Getting Around Hangzhou
Practical guidance on navigating the city by bus and other local transport.
By Bus
The Local Bus Network
Hangzhou has an extensive bus network, though schedules, route information, and on-board announcements are generally displayed and spoken in Chinese. Visitors unfamiliar with the language can find it helpful to use a mapping app on a mobile phone to track routes and movement while riding, since numbering shown in such apps generally matches what appears on the buses themselves.
Route prefixes give a quick clue about what kind of service to expect before boarding, which is useful when comparing several buses that stop at the same corner.
While the bus network covers nearly every corner of the city, visitors will also find that Hangzhou's metro system offers a fast and efficient way to move between major districts and landmarks. The metro lines connect the railway station, the central business areas, and the scenic lakeside zone, making it a convenient option for those hoping to avoid traffic congestion. Stations are typically well-signposted with bilingual signage, which eases navigation for international travelers. Purchasing tickets is straightforward at self-service machines, and mobile payment options are widely accepted, so most visitors can board a train within minutes of arriving at a station.
For a more intimate and leisurely way to see the city, bicycles and electric scooters are a popular choice among both locals and tourists. Shared-bike services are plentiful throughout Hangzhou, with docking stations scattered along major roads and near tourist attractions. The city's flat terrain and dedicated cycling lanes make riding a pleasant experience, especially along the lakeside paths where the scenery is at its best. Walking, of course, remains the most rewarding way to explore the older neighborhoods and alleyways, where traditional architecture and small teahouses reveal a quieter side of the city that modern transport often passes by.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps offer a comfortable alternative for those traveling with luggage, in a group, or during late hours. Fares are metered and generally reasonable, and ride-hailing services provide the added convenience of knowing your fare in advance. When hailing a taxi on the street, it helps to have your destination written down in Chinese characters, as many drivers are not fluent in English. For longer journeys between cities, the high-speed rail network makes day trips to nearby destinations effortless, and the bus station at the city's edge provides budget-friendly regional connections for travelers willing to trade a little comfort for savings.
Route Types
Reading the Route Prefixes
| Prefix | Meaning |
|---|---|
| No prefix | Standard routes, generally without air conditioning |
| K | Air-conditioned routes |
| Y | Designated tourist routes |
| B | Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines |
Checking a route's prefix before boarding can help travelers choose between a standard local bus, an air-conditioned option, a tourist-oriented service, or a faster BRT line depending on the trip.
Planning Ahead
Tips for Riders
Air-Conditioned Routes
Look for the K prefix on hotter days for a more comfortable ride.
Tourist Routes
Y-prefixed buses are aimed at visitors heading toward popular sights.
BRT Lines
B-prefixed routes offer faster, dedicated-lane travel across the city.
Mapping Apps
A mobile mapping app can help track routes and stops in real time.
Explore Further