Hangzhou Insider Mini-Hike: TCM, Hill Views and Wet Market

Kick off your tour with an optional lunch at a beautifully revitalized wooden courtyard. Here, you’ll savor creative fusion dishes crafted from local Hangzhou ingredients—think yellow wine pudding and herb-infused main courses—while getting to know your guide and fellow travelers over a delicious meal.

Your tour officially starts at the foot of Wu Shan Hill, once the overlook for the Song Dynasty’s royal courts, where lively local neighborhoods thrived below. Begin by exploring Da Jing Xiang: a web of historic alleyways lined with ancient courtyard residences and restored workshop spaces. As you walk, pass by heritage sites dedicated to traditional Chinese craftsmanship, including spots for scissors, umbrellas, and herbal medicine.

Next, visit a Chinese Medicine Museum, housed in a 200-year-old mansion that was once famous for having China’s largest shop sign. Run by a long-established local medicine brand, this museum offers a glimpse into the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), along with the beauty of classical Chinese garden design. Wrap up your visit with a complimentary cup of herbal tea in the grand old apothecary hall.

Afterward, embark on a gentle ascent of Wu Shan Hill— a climb steeped in legend and dotted with spiritual landmarks. Along the way, discover scattered Taoist and Buddhist temples, the fire-watching Cheng Huang Miao (City God Temple), zodiac-shaped rock formations, a hidden Buddha wall carving that only appears when wet, and a secret pavilion. From this pavilion, you’ll enjoy one of the most breathtaking panoramic views, taking in both West Lake and Hangzhou’s modern city skyline.

Finally, descend the hill and arrive at Da Ma Long Market—Hangzhou’s last old-school alley market, beloved by locals. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of traditional wet market culture: hear vendors calling out prices, watch locals bargain for fresh produce, smell sizzling street snacks, and spot unique Hangzhou treats that are hard to find anywhere else.