If Shanghai shows China’s futuristic architecture, then Hangzhou reveals its cultural heart. Locals call it the desert of China… Let’s see what Hangzhou has for you in 2026!
Just an hour away by high-speed train from Shanghai, this city feels like stepping into a softer, slower rhythm — one that’s perfect for families with kids of all ages.
When Marco Polo visited Hangzhou centuries ago, he famously called it “the finest and most splendid city in the world.” And it’s easy to see why.
From the poetic calm of West Lake to the modern skyline that reflects on its waters, Hangzhou’s landscapes and city vibes blend in perfect harmony — ancient charm meeting creative, contemporary energy.
It’s no surprise that this very city inspired Alibaba’s founder, and continues to draw travelers and innovators from all over the world.
Known as “Heaven on Earth,” Hangzhou is loved for its lush green scenery, balanced urban design, and deep cultural roots.
You can spend the morning shopping or having coffee by the lake, and by afternoon, be gliding across West Lake on a boat, surrounded by misty hills and willow trees.
It’s this beautiful contrast — nature and modern life existing side by side — that makes Hangzhou one of China’s most desirable and family-friendly cities.
We were lucky to experience Hangzhou with kids, with the help of a local friend — one of my husband’s colleagues — who guided us through temples and even joined us for dinner at a century-old, state-owned restaurant. It gave us a glimpse of how locals live, eat, and unwind — a memory that still makes Hangzhou feel special to us.
Unlike Shanghai’s high-rise buzz, Hangzhou invites you to slow down here. You can walk freely, explore safely, and let kids be curious without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
And the best part of Hangzhou?
It’s incredibly easy to reach from Shanghai — making it one of the most accessible, scenic, and safe destinations in China for first-time family travelers.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your family trip to Hangzhou — from when to visit and how to get there, to the best things to do, what to eat, and our personally created map on how to experience this city like a local.
So, is Hangzhou worth adding to your family itinerary? Let’s find out.
Why wec choose Hangzhou for our Family Trip?
Hangzhou is that rare city in China where nature, culture, and comfort come together so seamlessly that it feels made for families.
If you’ve been craving a destination that’s peaceful yet full of character—one that lets your kids run free without the stress of navigating big-city chaos—this is it.
For families with toddlers or young kids, Hangzhou’s pace is refreshingly slow. You’ll find plenty of open green spaces, stroller-friendly lakeside paths, and quiet corners perfect for picnics. English signage is common across attractions, cafes, and metro stations, making it surprisingly easy for everyone to get around.
What truly sets Hangzhou apart is its timeless blend of ancient charm and modern ease.
As one of China’s most historic cities and home to the UNESCO-listed West Lake, it offers parents the chance to introduce kids to China’s cultural roots—without compromising on comfort or convenience.
Yet beyond the history, Hangzhou is thoroughly modern.
Often called China’s startup capital, it’s clean, organized, and tech-driven—a calmer, family-friendly version of Beijing. You will appreciate the sense of safety and order, while kids delight in exploring new sights without the overwhelm of busier cities.
And of course, West Lake, Hangzhou, is the heart of it all. Whether you glide across its tranquil waters on a boat, stroll through lotus gardens, or stop for a lakeside treat, every moment feels peaceful and picture-perfect.
Just steps away, the downtown district even has a mini Tokyo-style Shibuya Crossing, where families can watch the lively pedestrian flow beneath glowing billboards—a fun, modern twist that kids often love after a quiet day by the lake.
Hangzhou is more than just a sightseeing stop—it’s a place where you can slow down, connect, and experience China’s cultural heart in a calm, safe, and enriching way.
Best Time to Visit Hangzhou with Kids
Hangzhou is one of China’s most scenic and weather-friendly cities—thanks to its massive West Lake, which keeps the climate relatively cool and breezy through much of the year. Still, like most parts of eastern China, it does have distinct seasons that you should plan around.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit with kids. Days are mild and sunny (around 60–75°F / 15–24°C), flowers are in full bloom, and the air feels fresh—perfect for stroller walks, boat rides, or exploring tea villages without much overwhelm.
