Hangzhou, China: $70 Weekend Trip from Shanghai

If you've spent any time in Shanghai, you've probably heard of Hangzhou, famed for it's West Lake, silk scarves, and rich history. It's situated 200 km south of Shanghai and only 2 hours by train. And, with it's laid-back attitude and breathtaking scenery, what better way to spend your weekend?

The Budget:
Train ticket from Shanghai: ¥85
Shanghai Metro/Taxi: ¥18
Hangzhou Bus/Taxi: ¥6
Food (for the entire weekend): ¥88
Hostel: ¥50
Bike Rental: ¥25
Leifeng Pagoda: ¥40
Boat Ride: ¥50
Night Market Purchases: ¥50
TOTAL: ¥412 = $67

Hangzhou Travel Hacks

1. Take the Slow Train from Shanghai: Bullet trains to Hangzhou can break the bank, but a slow train (which takes about 3 hours each way) is only ¥85 ($14.5) round trip. Also, make sure you have your passport or you won't be allowed on the train!

2. Stay at a Budget Hotel on West Lake: There are dozens of hostels dotted around West Lake. I would recommend the Hangzhou International Youth Hostel for ¥50 ($8.33) per night. It has both mixed and female-only rooms, and the rooms have a rustic feel. Plus, it is right next to the lake and easily accessible by bus (which is a HUGE plus when trying to get back to the train station).

3. Flash your Student ID whenever you can: This goes for any sort of travel in China. Student discounts are EVERYWHERE! And all you have to do is show that student ID card to get up to 50% off most tourist attractions, like the Leifeng Pagoda and boat rides on West Lake.

4. Haggle for your Bike Rentals: Biking around West Lake is a must-do while in Hangzhou and you can easily find a bike rental stall in the area. The salesmen will try to squeeze as much money out of you as possible, especially if you have a foreign face. But don't fall for it. Threaten to walk away or say you found a cheaper deal nearby. We were able to secure day-long rentals for ¥25 ($4.16). However, be aware that you will have to leave some sort of collateral when you rent the bikes. We left our student IDs for the day (it was either that or our passports--no thank you!).

5. Visit the Wushan Night Market: THIS PLACE IS AWESOME! From silk scarves to customized sculptures to Chinese snacks, the Wushan Night Market is the place to be. Only a 15 minute walk from West Lake, make sure to stop by here from some yummy treats and unique trinkets. Just remember how you got there... night taxis are few and far between.

So, the next time you need a break from the city, check out Hangzhou! It won't disappoint you.
Check out a few pictures from my travels below: