Hangzhou Public Transit and Scenic Routes
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- Source：The Silk Road Echo
If you're planning a trip to Hangzhou and want to explore like a local—not just a tourist—then let me break it down for you. As someone who’s tested nearly every transit option and scenic route in this city, I can tell you: getting around Hangzhou isn’t just convenient, it’s part of the experience. Whether you're chasing West Lake views or heading to Lingyin Temple, public transit here makes it smooth.
Why Hangzhou’s Transit Wins
Hangzhou has invested heavily in its urban mobility. With over 5 million daily riders on buses and metro lines combined (2023 data), the system is both efficient and eco-friendly. The real gem? Integration. Your Hangzhou public transit card works across metro, bus, bike-sharing, and even some ferries.
Metro + Bus = Ultimate Combo
The Hangzhou Metro now spans 6 lines and covers key tourist zones. But don’t sleep on the buses—they reach places the metro can’t, especially around West Lake’s winding paths.
| Transport Mode | Avg. Fare (CNY) | Coverage Area | Tourist-Friendly? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro | 4–8 | Citywide (urban core) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Bus | 2–3 | Full city + scenic outskirts | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ride-hailing | 15–40 | Flexible but traffic-prone | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ |
| Bike-sharing | 1.5/hour | Dense in tourist zones | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
As you can see, buses offer the best balance of cost, coverage, and convenience. Pro tip: Take Bus 7 or 27 around West Lake for panoramic lakeside views without the crowds.
Top Scenic Routes You Can’t Miss
- Route 1: West Lake Loop (Bus 507 or 7) – Covers Broken Bridge, Su Causeway, and Leifeng Pagoda. Runs every 10 mins.
- Route 2: Lingyin Temple Access (Bus 103 or Metro Line 3 → Bus 407) – Spiritual vibes and ancient architecture. Use your scenic routes pass for discounts on entry fees.
- Route 3: Xixi Wetland Park (Bus 193 or 356) – Nature lovers, this one’s for you. Less crowded, more serene.
Pro Tips from a Local Explorer
Download Alipay or WeChat Pay and link it to the Hangzhou Tong card function. No need to buy physical tickets. Also, avoid rush hours (7:30–9:00 AM & 5:30–7:00 PM) if you’re using metro—Line 1 gets packed.
And here’s a secret: many bus stops near West Lake have English signage and QR codes that pull up real-time arrival info. Just scan and go.
In short, Hangzhou blends modern transit with timeless beauty. Skip the taxis, embrace the bus, and ride like you belong. Trust me—it’s the smartest way to fall in love with this city.