Hangzhou by bike: how to go cycling in paradise on earth

Hangzhou in China’s Zhejiang province is synonymous with idyllic landscapes and historical architecture. Skirting the northern and eastern sides of West Lake (Xi Hu) – a Unesco World Heritage Site celebrated by poets and artists throughout history – the city is an ideal setting for a two-wheel adventure. 

Cycling offers a gentle workout while allowing you to see more of your destination. The city’s subtropical climate means the best time to take a cycling holiday is during spring or autumn, when temperatures can run between 15°C and 28°C. However, if you’re willing to brave Hangzhou winters averaging about 7°C, you’ll be rewarded with vistas of stunning frozen lakes and snow-capped hills.

Before setting out on the picturesque pathways of this bicycle-friendly city, be sure to download the Asia Miles by Cathay app to track your activity and earn Asia Miles as you reach new targets. In addition, when you purchase Chubb Rewards Annual Travel Cover with Cathay, you can earn up to 3,000 extra miles while enjoying extra peace of mind.

Get your bike ready – we’ve rounded up the top routes for a rejuvenating cycling holiday in Hangzhou. 

1. West Lake: northwest route

The northwestern route around West Lake takes in the majority of its most popular beauty spots, including picture-postcard mountains, creeks, gardens, pagodas, temples and bridges. Start at the Broken Bridge, the setting of the Chinese love story Legend of the White Snake, following which you’ll pass Gushan mountain and Hangzhou Flower Nursery, before crossing Yanggong Causeway. You’ll end at Taiziwan Park, where thousands of tulips bloom every spring. Spanning six to seven kilometres across relatively flat terrain, this trail is great for family excursions.

2. West Lake: southeast route

Although West Lake is accessible all-year round, the southeast route was made to be enjoyed in the spring, when flowers blossom and orioles sing from swaying willow trees. It starts from the southern end of the Su Causeway, following the lakeside path northbound and passing landmarks like the Leifeng Pagoda. Some worthwhile stops along the way include renowned Chinese Medicine Museum Hu Qing Yu Tang on Hefang Street; the China National Silk Museum where you can take in 5,000 years of history; the former residence of Qing Dynasty tycoon Hu Xueyuan; and Hubin Road, with many places to refuel with delicious eats. While this four-kilometre path is a smooth ride, cyclists share the road with cars, so exercise caution at all times. 

3. West Lake: Lingyin Temple

Slightly more physically demanding than the West Lake routes, this 20-minute trail to Lingyin Temple starts on the northwest corner of the lake and takes you towards the countryside. As you leave behind the bustle of the lakeside attractions, you’ll encounter different scenery, including Longjing tea plantations. A final uphill climb means this trail is best attempted in the spring, summer or autumn – before reaching the majestic spiritual landmark as your reward.

Prefer an easier challenge? Take bus number 1314 – which in Mandarin Chinese sounds phonetically similar to “forever” – and wind through West Lake’s storied landmarks like Broken Bridge, Long Bridge Park and Jingci Temple until you reach Shangtianzhu station. From here, you can take the downhill cycling path to Lingyin Temple. 

4. Longjing Village

Known for its narrow turns and steep slopes, this route is reserved for more experienced cyclists. Those who do attempt it, though, will be rewarded with a behind-the-scenes look at the making of world-renowned Longjing tea. Start on Longjing Road and head southwest to the Xihu Longjing Tea Scenic Spot, where you can stop for a relaxing cuppa. Once you reach Longjing Village, you can either return home the way you’ve come, or turn onto Manjuelong Road to view admire quaint architecture. You’ll also encounter natural springs in Shuiyuedong, and, in autumn, rolling hills of osmanthus, which have been enchanting onlookers since the Tang Dynasty.

5. Qiantang River urban trail

Encompassing landmarks old and new, the route along the Qiantang River takes you on a journey through time. We recommend starting at Liuheta Culture Park and ending at Hangzhou Grand Theatre. Along the way, you’ll get to view impressive feats of architecture and engineering, like Hangzhou’s highway-railway bridge. Stop to admire the White Pagoda at Bai Ta park, or spend some time at the Qianjiang Xincheng CBD Park. When you reach the theatre, it’s worth sticking around for the nighttime light show. 

How to prepare before cycling abroad

Professional cycling coach Fasi Chan from Invis Cycling shares his top tips for cycling safely in a new town.

Practical road tips:

• Familiarise yourself with local road rules, signs and traffic light systems, as they may differ from those in your home city or country. For example, helmets are mandatory for road cyclists in some countries, like Australia. Leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles and cyclists. Always make allowances for the fact that others on the road may not have noticed you.
• Pay extra attention when approaching junctions and make sure you know who has the right of way.

Travel:

• If you plan to take your own bike with you when you travel, be sure to notify your airline in advance and check the size of your bike does not exceed the limit for checked baggage.
• You will also need to deflate your bike’s tyres before checking it in.

Safety:

• Make sure you have comprehensive insurance coverage. Note that some insurance companies may categorise bicycles as a vehicle rather than sports equipment. Others consider cycling a high-risk activity, especially if you are competing in a race.
• Always keep an eye on your bike. Even when locked properly, there is a chance it could be stolen, and your insurance may not cover theft.