Joanna James
A city renowned for the world's longest canal, the gigantic Grand Canal, Hangzhou in China's Zhejiang province has got a host of exciting outdoor activities in store for you. Get out and about; discover Zhejiang's bustling metropolis, which is vibrant Hangzhou, to unleash the avid adventurer in you.
A 60-kilometre drive away from the capital city, Hangzhou is an incredible hiking opportunity and a tranquil getaway that breaks you away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis — the secluded Mount Mogan. The 719-metre-tall mountain, nestled within the sanctuary of the Moganshan National Park in Deqing County, gets its name from a gifted blacksmith couple who's believed to have inhabited the mountain in the 5th century BC. The serenity and the scenic beauty of the mountains are sure to enthral the courageous who decide to take on the adventurous trek.
Besides the gigantic Grand Canal, another thing that Hangzhou is renowned for is its locally grown Longjing tea. Three kilometres southwest of the famous West Lake is the home of Longjing tea — the serene village of Longjing. Longjing, which translates to "Dragon Well", is named after the village's well, although the reason for earning this rather intriguing moniker in the first place is not apparent. The laid-back village is blessed with emerald-green tea fields and sprawling lush greenery, inviting you to explore its mind-blowing serenity.
Covering a whopping 1,150 hectares, Xixi National Wetland Park in Western Hangzhou lets you get back to nature like never before. The sprawling nature reserve is home to a slew of ponds, lakes and swamps and is also renowned as an epic bird-watching spot. The best way to take in the nature-rich park is on a paid tour, which takes you around the wetlands that make up the national park on a bamboo boat.
For those craving a quick escape from the vibrant city life while not far afield, Hangzhou Botanical Garden is an oasis of serenity to relax and unwind. A massive artificial lake, perfectly manicured lawns and foliage and a wide variety of incredible local plant life are among the most prominent that define the botanical garden. Take a stroll through the charming nature haven, letting both your feet and mind take a wander to lose yourself in the mind-blowing beauty and nature.
An hour's drive northeast of Hangzhou will take you to one of China's most famous water villages, Wuzhèn Water Village. Hop on a boat and cruise the labyrinth of canals while losing yourself in some old-world Venice vibes. After a day of touring the tranquil water village, give coliving in Hangzhou, including the likes of lyf Mid-Town Hangzhou, a try to retire for the day.
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