Hangzhou Transportation Guide: Getting In & Around

By Taxi

Taxis are one of the most convenient ways to travel within Hangzhou, with drivers often willing to offer tourist advice. Starting fare: 13 RMB (3km), then 2.5 RMB/km (nighttime surcharge 20:00-6:00: +20%). Most taxis accept Alipay/WeChat Pay; cash is also accepted. Hotels usually provide bilingual business cards (Chinese/English) with addresses—show them to drivers to avoid getting lost.

By Bus

Hangzhou has an extensive bus network covering all major scenic spots (West Lake, Lingyin Temple, Grand Canal) and commercial areas. Fare: 1-2 RMB per ride (air-conditioned buses: 2 RMB). Exact cash is recommended, but you can also use Alipay “Hangzhou Bus Code” (search “杭州公交码” in Alipay) for cashless payment—more convenient for tourists without local change.

By Bicycle / Shared Bike

Bicycles are ideal for exploring West Lake and nearby areas—you can stop freely to enjoy scenery. In addition to private bicycles, shared bikes (Mobike, Hellobike) are widely available: scan the QR code with Alipay/WeChat to unlock, with fares around 2 RMB/30 minutes. Note: Use designated parking areas to avoid fines.

By Metro

Hangzhou Metro now has 13 lines (as of 2024), connecting key areas like Xiaoshan Airport (Line 7), West Lake (Line 1/2), and Hangzhou East Railway Station (Line 1/4/6). Fare: 2-10 RMB (based on distance). Buy tickets at vending machines (accepts cash/Alipay) or use the “Hangzhou Metro Code” in Alipay—fast and efficient for avoiding traffic jams.

By Air

Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) is 27km from the city center, connecting Hangzhou to domestic major cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou) and international destinations. To get to the city:

• Airport Bus: Lines like Airport Bus 1 (to Hangzhou Railway Station, 20 RMB, 50 mins)
• Metro: Line 7 (direct to city center, 5 RMB, 45 mins)
• Taxi: ~100-120 RMB, 40-50 mins (no tolls)

By Train

Hangzhou has two main railway stations, both near the city center:

• Hangzhou Railway Station: Mainly for conventional trains and some high-speed trains (to nearby cities like Ningbo)
• Hangzhou East Railway Station: Major high-speed rail hub (to Shanghai: 1.5 hrs, to Beijing: 4.5 hrs)

By Long-Distance Bus

Hangzhou has 4 main long-distance bus stations, connecting to nearby cities (Suzhou, Wuxi) and provinces. There are two bus types:

• Speedy Buses: Faster, more comfortable, with fewer stops (recommended for long distances)
• Regular Buses: Slower, more stops, lower fares (for short distances)