Summer (June to August) can be humid but lively, especially around West Lake when the lotus flowers bloom beautifully. It’s lovely for evening walks, but the heat (up to 85–95°F / 29–35°C) can tire kids quickly. Avoid midday hikes around temples or caves, and pack plenty of water, hats, protein bars, and cooling wipes. Families usually enjoy indoor tea houses or shaded garden cafés during the day.
Winter (December to February) brings chilly but peaceful weather (around 40–55°F / 5–13°C). While you’ll need jackets, the quiet lakeside views and cozy tea houses make this a charming time to visit—especially if you prefer fewer tourists.
Hangzhou’s weather is often misty or lightly rainy, adding to its storybook charm. Showers are rarely heavy, but it’s wise to always carry a small umbrella or rain jacket—no matter the season.
For families, lightweight rain gear, sun caps, and a travel umbrella are absolute musts to carry everywhere in Hangzhou.
How to Get to Hangzhou
(and Why the Train from Shanghai Is a Hit with Families)
Most families begin their China trip in Shanghai, and that’s exactly why Hangzhou makes such an easy next stop. The Shanghai–Hangzhou high-speed train takes just one hour, offering a clean, safe, and surprisingly smooth journey—even with strollers or young kids in tow.
Trains depart from Shanghai Hongqiao Station and arrive at Hangzhou East Station, both modern, organized, and well-marked in English.
You can easily book seats online (Trip.com or China Railway’s app) or purchase tickets at the station with passports.
And Trains in China are really a hit—the spacious seating options, clean restrooms, and snack carts that kids usually love.
Once you arrive, getting around Hangzhou is simple—taxis, the Didi app, and the metro are reliable and affordable. The stations and trains are stroller-accessible, making this route a favorite for families who want to explore China without the stress of flying or long drives.
If you’re still deciding where to start your China trip, don’t miss our guide: Beijing or Shanghai—Which Is Better to Visit in China with Kids?
Getting Around Hangzhou with kids
Getting around Hangzhou is refreshingly easy, even for families visiting China for the first time. The city’s public transport is clean, organized, and English-labeled, making it simple to navigate with kids.
The metro system connects most major attractions—from West Lake and Lingyin Temple to the modern shopping areas—and stations are stroller-accessible with elevators.
Public buses are reliable too, though for families with toddlers or lots of luggage, taxis or the Didi ride-hailing app (China’s Uber equivalent) are usually the easiest choice.
Around West Lake, everything slows to a halt. The area is beautifully walkable, with shaded paths, gentle bridges, and plenty of benches for snacks or rest breaks. You can also take electric carts or boat rides—both fun, kid-friendly ways to see more without tiring little legs.
If you’re visiting with older kids, cycling is a lovely way to explore. Hangzhou was one of China’s first cities to introduce public bike sharing, and you’ll find safe cycling paths with options for tandem bikes or child seats.
Overall, Hangzhou’s layout and calm pace make it one of the easiest cities in China to explore with young kids—safe, scenic, and stress-free.
Where to Stay in Hangzhou with Kids
Choosing where to stay in Hangzhou depends on the kind of experience your family is looking for — city buzz or lakeside calm.
If you want to be close to the main attractions, stay near the city centre or West Lake. You’ll have easy access to boat rides, cafés, shopping streets, and evening walks by the water. Most hotels here are modern, well-equipped, and close to the metro — ideal if you’re traveling with young kids and want convenience at your doorstep.
For a more peaceful, nature-rich experience, consider staying near the Xixi Wetlands. This area offers a completely different side of Hangzhou — quiet, green, and incredibly refreshing. Surrounded by waterways and nature trails, it’s a wonderful spot for kids to enjoy free play outdoors, while parents can unwind away from city noise.
And don’t worry about being too far — the metro takes just about 20 minutes to reach the town centre or West Lake area.
Rooms around Xixi Wetlands are generally more spacious and budget-friendly, with many boutique stays and eco-hotels designed to blend with the natural landscape.
For families who love calm mornings, birdsong, and a bit of breathing room, this is one of the best places to stay in Hangzhou with kids.
