Hangzhou’s transportation network is designed to be tourist-friendly, blending modern efficiency with traditional charm. The metro system is your fastest bet for crossing the city, with six lines connecting key areas like West Lake, Riverside, and the business district. Trains run from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and signs are bilingual (Chinese and English). For short trips, bicycles reign supreme—the city has over 80,000 shared bikes, and waterfront paths make pedaling along the canals a joy. If you’re heading to scenic areas like Longjing Tea Plantations, taxis or ride-hailing apps (like Didi) offer flexibility, though rush hours can slow things down.
How does Hangzhou’s public transport work for tourists?
The APTC card (Alipay Public Transport Card) is your ticket to hassle-free travel. Linked to Alipay, it works on metro, buses, and even ferries. Buses cover 98% of the city’s attractions, and routes like Y2 (a sightseeing line) stop at West Lake landmarks. For a spritz of nostalgia, try the vintage tram along Wulin Square—it’s more crowded but perfect for soaking in local vibes. Keep in mind: buses stop frequently, so press the bell button early to avoid missing your stop!
Which transportation option suits West Lake visits best?
West Lake’s beauty deserves a leisurely approach. Walking or cycling lets you pause at will—rent a bike from Hello Bike or Mobike (¥10/hour) and follow trails that loop the lake. For a bird’s-eye view, take the West Lake Cruise (¥55/day), which docks near Leifeng Pagoda and Su Causeway. Avoid driving here: weekends see heavy traffic, and parking costs ¥20–¥50/hour. Pro tip: Start early at Broken Bridge and walk to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon—it’s flat and shaded.
What’s the deal with Hangzhou’s river ferries?
The Qiantang River Ferry isn’t just transport—it’s an experience. For ¥3/ride, you’ll glide past skyscrapers and historic bridges. Ferries run from Wu Shan and Griffin Pier every 20 minutes (6:30 AM–8:30 PM). Combine this with a metro ride to Xiasha for a peek at the industrial-meets-modern riverfront. Just watch the schedule: ferries pause during typhoons or high tides.
How can I avoid traffic chaos in Hangzhou?
Hangzhou ranks 4th globally in traffic congestion, so plan smart. Metro Line 1 links the airport (¥10/25 min) to downtown, skipping gridlock. On weekdays, avoid the Wenhui Road and Zhongshan Road corridors. For day trips, book intercity trains to nearby cities like Shanghai (1.5 hours) or Ningbo (1 hour). If driving, use TomTom or Amaps for real-time updates—locals rely on them.
Transport Snapshot: Key Numbers
| Option | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Metro | ¥2–10 | Fast cross-city travel |
| Shared Bike | ¥10/hr | Short trips, scenic routes |
| Taxi | ¥11/km + ¥10 fee | Late-night convenience |
| West Lake Cruise | ¥55/day | Scenic loops |
Local’s Tip: Go Multimodal
Pair the metro + bike: Ride Line 1 to Longxiangqiao, then cycle 15 minutes to Wushan for a ferry ride. This mix saves time and lets you see Hangzhou from skyline to waterfront. Download the Metro app (Zhejiang Lifung) for live maps and English translations.
Street-smart travelers blend transport modes like a local. Need help crafting a custom route? Deep China Travel’s guides can sync transit with your itinerary—just ask!