Is There A Tourist Bus In Hangzhou? What Are The Routes And Fares?

Yes, Hangzhou does have tourist sightseeing buses! These convenient hop-on-hop-off services are perfect for first-time visitors wanting to explore the city’s iconic landmarks without the hassle of navigating public transport. Let’s dive into the details of routes, ticket prices, and how to make the most of this budget-friendly way to discover Hangzhou’s charm.

What Routes Do the Hangzhou Tourist Buses Cover?

Hangzhou’s sightseeing buses focus on the West Lake area, the city’s cultural heart. The Lùshì Xuéshēng Line (named after a historic academy) loops around the lake, stopping at spots like Broken Bridge, Leifeng Pagoda, and Su Causeway. A second route, the Wetland Ecology Line, connects urban attractions to the Xixi Wetlands, showcasing Hangzhou’s natural beauty. Both routes include audio guides in multiple languages, making them ideal for independent travelers.

Key Stops & Highlights:

• West Lake Loop: Longjing Tea Plantations, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, and lakeside viewpoints.
• Cultural Route: China National Tea Museum, Lingyin Temple, and riverside strolls.

How Much Do Tickets Cost?

Ticket prices are wallet-friendly. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Kids under 1.2 meters ride free, and students get a 50% discount. Tickets can be bought online (scan QR codes at stops) or from drivers.

Are There Alternative Ways to See Hangzhou?

While buses are great, combining them with other transport options maximizes flexibility. For example:

• Bikes: Rent a bike near the lake for short trips—Hangzhou is famously bike-friendly.
• Boats: Ferries cruise the lake, offering a different perspective of temples and pagodas.
• Metro/Taxis: Use these for longer journeys to attractions like the Grand Canal or Wuzhen Water Town.

Pro tip: Bus passes save money if you plan to visit multiple sights in one day.

When Is the Best Time to Take the Sightseeing Bus?

Hangzhou’s weather affects your experience:

• Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms bloom, but buses get crowded. Go early or late in the day.
• Summer (June–Aug): Hot and humid—opt for morning rides to avoid afternoon rush.
• Fall (Sept–Nov): Perfect weather and fewer crowds. Autumn foliage at the wetlands is stunning.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Less busy, but some routes may adjust schedules. Layer up!

Any Extra Tips for First-Time Riders?

Here’s how to level up your bus tour:

1. Start at Longjing Road Station: Near the lake’s eastern shore, it’s central and easy to reach from the metro.
2. Pair with a Guidebook: Use the bus to hop between major sites, then explore on foot. The Hangzhou Travel Guide app has offline maps.
3. Time Your Visits: Popular stops like Leifeng Pagoda get busy. Arrive before 10 AM or after 4 PM for shorter lines.
4. Combine with a River Cruise: Some buses connect to the Grand Canal boat tours—ask drivers for directions.

In short, Hangzhou’s sightseeing buses are a stress-free way to tick off must-see attractions. Whether you’re short on time or want to soak in the city’s vibes, this is your ticket to “deep” exploration—pun intended!