Highlights
Situated on China’s east coast – just 45 minutes from Shanghai by bullet train – Hangzhou (pronounced “hung-jo”) is considered one of China’s most famous and most beautiful destinations.
The city’s focal point is the enchanted environs of West Lake – resembling a traditional Chinese garden, but on a very grand scale. Covering 600 hectares (1,500 acres), the lake is fringed on three sides by mountain peaks and on one side by the city skyline. The richly green shoreline is dotted with ancient temples, towering pagodas and delicate bridges, creating a perfect picture of China’s historic character.
Known as one of China’s most prosperous business centres, Hangzhou is a city of 6.5 million people. Its prominence is legendary: in the 13th century, Hangzhou was the most populous city on earth, with more than one million inhabitants. Marco Polo called it “the finest and the noblest city in the world.”
With Hangzhou’s best location – convenient to shopping and business, yet right at the edge of West Lake – Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake is the city’s most desirable destination.
Quick Reference
Time zone
GMT +8 hours
Language(s) spoken
Nearly everyone in Hangzhou speaks Mandarin, the national language of China. Most staff in shops and restaurants speak some English.
Electrical system
Local voltage is 220 volts. Adapters available; please request through the Concierge.
Shopping hours
10:00 am to 8:00 pm
Working hours
Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Room Rate
Best available room rate. Our most flexible option.
More About Hangzhou
Seasonal highlights IN HANGZHOU
April–May
- Dragon Well Tea Festival
July–August
- West Lake Lotus Festival
September–October
- Hangzhou Golden Autumn International Tourism Festival
- West Lake Osmanthus Festival
- China International Qiantang River Tidal Bore Festival
- West Lake International Fireworks Show
- The West Lake Expo (to develop the convention and exhibition industry)
November
- Hangzhou Marathon
