The most pleasant times to wander around Hangzhou are during the spring months of March to May and the autumn months of September to November. Spring brings the famous peach blossoms and the first harvest of Longjing tea, while autumn offers crisp air and the sweet scent of osmanthus flowers. The city looks particularly poetic during these transitional seasons. 

It is vital to avoid the "Golden Week" public holidays, specifically the first week of October and the Lunar New Year period in January or February. During these times, West Lake becomes incredibly crowded, and transport prices skyrocket. July and August can be oppressively hot and humid, often reaching over 35°C, which makes outdoor sightseeing quite draining.

While many visitors treat Hangzhou as a quick day trip from Shanghai, staying longer allows for a much deeper connection with its "slow life" philosophy. A minimum of two days is needed just to see the main UNESCO sites and the lake. However, three to five days is the ideal amount of time to truly explore. 

A longer stay gives you the freedom to move beyond the tourist hubs. You can spend a full day hiking through the tea terraces of Meijiawu or exploring the quieter canals of the Xiaohe Historical District. With more flexibility you can support local tea houses and smaller artisans in the lesser-known neighbourhoods that most rushed tourists miss.

Hangzhou is generally a very safe city for international travellers, with low rates of violent crime. However, it is always important to check your government's local travel advisory, such as Smartraveller or the FCDO, for the latest updates before you depart. As with any major tourist destination, keep an eye out for common "tea house scams" where friendly locals may invite you for a drink only to leave you with an astronomical bill. 

Practising common sense is the best way to stay out of trouble. This includes avoiding drinking to excess and ensuring you always follow local laws and regulations. To protect yourself against unforeseen medical issues or travel disruptions, always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place before you arrive.

Hangzhou is a blend of modern cosmopolitan life and traditional values. When walking around the city or visiting the lake, casual but modest clothing is appropriate. When entering religious sites like Lingyin Temple, everyone should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. It is a sign of respect to avoid wearing overly revealing clothing such as crop tops or very short shorts in these sacred spaces. 

If you are lucky enough to be invited into a local home, it is customary to remove your shoes at the entrance. Bringing a small gift, like high-quality fruit or sweets, is a lovely gesture of appreciation. Generally, maintaining a calm and polite demeanour will go a long way, as "saving face" and public harmony are important aspects of local social interactions.

Comfortable walking shoes are the most important item in your suitcase, as you will likely cover many kilometres around West Lake and the various mountain trails. If you are visiting in the winter, pack plenty of warm layers and a heavy coat, as the damp cold can feel quite piercing. For the rainy season in June and July, high-quality wet weather gear or a sturdy umbrella is essential. 

Since modest dress is preferred at many cultural sites, avoid packing only singlets or very short clothing. Instead, opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics that cover the shoulders and chest. If your accommodation has a pool, standard swimwear is perfectly fine, but keep it conservative when moving through public areas of the hotel. A reusable bag is also handy for local markets to help reduce plastic waste.

The local cuisine, known as Zhejiand food, is famous for its fresh, light, and slightly sweet flavours. You must try West Lake Vinegar Fish and Longjing Shrimp, which is stir-fried with the city's famous green tea leaves. These dishes are deeply tied to the local geography and history, reflecting the bounty of the lake and the surrounding plantations. 

For a more casual experience, head to Shengli River Food Street or the areas around Hefang Street. Here, you can find local snacks and street food that have been part of the community for generations. Trying these dishes is a great way to support local food traditions and understand why Hangzhou has been considered a gastronomic hub in China for centuries.