A business traveller’s guide to Hangzhou

Once declared by Marco Polo to be “the finest and most splendid city in the world”, Hangzhou has been a major trading port along the ancient Grand Canal for more than 1,500 years.

Today, the capital of Zhejiang province has evolved into a flourishing cultural and commercial hub. The city is home to eight Fortune 500 firms, including tech giant Alibaba and automotive conglomerate Geely, as well as research and development centres for ByteDance, Oppo and Vivo. With hundreds of startups and incubators, the city has also become an attractive destination for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Follow our guide to get the most out of your stay in Hangzhou while on business.

Where to start

A trip to Hangzhou is incomplete without visiting the West Lake, the city’s crown jewel. The lake’s eastern edge is where modernity meets tradition, with the downtown skyline framing ancient pagodas and ornamental trees. The lake is a magnet for travellers seeking serenity and scenic beauty, drawing millions of visitors year-round.

Across the Qiantang River to the east, the sleek Binjiang district is a symbol of international prestige, hosting events from the G20 Summit in 2016 to the more recent Asian Games Opening Ceremony in 2023. Binjiang is also becoming a popular social hangout spot thanks to its sophisticated riverside escapes, perfect for unwinding after a day of meetings.

Out west, past the massive Xixi National Wetland Park, the futuristic Yuhang district is Hangzhou’s innovation zone. Here you’ll find the headquarters of the Chinese Mainland’s leading tech giants.

Where to take clients

Hangzhou got its first Michelin Guide in 2023, but Zhejiang fare has long been celebrated as one of China’s eight great cuisines.

Among the Michelin-starred picks, Longjing Manor stands out with its exclusive farm-to-table experience in eight private rooms. Other notable venues include Ambré Ciel , known for its French-Chinese fusion dishes, and Guiyu, offering Zhejiang classics.

For a more casual yet equally impressive experience, Grandma’s Home is a homegrown favourite-turned-international hit, with its first outpost opening in New York earlier this year. Lou Wai Lou ’s Gushan branch offers crowd-pleasers like dongpo pork and longjing shrimp with stunning lake views, while the State Guest House lets you savour the official G20 menu.

For discussions over drinks, the Kerry Centre on Yan’an Road houses numerous cafés. Try local craft brews at Midtown Brewery or Italian bites and cocktails at Alimentari Grande .

Where to stay

International hotel brands with properties near West Lake offer prime access to both the city’s downtown and scenic attractions.

The Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake seamlessly blends modern luxury with traditional Hangzhou aesthetics, providing a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. For a boutique experience, the Chaptel offers a unique stay in renovated shikumen villas, showcasing 1930s Art Deco charm.

Closer to the riverfront, the Park Hyatt Hangzhou provides convenient cross-city access. If you’re based in Binjiang, the Intercontinental Hangzhou boasts a prime location along the Qiantang River.

What to say

Living in a city with abundant access to nature means Hangzhou residents are spoilt for choice when it comes to parks and outdoor activities. Start the conversation by asking about their preferred spots to enjoy Hangzhou’s natural beauty away from the throngs of tourists. They’ll be happy to share hiking tips and reveal hidden gems

What to know

Business etiquette in Hangzhou varies depending on the type of company you’re dealing with. Traditional companies typically adhere to standard Chinese business customs, such as formal seating arrangements at banquets and specific rules about who pays the bill. It’s best to dress smartly, though not overly formally, in these settings. By contrast, meetings with e-commerce firms and tech startups tend to be more relaxed; these companies prioritise efficiency and dress is usually more casual. After dinner, it’s not uncommon for people to head back to the office to continue working.

Downtime done right

If you’re short on time, a quick 30-minute hike up Baoshi Mountain on the north end of West Lake offers some of the city’s best views. It’s a favourite spot among Hangzhou dwellers; an early start might help you avoid the crowds.

Visitors with a little more time can head to Lingyin Temple , one of the Chinese Mainland’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temples, in the lush hills surrounding the lake. Trek to the Longjing or Meijiawu tea fields to experience the city’s rich tea culture.

Take something home

Shops and markets around the city offer endless choices of fabrics, garments and raw silk. Visit Hefang Street to find unique handicrafts such as snuff boxes, calligraphy, fans and bamboo ornaments.

Pro tip: go in the evening, when the bustling night market comes alive.