3-Day Hangzhou & Wuzhen Ancient Water Town Tour
Experience the highlights of Hangzhou and Wuzhen on this 3-day private tour. Explore the peaceful scenery of West Lake, visit the historic Lingyin Temple and Six Harmonies Pagoda, and discover the charming canals, stone bridges and traditional architecture of Wuzhen Ancient Water Town.
Day 1: Hangzhou – Lingyin Temple & Six Harmonies Pagoda
Your Hangzhou sightseeing tour begins with a visit to Lingyin Temple, one of China’s most renowned Buddhist temples and an important cultural landmark in Hangzhou.
Founded in 328 AD during the Eastern Jin Dynasty by the Indian monk Huili, Lingyin Temple has a history of more than 1,600 years. Over the centuries, the temple developed into a major Buddhist center, with numerous halls, pagodas and religious buildings.
Next to the temple is Feilai Feng (Flying Peak), a remarkable Buddhist grotto and sculpture site. The limestone peak is covered with hundreds of Buddhist carvings dating from different historical periods. According to legend, the peak flew from India to Hangzhou overnight, giving it the name “Flying Peak.”
Take time to explore the temple complex and see important buildings such as the Hall of the Heavenly Kings, Grand Hall of the Great Sage, Hall of the Medicine Buddha and the Hall of the Five Hundred Arhats.
In the afternoon, continue to the Six Harmonies Pagoda (Liuhe Pagoda) on the northern bank of the Qiantang River. Originally built in 970 AD during the Northern Song Dynasty, the pagoda is one of Hangzhou’s most famous historical landmarks.
The name “Six Harmonies” refers to the Buddhist concept of harmony among the six directions: heaven, earth, east, west, north and south. The elegant combination of brick and wood makes the pagoda an excellent example of traditional Chinese architecture.
After sightseeing, return to your hotel in Hangzhou.
Day 2: Hangzhou – Wuzhen Ancient Water Town
Today, travel from Hangzhou to Wuzhen Ancient Water Town, one of the most charming historic water towns in the Yangtze River Delta.
Wuzhen is famous for its centuries-old houses, stone bridges, narrow lanes and picturesque waterways. The town has preserved much of its traditional architecture and local way of life, creating a wonderful atmosphere for exploring on foot.
Take a leisurely walk through the old town and discover traditional residences, workshops, shops and historic streets along the canals.
A highlight of your visit is a traditional wooden boat ride through Wuzhen’s waterways. Sit back and enjoy views of the old houses, stone bridges and riverside scenery from the water. The boat ride takes approximately 20 minutes and provides a relaxing way to experience the charm of this ancient water town.
After exploring Wuzhen, return to Hangzhou or stay overnight in Wuzhen according to your travel arrangement.
Day 3: Hangzhou City Essence Tour & Departure
Today, discover the essence of Hangzhou, centered around its world-famous West Lake.
West Lake is the symbol of Hangzhou and is famous for its tranquil waters, landscaped gardens, historic temples, bridges and surrounding hills. Its scenery is so iconic that it appears on the back of China’s 1-yuan banknote.
Take a relaxing boat ride to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, one of the most celebrated views of West Lake. Three small stone pagodas stand in the lake, creating a beautiful scene when the moonlight and lanterns are reflected on the water.
Depending on your interests and available time, enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeshore and take in the peaceful scenery of West Lake.
After the sightseeing, your guide and driver will transfer you to Hangzhou Airport or railway station for your onward journey.
Your 3-day Hangzhou and Wuzhen tour comes to an end with wonderful memories of West Lake, ancient Buddhist culture and China’s traditional water-town heritage.