Hangzhou, the capital of China's Zhejiang Province, was once called the most beautiful city in the world by explorer Marco Polo. There's also a Chinese saying that goes - ‘up above is paradise, and down below is Hangzhou'. You'll find several pieces of evidence backing these statements when you're visiting this magnificent city.
Even the best laid travel plans can result in unforeseen circumstances. You can't risk your life in the hope that something won't go wrong. So, before you travel to Hangzhou, be sure to purchase China travel medical insurance to protect yourself and your finances.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers in Hangzhou – FAQs
No matter how well you plan or what safeguards you take, there's always the possibility you may fall ill or get injured whilst traveling in Hangzhou. Buying travel medical insurance is a sensible option to protect yourself from unwanted expenses.
Why should I buy travel medical insurance for my trip to Hangzhou?
Private healthcare in Hangzhou is expensive. You'll face serious financial obligations if you fall sick or get injured. Travel medical insurance is your financial safety net in such situations.
What should I look for in my Hangzhou travel insurance?
With travel medical insurance, you can take advantage of first-class medical facilities in Hangzhou. Your insurance can cover the cost of medical treatment, and may provide coverage for emergency evacuation and repatriation to your home country if necessary. Examine the travel medical insurance plans available to you carefully, and choose the plan that fits your needs best.
Top Tourist Destinations in Hangzhou
West Lake (Xi Hu)
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most beautiful attraction in all of Hangzhou. The scenic lake is sheltered on three sides by picturesque hills. Whether it's cloudy, rainy, snowy or sunny, West Lake never fails to put on a show of its beauty. The landscape of the lake is so charming that it's printed on the one-yuan currency note.
Lingyin Temple
Lingyin Temple, one of the oldest and largest Buddhist temples in China, is just a 15-minute drive from West Lake. Lying at the foot of Lingyin Mountain, this scenic temple dates back to 326 AD. It features a statue of Shakyamuni carved out of 24 pieces of camphor wood.
XiXi Wetland Park
Located in the west of Hangzhou, XiXi Wetland Park is designated as one of China's 5A-level tourist attractions. One of its most famous attractions is the birdwatching huts, where you can spot exotic birds from the lookout holes. Take a boat ride and catch fish from the waterways, then have them cooked for a special lunch in the restaurants by the riverside.
The Dragon Well Plantations (Longjing)
Hangzhou is famous worldwide for its local Longjing tea. Visit Longjing, a small village just two miles southwest of West Lake, and take a tour of the tea factories. You can stroll through the tea plantations, pick tea-leaves, and learn the art of tea-making. Before leaving Longjing, don't forget to visit the National Tea Museum.
Fei Lai Feng
This marvelous limestone mountain lies next to the grand Lingyin Temple. Fei Lai Feng translates literally into ‘a peak that flew from afar'. It's called such due to a folktale boasting that the mountain flew from another place and landed in its current location. Fei Lai Fang features more than 300 intricately handcrafted stone Buddha statues.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Hangzhou
When to Visit Hangzhou
The best time to visit Hangzhou is between April to October. The flowers and trees of this beautiful garden city are in full bloom around these times.
January is the coldest month, while July and August are the hottest. The city can experience tropical cyclones, but direct strikes are seldom and warning is usually ample.
Getting Around the City
Hangzhou has an extensive bus network. However, schedules and routes are displayed and announced in Chinese. Download Google Maps for easy navigation through the city.
Cycling is a cheap and convenient way to get around Hangzhou. While some travelers might find the traffic chaotic, the city is comparatively bike-friendly.
You will also find water buses on the canals and rivers throughout Hangzhou. The routes of these water buses connect the Grand Canal, West Lake, XiXi River and the Qiantang River.
Safety Concerns
Hangzhou is a safe city for travelers, but common precautions are a must for a safe experience. Here are a few things to look out for:
- Flooding and typhoons are common in Hangzhou during the rainy season. Make sure you plan your trip according to local forecasts and warnings.
- Be mindful of your luggage, especially during rush hours. Petty thieves can target tourists.
- Some shopkeepers and restaurants may hand you fake currency while giving you change. Make sure you inspect the notes properly before pocketing them.
Health Concerns
Mosquitoes are a nuisance near the waters of West Lake and XiXi Wetland Park. Make sure you apply suitable mosquito repellent. Insect bites can be an unwelcome distraction during your outing.
Before You Go to Hangzhou - Do This
- Pack extra dosages if you're taking any special medications.
- Pack sunscreen, bug spray, and mosquito repellent.