Best Places to Visit in Zhejiang | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Zhejiang Travel Guide
Quick overview of Zhejiang with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Zhejiang, China, a captivating province located on the eastern coast of the country. Known for its picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities, Zhejiang offers a truly immersive travel experience. From the stunning West Lake in Hangzhou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the ancient water towns of Wuzhen and Xitang, this province is a treasure trove of natural beauty and historical wonders. Explore the renowned tea plantations in Longjing Village, where you can witness the traditional tea-making process and savor the exquisite flavors of Longjing tea. With its blend of modernity and tradition, Zhejiang promises to enchant every traveler with its unique charm and unforgettable experiences.
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Best Places To Visit in Zhejiang
1. Hangzhou: Hangzhou is a beautiful city located in the Zhejiang province of China. It is known for its picturesque West Lake, which is surrounded by lush greenery and historic temples. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy the local cuisine, which includes dishes like Dongpo pork and Longjing tea.
2. Ningbo: Ningbo is a coastal city in Zhejiang province that is known for its rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the ancient Tianyi Pavilion, which is one of the oldest private libraries in China, or visit the Ningbo Museum to learn about the city's past. The city is also famous for its seafood, and visitors can sample fresh fish and shellfish at the local markets.
3. Wuzhen: Wuzhen is a charming water town located in the northern part of Zhejiang province. It is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, including traditional houses, bridges, and canals. Visitors can take a boat ride through the town's waterways, visit the local museums, and sample the local delicacies, such as rice wine and fried rice cakes.
4. Shaoxing: Shaoxing is a historic city located in the eastern part of Zhejiang province. It is known for its traditional architecture, including the famous Lu Xun's Former Residence, which is a museum dedicated to the famous Chinese writer. Visitors can also explore the city's ancient temples, such as the East Lake Temple, and sample the local delicacies, such as Shaoxing wine and stinky tofu.
5. Yiwu: Yiwu is a bustling city located in the central part of Zhejiang province. It is known for its large wholesale market, which is one of the largest in the world. Visitors can shop for a wide variety of goods, including clothing, jewelry, and electronics, at the market. The city is also home to the Yiwu International Trade City, which is a hub for international trade.
6. Jiaxing: Jiaxing is a city located in the northern part of Zhejiang province. It is known for its beautiful scenery, including the Xitang Water Town, which is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can also explore the city's historic sites, such as the South Lake and the Nanhu Lake, and sample the local delicacies, such as Jiaxing rice cakes and braised pork.
7. Huzhou: Huzhou is a city located in the central part of Zhejiang province. It is known for its natural beauty, including the famous Taihu Lake, which is one of the largest freshwater lakes in China. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, hike through the surrounding mountains, and sample the local delicacies, such as Huzhou bamboo shoots and fish.
8. Zhoushan: Zhoushan is a city located on an archipelago in the eastern part of Zhejiang province. It is known for its beautiful beaches, including the famous Putuo Mountain, which is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Visitors can also explore the city's historic sites, such as the Shenjiamen Fishing Village, and sample the local seafood, such as Zhoushan oysters and yellow croakers.
9. Quzhou: Quzhou is a city located in the western part of Zhejiang province. It is known for its rich history and culture, including the famous Kaihua Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can also explore the city's ancient architecture, such as the Longyou Caves, and sample the local delicacies, such as Quzhou bamboo shoots and tea.
10. Lishui: Lishui is a city located in the southern part of Zhejiang province. It is known for its natural beauty, including the famous Yunhe Rice Terraces, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can also explore the city's ancient architecture, such as the Songyang Academy, and sample the local delicacies, such as Lishui bamboo shoots and tea.
Hotels Map Of Zhejiang
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Tours And Activities In Zhejiang
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Food & Drinks To Try In Zhejiang
1. Dongpo Pork: Zhejiang is famous for its Dongpo Pork, a traditional dish made from braised pork belly. The meat is cooked slowly in a rich sauce, resulting in tender and flavorful pork that melts in your mouth.
