Buzz
Mytour provides travelers with an essential Zhejiang travel guide, featuring useful information on destinations, visa processes, transportation, local cuisine, accommodations, and key travel tips for visiting the region.
Overview | Best Time to Visit Zhejiang | Transportation Options | China Visa Application | Top Attractions | Local Cuisine | Travel Tips for Zhejiang
Overview of Zhejiang Tourism
Zhejiang is a coastal province in Eastern China, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural history, and diverse culinary traditions. Zhejiang tourism boasts famous attractions such as Wuzhen, Xitang, West Lake, Putuo Mountain, and Thousand Island Lake. It is considered an ideal destination for travelers who wish to explore the beauty of nature, history, and Chinese culture. The region promises unforgettable and extraordinary experiences for all visitors.
Best Time to Travel to Zhejiang
Each season in Zhejiang offers unique and memorable experiences. Travelers can choose the ideal time to visit based on their personal preferences.
Spring (March – May)
Spring is the perfect season for traveling to Zhejiang. The weather is warm, and it’s the time when cherry blossoms and other flowers bloom, creating picturesque landscapes.
Summer (June – August)
Summer in Zhejiang can be quite hot, but it’s an excellent time to explore beaches and enjoy fresh seafood. To escape the city heat, head to Mogan Shan National Park, where you can relax in the cool and serene mountain environment.
Autumn (September – November)
If you enjoy cool weather and the vibrant autumn foliage, then autumn is the perfect time to explore Zhejiang. This season also features traditional festivals, such as the Mid-Autumn Festival, where you can savor mooncakes and admire the full moon. Autumn is also an ideal time to visit Hangzhou and the Anji hot springs.
Winter (December – February)
Winter in Zhejiang is quite cold, but it’s still a wonderful time to experience the local tea culture, with cozy tea-tasting sessions in the chilly weather. Additionally, areas like the ancient town of Wuzhen remain enchanting during winter, offering a glimpse into traditional lifestyles and culture.
Transportation Options
Traveling to Zhejiang from Vietnam
By Air
Travelers from Vietnam visiting Zhejiang, China, can opt for air travel. However, there are currently no direct flights to Zhejiang, so a layover at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport or Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is necessary before continuing to Hangzhou, Zhejiang.
Getting Around in Zhejiang
In Zhejiang, you can choose from various transportation options such as taxis, buses, trams, trains, or boats. If you have a basic understanding of Chinese or English, buses and trains are highly recommended due to their affordability.
Travel Tips
Visa: Vietnamese travelers must obtain a visa to enter China. It’s advisable to apply for a visa at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Vietnam before your trip.
Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry.
Health: Ensure you are up-to-date with necessary vaccinations before traveling. Consider purchasing travel insurance that includes international medical coverage.
Language: While English is increasingly used in major Chinese cities, learning a few basic phrases in Chinese can make communication easier during your trip.
Applying for a China Visa
To apply for a China visa, you need to prepare and follow the steps outlined by the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Vietnam.
Step 1: Prepare the Required Documents
The documents for a Chinese tourist visa typically include:
Original Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the intended entry date and have at least two blank pages.
Portrait Photo: Standard size of 4x6 cm, white background, taken within the last six months.
Visa Application Form: Fully completed and signed according to the format specified by the Chinese Embassy/Consulate.
of National ID Card or Citizen Identification Card.
Travel Itinerary: Includes details of flight schedules, hotel bookings, and sightseeing plans.
Proof of Financial Means: Savings book, bank statements, or other documents demonstrating sufficient funds to cover the trip.
Step 2: Submit the Application
Submission Location: Visa applications can be submitted directly at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate, or through an authorized visa service.
Visa Fee: The visa fee depends on the type of visa and processing time. Detailed fee information is available on the official website or directly from the Embassy/Consulate.
Step 3: Track and Receive the Visa
After submitting your application, you may be asked for an interview or additional information. Monitor the application status and be prepared to provide any supplementary documents if requested. Processing time typically ranges from 4 to 5 working days, depending on the visa type and peak travel season.
Important Notes
Ensure all the information you provide is accurate and complete.
Check the visa validity and the number of permitted entries to plan your trip accordingly.
During peak travel seasons or due to unforeseen circumstances (such as pandemics), visa application procedures may change. Always verify the latest updates from the Chinese Embassy/Consulate or their official website.
Where to Submit China Visa Applications
For the visa types mentioned above, applicants must submit their documents through the China Visa Application Service Centers in Hanoi, Da Nang, or Ho Chi Minh City, rather than directly at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Vietnam as before.
China Visa Application Service Center in Hanoi
Address: 7th Floor, Truong Thinh Building, Trang An Complex, 1 Phung Chi Kien Street, Nghia Do Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi.
Phone: 024 3275 3888.
Fax: 024 3202 6359.
Email: [email protected].
Working Hours: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Monday to Friday (excluding holidays and Tet).
Service Area: 30 provinces and cities.
China Visa Application Service Center in Da Nang
Address: 8th Floor, Indochina Riverside Towers, 74 Bach Dang Street, Hai Chau District, Da Nang.
