Top 5: Outdoor Spots in Hangzhou, China

Located about two hours from Shanghai, Hangzhou is a bustling, up-and-coming city. Situated throughout the city, visitors will find numerous popular outdoor spots to escape the fast-paced streets.

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West Lake

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is divided into five sections by three causeways. The expansive gardens surrounding the lake boast pagodas, temples and pathways. Take a boat tour around West Lake for about $30.

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Xixi National Wetland Park

Situated on 2,800 acres, Xixi National Wetland Park is comprised of 70 percent water. Boasting a wide variety of wildlife and plant life, it would take up to two days to walk the entire park.

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“The Flying Peak”

Feilai Feng (“The Flying Peak”) is a peak among the Wulin Mountains near the Lingyin Temple. The limestone peak features grottos, caves and more than 300 Buddha figures carved into the stone.

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Grand Canal

Another Hangzhou UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Grand Canal spans more than 1,100 miles. The manmade waterway, which starts in Beijing, is the largest of its kind in the world. The oldest parts of the canal date back to the fifth century.

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Meijiawu Tea Plantation

Located in the hilly area near the West Lake District, the Meijiawu Tea Plantation is one of the top producers of Hangzhou’s famous Longjing tea in the city. The picturesque plantation boasts dozens of rows of tea plants spanning up and down the hills.