Hangzhou Transportation Guide: Metro, Taxi, Airport Transfer & Getting Around
Getting around Hangzhou is relatively easy thanks to its modern metro system, convenient ride-hailing services, and well-connected public transportation network.
This Hangzhou Transportation Guide explains the best ways to travel around the city, including metro, buses, taxis, Didi, airport transfers, and transportation to major attractions.
Quick Answer: How Do You Get Around Hangzhou?
For most travelers, the best way to explore Hangzhou is a combination of metro, walking, and ride-hailing services.
Metro: Best for major attractions and city travel
Didi: Best for convenience and direct routes
Taxi: Useful for short trips and luggage
Walking: Ideal around West Lake
Private Transfer: Best for families and customized trips
Quick Navigation
1. Hangzhou Metro Guide
Hangzhou Metro is the most convenient public transportation option for most visitors. It connects the city center, railway stations, and many popular attractions.
Why Use the Metro in Hangzhou?
Affordable prices
Fast and reliable service
Avoid traffic congestion
Easy connections with major areas
Metro Cost
Most metro rides cost around ¥2–8 depending on distance.
Popular Metro Stations for Travelers
Longxiangqiao Station – convenient for West Lake
Wulin Square Station – downtown shopping and hotels
East Railway Station – high-speed train connections
Lingyin Temple area – accessible with metro plus short transfer
2. Taxi and Didi in Hangzhou
Taxis and ride-hailing services are convenient when attractions are spread out or when traveling with luggage.
Didi (Ride-Hailing)
Didi is one of the most popular ways for visitors to travel around Hangzhou.
It is especially useful for:
Airport transfers
Traveling with luggage
Early morning departures
Attractions with limited metro access
Taxi
Traditional taxis are available throughout Hangzhou and are suitable for short-distance trips.
Estimated Costs
Short city rides: around ¥15–40
Longer trips across districts: around ¥40–100+
3. Hangzhou Airport Transfer Guide
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) is the main airport serving the city.
Option 1: Metro
The metro is the most affordable airport transfer option.
Low cost
Suitable for travelers without heavy luggage
Good for budget travelers
Option 2: Didi or Taxi
Ride-hailing or taxis are more convenient, especially for:
Families
Groups
Late arrivals
Travelers with large luggage
Option 3: Private Transfer
Private transfers are recommended for travelers who want a smoother arrival experience, especially for customized tours or multi-city trips.
4. Railway Station Transportation
Hangzhou has several important railway stations connecting the city with Shanghai, Suzhou, Beijing, and other destinations.
Hangzhou East Railway Station
The main high-speed railway station and the most common arrival point for visitors.
Shanghai to Hangzhou high-speed trains
Easy metro connections
Convenient for city travel
Hangzhou Railway Station
Located closer to central areas and West Lake.
5. How to Reach Major Hangzhou Attractions
West Lake
Best options:
Metro + walking
Taxi/Didi directly to scenic areas
Lingyin Temple
Best options:
Didi for direct access
Metro plus bus connection
Longjing Tea Village
Best options:
Didi for convenience
Taxi for flexible sightseeing
Xixi Wetland
Best options:
Metro
Didi
6. Transportation Options by Traveler Type
First-Time Visitors
Recommended combination:
Metro + Didi
Use metro for major routes and Didi when attractions are less convenient.
Families
Recommended:
Didi + private transfer
This reduces walking and makes luggage handling easier.
Budget Travelers
Recommended:
Metro + walking
Couples
Recommended:
Walking around West Lake + occasional Didi rides
7. Practical Transportation Tips
Download transportation apps before arrival
Keep your hotel address in Chinese
Allow extra time around West Lake
Avoid rush hours when possible
Use metro for predictable travel times
Use Didi when convenience matters more than cost
Frequently Asked Questions About Hangzhou Transportation
Is Hangzhou easy to travel around?
Yes. Hangzhou has convenient public transportation and is easy to explore for international visitors.
What is the best way to get around Hangzhou?
For most travelers, metro combined with Didi is the most practical choice.
Can I use the metro to visit West Lake?
Yes. Several metro stations provide convenient access to different parts of West Lake.
How do I get from Hangzhou Airport to downtown?
Travelers can choose metro, taxi, Didi, or private transfer depending on budget and convenience.
Plan Your Hangzhou Trip
Explore Hangzhou With Local Experts
We provide customized Hangzhou tours, private transfers, and multi-city travel solutions for international travelers visiting China.
Contact us to plan your Hangzhou journey.
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