Day Itinerary in Hangzhou

• Day 1: Stroll or cycle around West Lake, take a boat ride, and end the evening with the famous water and light show.
• Day 2: Visit Lingyin Temple in the morning, then head to the Longjing tea fields for a relaxed afternoon tea-tasting experience.
• Day 3: Explore Qinghefang Ancient Street, the China National Silk Museum, and sample local Hangzhou cuisine like Dongpo pork and West Lake fish in vinegar sauce.
• Day 4: Take a day trip to nearby water towns such as Wuzhen or Xitang, known for their canals, stone bridges, and historic homes.

Why Choose Hangzhou Over Beijing, Shanghai, or Xi’an?

Beijing offers iconic sights like the Great Wall and Forbidden City, but crowds and heavy traffic can make it overwhelming.

Shanghai dazzles with modern skyscrapers and nightlife but can feel less authentically “Chinese” to first-time visitors.

Xi’an is historically significant, especially for the Terracotta Warriors, but requires extra travel time to fully enjoy.

Hangzhou strikes the perfect balance: it’s big enough to feel dynamic but small enough to be approachable. With its lush landscapes, ancient heritage, and slower pace, it gives travelers a taste of both China’s history and natural charm in just a few days.

Final Recommendation

For a 10-day trip to China, dedicating 3–4 days in Hangzhou and combining it with Shanghai or Beijing is a winning strategy. The West Lake alone makes it worth the visit, but it’s the combination of tea fields, temples, cuisine, and cultural experiences that will leave lasting memories.

Hangzhou may not always be the first city that comes to mind when planning a short visit to China, but once you’ve experienced its lakeside beauty and timeless charm, you’ll understand why poets and emperors praised it for centuries. For first-time travelers who want an authentic yet relaxing introduction to China, Hangzhou truly delivers.