Frequent Asked Questions

Hangzhou, often referred to as "Heaven on Earth," is renowned for several key attractions and cultural aspects:  

Natural Beauty:

• West Lake: This iconic lake is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its picturesque scenery, including bridges, pagodas, and gardens.  

• Longjing Tea Plantations: Hangzhou is the birthplace of Longjing tea, one of China's most famous green teas. The tea plantations offer stunning views and a chance to experience traditional tea culture.  

Cultural Heritage:

• Historical Sites: The city boasts ....more

Yes, Hangzhou is relatively close to Shanghai. The two cities are about 170 kilometers (105 miles) apart, making them a short distance away from each other by Chinese standards.

• By train: You can travel from Shanghai to Hangzhou in about 1 to 1.5 hours using the high-speed train, which is a very convenient and popular mode of transport.

• By car: The drive usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

This proximity...more

The official language of China is Standard Chinese, also known as Mandarin. However, in Hangzhou, you may also encounter people speaking Wu Chinese, a regional dialect.

Here are some additional details about the languages spoken in Hangzhou:

• Standard Chinese (Mandarin): 

This is the official language of China and is widely understood and spoken in Hangzhou. It is the language of government, education, and ...more

Absolutely, Hangzhou is definitely worth visiting! Often referred to as "Paradise on Earth," it's a city steeped in history and natural beauty.

Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or food, Hangzhou has something to offer. It's a great place to relax, unwind, and immerse yourself in Chinese culture.

It's a city renowned for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance. Here are some reasons why Hangzhou is a must-see destination:

1. West Lake (西湖)

West Lake is perhaps the most famous attraction in Hangzhou and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's known for its stunning scenery, including serene waters, picturesque islands, traditional bridges, and lush greenery. Whether you are strolling along the lakeside, taking a boat ride, or exploring temples and pagodas nearby...more

The bullet train (high-speed rail) from Shanghai to Hangzhou is very fast and efficient. The journey typically takes between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the specific train service.

Speed and Travel Time:

• The high-speed trains on this route travel at speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph), although the exact speed may vary depending on the specific type of train and track conditions.

• The trains run frequently throughout the day, with departures approximately every 10 to 15 minutes during...more

No, Hangzhou is generally classified as a Tier 2 city in China, although it is one of the most important and rapidly growing cities in the country.

What Does "Tier 1" and "Tier 2" Mean in China?

China's cities are often categorized into tiers based on their economic development, infrastructure, international influence, and overall quality of life.

• Tier 1 cities: These are the most developed and international cities in China. They include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. These cities are major economic, financial, and cultural hubs, with a very high level of urbanization and international...more