Best Things to Do in Hangzhou with Kids
Hangzhou perfectly blends culture, calm, and creativity, making it one of China’s most rewarding cities for families. From lake cruises and night markets to ancient streets and green tea hills, the city invites you to slow down here while keeping kids happily engaged.
Here’s what to add to your Hangzhou family itinerary to get the most out of Chinese culture.
1. West Lake – The Heart of Hangzhou
No visit to Hangzhou is complete without experiencing West Lake, the city’s UNESCO-listed centerpiece. Also known as Xihu, take a boat cruise to see its willow-framed islands, walk along the Su Causeway, or stop at Flower Harbor Park for fish feeding and photos.
Early mornings are calm and stroller-friendly, while evenings glow with reflections of pagodas and lanterns.
Just across the lakeside, the shopping street near West Lake is perfect for families — wide sidewalks, small toy stalls, and cafés where you can sip coffee or authentic Chinese tea while kids enjoy ice cream or bubbles.
2. Wulin Night Market – Family Street Food Adventure
After sunset, head to Wulin Night Market, where the air fills with the smell of dumplings and grilled seafood. It’s a street food paradise for parents who want to taste local Hangzhou snacks safely — try fried pancakes, tofu skewers, and fresh juices.
Most stalls open early evening, so it’s perfect for kids before bedtime.
3. Xiahe District – Hip, Local, and Full of Life
If you love places that blend history with modern creativity, explore Xiahe, one of Hangzhou’s coolest areas. This district, built around an old oil factory, has been turned into a lively Xiahe Park filled with art, tea houses, and quirky restaurants.
You can relax with a cup of local tea while kids enjoy open spaces and murals. It’s a little busier and more touristy, but the local vibes make it fun and safe.
4. Hefang Street – Old Hangzhou Charm
For something more traditional, stroll down Hefang Street, one of the oldest streets in Hangzhou. It’s lined with old-style shops, tea houses, and snack stalls, giving a real glimpse into local culture. Evenings here are cooler and less crowded than Xiahe, perfect for visiting with kids.
Try roasted sweet potatoes, seaweed crisps, or crispy Chinese pancakes from local vendors — all mild, kid-friendly snacks of Hangzhou.
5. The Old Town & Grand Canal – History and Calm
Hangzhou’s Old Town developed around the Grand Canal, the world’s longest man-made waterway, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hangzhou.
Dating back to 500 BC, this canal once connected Beijing with southern China. Today, it’s a wonderful place to walk with kids — especially in the evening when the canal lights reflect on the water.
Don’t miss the Gongchen Bridge, an iconic photo spot, and the nearby Zhang Daxian Temple, a small but heartwarming temple built in honor of a doctor who treated people for free. The area is dotted with canal-facing tea houses and cafés, where families can relax between sightseeing stops.
6. Leifeng Pagoda – Scenic, Story-Filled, and Easy
This ancient pagoda by West Lake is one of Hangzhou’s most family-friendly cultural sites. There’s a glass elevator to the top, so no steep climbs for kids, and the views of the lake are incredible. Inside, families can explore exhibits about the famous Legend of the White Snake, a Chinese folktale kids usually love hearing.
7. Lingyin Temple – Ancient, Grand, and Awe-Inspiring
One of the top 10 Buddhist temples in China, Lingyin Temple is as spiritual as it is beautiful. Get there early — around sunrise (6:30–7 a.m.) — to avoid crowds and long ticket queues.
You’ll need two separate tickets here, one for the outer scenic area and one for temple entry.
The temple complex sits within a protected forest, surrounded by towering trees, carved cliffs, and hundreds of Buddha statues. It’s not stroller-friendly — bring a baby carrier for steep steps.
Avoid visiting after rain; the stone paths become slippery. The temple’s origins link to an Indian monk 1,600 years ago, adding to its cultural significance.
Despite the visitors, it still feels peaceful and deeply moving — a place even local families try to visit once in their lives.
