How to get around Hangzhou

Compared to other Chinese cities, getting around Hangzhou is quite easy. Even though the city is huge and bustling, travelling here is no challenge. Hangzhou transportation is commendable, and it makes the city a delight. If you are planning to tour Hangzhou in the near future, here are a few ideas on how to get around.

1. Hangzhou transportation

Hangzhou's popularity as a travel destination is increasing, especially since it hosted the G20 Summit in 2016. The combination of cultural significance and scenery is a huge draw for international travellers. To cater to the transportation needs of travellers, the city has implemented an excellent transportation system. Hangzhou has several transportation modes, which makes getting around easy and fun. There are several ways to explore the city's natural and historic charm. Bus, metro, bicycle and taxi are the most popular forms of transport.

2. Getting here

Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport is the primary airport that serves the city; it is also among the top ten major airports in the world. Due to its green surroundings, the airport's been named Garden Airport. The airport operates domestic flights and international flights to and from the Middle East, South Asia, Australia, North America and Europe.

3. Bicycle

You can easily rent a bicycle in Hangzhou. The city has one of the world's largest bicycle network, and they are stations all over the city – 2700 to be exact. You can rent a bike at any one of the booths near Somerset IOC Hangzhou; you will need to show your passport. After filling out the application, you'll receive a swipe card that can be used to free one of the bikes at the station. The bicycle can be returned to any booth, but it needs to be docked properly. The first hour on the bike is free, and if you manage to return the bike before the hour is up, you've just travelled around the city for nearly an hour without paying anything.

4. Bus

The bus system here is efficient, and the buses are clean. The city has a bus system with night lines, peak-hour lines, regular lines, BRT lines, sightseeing lines and holiday lines. Getting around by bus is easy if you overlook the fact that the roads are always gridlocked. The buses that read Y are tourist buses which tend to be more comfortable than regular buses. Travelling by bus is an excellent way of seeing the city in its rawest form. You can find plenty of Hangzhou accommodation close to bus stations. You can get to most of the city's attractions by bus, and the fare is reasonable.

5. Metro

Metro Line 1 connects the southeast of Hangzhou and the main bus station. The line is laid along the West Lake, and it goes on to the East Train Station. Taking Line 1 isn't going to give you a lot of sightseeing opportunities, but it is convenient. Line 2 is the link between Chaoyang and Qianjiang Road, and Line 4 connects Pengbu and Jinjiang. Hangzhou's express trains can get you to your destination in no time, and if you prefer a slower train ride, you have that option too.

6. Taxi

This is the most comfortable option and, therefore, the costliest. There are plenty of taxis to be found here at any time of the day.

7. Walking

As a tourist, you'll find this to be the best option. Most Hangzhou attractions are located near West Lake, and they are all located close to each other. You can stroll around the lake for as long as you want and take in the sights.