2. West Lake Fish in Vinegar: Another popular dish in Zhejiang is West Lake Fish in Vinegar. This dish features fresh fish fillets cooked in a sweet and sour vinegar sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
3. Longjing Tea: Zhejiang is renowned for its Longjing Tea, also known as Dragon Well Tea. This high-quality green tea is grown in the hills surrounding West Lake and has a distinct flavor and aroma. It is often enjoyed during traditional tea ceremonies.
4. Hangzhou-style Steamed Dumplings: Hangzhou, the capital city of Zhejiang, is famous for its steamed dumplings. These dumplings are filled with a variety of ingredients such as pork, shrimp, and vegetables, and are steamed to perfection. They are a must-try for dumpling lovers.
5. Beggar's Chicken: Beggar's Chicken is a unique dish that originated in Zhejiang. It involves marinating a whole chicken in a mixture of spices, wrapping it in lotus leaves, and then baking it in clay. The result is a tender and flavorful chicken with a crispy skin.
6. Zhejiang-style Noodles: Zhejiang is known for its delicious noodles, which come in various shapes and sizes. Whether it's the thin and chewy Wenzhou noodles or the thick and hearty Hangzhou noodles, you can find a wide range of noodle dishes to satisfy your cravings.
7. Zhejiang-style Braised Bamboo Shoots: Bamboo shoots are a popular ingredient in Zhejiang cuisine, and they are often braised to bring out their natural sweetness. The tender bamboo shoots are cooked in a flavorful sauce, resulting in a delicious and aromatic dish.
8. Zhejiang-style Fried Shrimp: Zhejiang is located near the coast, so it's no surprise that seafood plays a significant role in the local cuisine. Zhejiang-style fried shrimp is a popular dish that features fresh shrimp coated in a light batter and deep-fried until crispy. It is often served with a tangy dipping sauce.
9. Zhejiang-style Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs: Zhejiang-style sweet and sour spare ribs are a mouthwatering dish that combines tender pork ribs with a sweet and tangy sauce. The ribs are marinated, then deep-fried until crispy before being coated in the flavorful sauce.
10. Zhejiang-style Rice Wine: Zhejiang is known for its production of rice wine, a traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. Zhejiang-style rice wine is often enjoyed during festive occasions and has a mild and slightly sweet taste.
In conclusion, Zhejiang offers a wide range of delicious food and drinks to try. From the famous Dongpo Pork to the refreshing Longjing Tea, there is something to satisfy every palate. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in the unique flavors and culinary traditions of this vibrant Chinese province.
Best Time To Visit Zhejiang
The best time to visit Zhejiang, China is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The scenic beauty of Zhejiang is at its peak during these seasons, with blooming flowers and lush greenery. Additionally, there are fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season, allowing visitors to explore the attractions without large crowds. However, it is important to note that Zhejiang experiences a monsoon climate, so it is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning a trip to avoid heavy rainfall.
Flight Calendar For Zhejiang
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Transportation To Zhejiang
There are several transportation options to Zhejiang, China.
1. By Air: The most convenient way to reach Zhejiang is by flying into Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport or Ningbo Lishe International Airport. Both airports have domestic and international flights connecting Zhejiang to major cities in China and other countries.
2. By Train: Zhejiang has a well-developed railway network, and there are high-speed trains connecting major cities in China to Zhejiang. Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Wenzhou are the main railway hubs in the province.
3. By Bus: Zhejiang has an extensive bus network connecting it to neighboring provinces and cities. There are long-distance buses available from major cities in China to Zhejiang.
4. By Car: Zhejiang has a well-maintained road network, and it is possible to drive to the province from neighboring provinces or cities. However, traffic conditions and driving regulations should be considered before choosing this option.
5. By Boat: Zhejiang has several ports along its coastline, including Ningbo Port and Zhoushan Port, which are major international shipping hubs. It is possible to reach Zhejiang by ferry or cruise ship from other coastal cities or countries.
Once in Zhejiang, there are various local transportation options available, including buses, taxis, and subway systems in major cities like Hangzhou and Ningbo.