8. Meijiawu Village & Longjing Tea Fields – Nature and Family Calm
A 30-minute ride from the city, these tea villages are a must for families craving quiet and greenery. You can walk along the Longjing (Dragon Well) tea terraces, meet local farmers, and even try tea-picking with your kids.
Many tea houses welcome families, serving snacks and fresh brews with hill views.
9. China National Silk Museum – Culture for Curious Kids
Hangzhou’s history as a silk capital comes alive here. This free museum is spacious, air-conditioned, and full of interactive exhibits. Kids can see how silk is made, touch soft fabric displays, and explore ancient looms.
You will appreciate the calm and educational vibe — a perfect mid-day stop.
10. Shangcheng Park – Ancient China Brought to Life
If your kids love colors, costumes, and music, spend a few hours at Shangcheng Park. This cultural theme park recreates scenes from the Song Dynasty through live performances, parades, and stage shows. It’s clean, well-staffed, and surprisingly easy to navigate with kids.
11. Qiantang River Promenade – Peaceful Evenings
Wrap up your Hangzhou days with a stroll along the Qiantang River, where the skyline glows and local families gather. If you’re visiting in late summer or early autumn, you might witness the Qiantang Tidal Bore — a natural wave phenomenon kids find unforgettable.
Hangzhou is one of those rare cities where you can combine sightseeing and slow travel. Between famous landmarks, take moments to sit by the water, grab local desserts, or let kids play freely in open spaces. It’s a destination that rewards unhurried families — calm, creative, and culturally rich.
Food in Hangzhou: The desert of Chinese Cuisine
If there’s one thing families remember most about Hangzhou — besides its lakes and temples — it’s the food.
The city’s cuisine is mild, sweet, flavorful, and perfect for kids, with soft textures and gentle spices that even picky eaters enjoy.
You will also find plenty of clean, calm restaurants and lake-view cafés for a stress-free dining experience.
Easy, Kid-Approved Lunches
For a relaxed lunch near West Lake, try the Green Tea Restaurant — modern, spacious, and surprisingly quick with service.
- No long queues during early lunch hours.
- Dishes like noodles, soups, and crispy tofu are freshly made and lightly seasoned — perfect for toddlers and young travelers.
Another simple, crowd-pleasing option is Wonton restaurants, found across the city. The soft dumplings in warm broth are gentle on kids’ taste buds and easy for parents who want a quick, fuss-free meal.
A Must-Try Dinner Experience in Hangzhou
For something memorable, book a table at the 100-year-old, state-owned Hangzhou Restaurant — one of the city’s most authentic and family-friendly dining spots.
We visited on a friend’s recommendation, and it turned out to be one of our favorite meals in China. A local family even shared their tickets with us to help us skip the long line!
Here, you’ll taste ancient Hangzhou recipes served at fair local prices. Some must-try dishes include:
- Dongpo Pork – mild, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly loved by kids.
- Lotus root stew – lightly sweet, soft, and comforting.
- Fish balls and semponina-style tofu stew – an old Hangzhou specialty with a delicate, sweet flavor even little ones enjoy.
Desserts & Sweet Treats
Hangzhou has some of the most delightful traditional sweets in China — all mild, clean, and beautifully presented. Try:
- Sweet lotus cakes
- Sesame pastries
- Dragon Well (Longjing) tea ice cream – creamy and slightly herbal, perfect after a warm day exploring West Lake.
Many cafés around the lake also serve Western-style desserts and coffee, which you will love after a long sightseeing day.
Tea Houses & Cafés of Hangzhou
Parents deserve some “me time,” and Hangzhou’s tea houses and lakeside cafés make it easy. Sit back with a cup of Longjing tea, watch boats glide across West Lake, and let your kids draw, nap, or enjoy a small snack.
These moments of calm are what make Hangzhou feel truly special for families.
Practical Tips for Parents (From our experience in China)
Hangzhou might look like a postcard-perfect destination, but what makes it truly family-friendly is how easy and calm it feels — especially when you plan ahead for the small things that matter most to parents.
Stay Comfortable and Prepared
If you’re visiting in summer, bring mosquito repellent — especially for sunset walks around West Lake or the tea fields. The bugs aren’t too bad, but we learned the hard way one evening while watching the lotus bloom show.
I always carry snacks, baby wipes, and tissues, because while local stores are everywhere, familiar kid snacks (like granola bars or puffs) can be rare.
A light stroller works fine in the city, but for temples or the tea villages, a baby carrier is your best friend.
Payments & Daily Convenience
Almost every place in Hangzhou uses WeChat Pay or Alipay, but if you’re visiting from the US, you’ll want to activate Tourist Mode in advance and link your foreign card. It makes life so much easier when buying train tickets or grabbing street snacks.
Still, we always kept a bit of local cash (RMB) for small tea stalls or fruit sellers who sometimes prefer coins.
Toilets & Cleanliness
Most major attractions and restaurants have Western toilets, which was a relief after long walks. However, it’s smart to carry a small tissue roll — not every public restroom stocks paper, or also be ready for squat toilets somewhere.
Not just Hangzhou, we found that China is really taking cleanliness seriously. But like any trip with kids, having wipes within reach saves the day.
Language & Local Help
You’ll find moderate English spoken at hotels, coffee shops, and popular tourist spots, but taxi drivers and local eateries might not speak much. We used Apple Translate and Pleco a few times, and locals were always patient and smiling — one even helped us find baby formula at a pharmacy late at night!
Before You Visit China with Kids
If you’re just starting to plan your China trip, these two guides will make it so much easier:
- 20 Travel Tips to Know Before Visiting China – a short, practical list every first-time visitor should read before landing.
- The Ultimate Guide for Parents Visiting China with Kids – your complete roadmap to visas, packing, safety, and cultural know-how for stress-free travel.
Is Hangzhou Worth Visiting with Kids?
Absolutely — Hangzhou is where China slows down. It’s that rare city where parents can breathe a little deeper, kids can play freely, and every family moment feels calm yet full of meaning.
If Shanghai gives you the sparkle of modern China, Hangzhou shows you its soul — peaceful lakes, green tea hills, gentle locals, and family moments that unfold naturally. It’s a place where you can spend mornings walking beside West Lake, afternoons sipping tea in quiet gardens, and evenings watching city lights shimmer on the water — all without rushing or worrying about safety or crowds.
For American families visiting China, adding 2–3 days in Hangzhou after Shanghai is the perfect way to balance sightseeing with serenity. The city’s smooth transport, clean streets, and easygoing atmosphere make it one of the most family-friendly destinations in Asia.
And maybe that’s what makes Hangzhou so special — it lets parents slow down, connect, and see a softer, more authentic side of China that’s often missed on quick tours.
Explore More Family-Friendly Cities in China
If Hangzhou has made you curious about exploring more of China at your family’s pace, here are a few destinations you’ll love next:
Beijing with Kids: The Perfect First Stop in China
Discover how to explore China’s capital beyond the crowds — from the Great Wall to peaceful parks and kid-friendly museums.
Tianjin Day Trip from Beijing
An easy, one-hour high-speed train ride from Beijing — a colorful coastal city known for its European-style streets, Ferris wheel, and family river cruises.
Chengdu with Kids: Pandas, Parks & Peaceful Tea Gardens
Meet China’s adorable pandas and discover one of the most relaxed cities for slow family travel.
Zhangjiajie with Kids: China’s Avatar Mountains Adventure
Step into the world that inspired Avatar — with glass bridges, scenic cable cars, and gentle forest trails that adventurous families adore.
Chongqing with Kids: Hotpot, Hills & Hidden Charm
Explore China’s mountain city — where neon-lit rivers meet spicy food and surprisingly fun urban adventures for kids.
Each of these cities offers something unique — and together, they help parents see China not as one big, busy country, but as a collection of calm, diverse, and family-friendly experiences.
💬 We’d love to hear from you:
Would you include Hangzhou in your China family itinerary? Or have questions about traveling in China or anywhere else in Asia with kids?
Drop your thoughts, suggestions, or questions in the comments — we’re always happy to share tips, stories, and personal advice to help you plan the family trip of your dreams.