Tel: 023 6382 2211.
Fax: 023 6382 2212.
Email: [email protected].
Working Hours: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday to Friday (excluding holidays and Tet).
Service Area: 6 provinces and cities.
China Visa Application Service Center in Ho Chi Minh City
Address: P1607-1609, 16th Floor, SaiGon Trade Center, 37 Ton Duc Thang Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Tel: 0084-1900561599.
Email: [email protected].
Working Hours: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday to Friday (excluding holidays and Tet).
Service Area: 27 provinces and cities.
Note: VIP service hours are from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. If you opt for VIP service, you do not need to schedule an appointment as required for regular services.
Latest Update
*Starting from October 21, 2023, the China Visa Application Service Center in Hanoi has:
– Discontinued VIP application submissions, allowing only standard applications.
– The center now accepts applications only from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Monday to Friday.
*Processing Time for China Visa Applications:
– The standard visa processing time is 04 working days from the date of submission.
– Additional time for document supplementation, information verification, or unforeseen circumstances is not included in the standard processing time. In exceptional cases, applicants may request expedited or urgent processing, provided they submit a written explanation and relevant supporting documents.
Note:
The processing time starts from the submission date. To submit an application, applicants must book an online appointment in advance. The availability of appointment slots depends on the volume of applications at that time. Therefore, it is advisable to plan and submit your application at least 18 working days before your intended travel date.
The above processing times apply under normal circumstances. Some visa applications may require longer processing, making the timeline uncertain. In such cases, applicants must wait for further notification from the Embassy.
Currently, the Chinese Embassy does not offer expedited or urgent visa services. Therefore, travelers seeking faster processing for their China visa must use the VIP service, which allows document submission without an appointment but at a higher fee.
Processing times may vary and are subject to the Embassy's discretion.
Separate visas are required for visits to Macau or Hong Kong.
Top Attractions in Zhejiang
West Lake
West Lake, a renowned freshwater lake located west of Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province, is one of China's five most beautiful lakes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It boasts stunning natural scenery, crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and glimpses of ancient rooftops in the distance, creating a picturesque and harmonious landscape.
Nanxun Ancient Town
Visiting Nanxun Ancient Town offers a glimpse into a historic district rich in cultural heritage. The streets are lined with timeworn houses, moss-covered walls, and tiled roofs that bear the marks of history.
Mount Putuo
Mount Putuo, also known as 'Little Putuo,' is one of China's four sacred Buddhist mountains, alongside Mount Emei in Sichuan, Mount Jiuhua in Anhui, and Mount Wutai in Shanxi.
Mount Putuo features a 33-meter-tall bronze statue of the South Sea Guanyin, visible from various locations. The statue has two levels: the lower level showcases four bronze reliefs depicting legends of Guanyin Bodhisattva, while the upper level displays 500 unique statues of Guanyin. The statue was consecrated on September 29, 1997, during a ceremony where dark clouds and heavy rain suddenly cleared, and the sun shone brightly as the abbot declared the statue's unveiling.
Lingyin Temple
Lingyin Temple is an ancient and renowned Buddhist temple in Hangzhou, nestled in a serene and tranquil forest. It holds significant importance in Jiangnan Buddhism, with deep roots dating back to the Song Dynasty. A must-visit for devout Buddhists and nature lovers alike, Lingyin Temple stands as a spiritual and cultural landmark.
Wuzhen
One of the six most famous ancient towns in southern China, Wuzhen is often referred to as the 'Venice of the East.' This small town is nestled along a Jiangnan river, offering not only picturesque scenery but also a dedicated area for traditional crafts and workshops. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and cuisine.
This is considered the most bustling and vibrant shopping street in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, dating back to the Southern Song Dynasty. Preserved in its original state, the street features ancient buildings and long-standing traditional shops.
Pian Er Chuan Noodles
A renowned noodle dish featuring ingredients like pickled vegetables, bamboo shoots, and lean meat. With over 100 years of history, this dish has become a local tradition and a staple in daily meals. The ingredients are meticulously prepared, sliced, and boiled, earning the name 'Pian Er Chuan.'
Sanmen Blue Crab
Sanmen is renowned for over 200 years of blue crab farming. What sets Sanmen crabs apart is their large size, firm texture, robust build, and sweet flavor. The crab meat is highly prized for containing 18 amino acids, being rich in protein, and low in fat. This delicacy is often considered a valuable nutritional supplement and is used as a medicinal ingredient.
Dongpo Pork
When in Zhejiang, Dongpo Pork is a must-try dish. The main ingredient is carefully selected pork, with a ratio of 40% fat to 60% lean meat, cut into large chunks. It is then seasoned with various spices to create a rich and savory flavor.
The dish is named after Su Dongpo, a renowned poet, writer, calligrapher, and painter from the Tang and Song dynasties. He is credited with creating this iconic braised pork dish. Today, Dongpo Pork is a staple in Zhejiang cuisine and can be found in restaurants and eateries across the region. Each place offers its unique twist, but the dish consistently delivers exceptional taste.
Jinhua Ham
The ham boasts an appealing appearance, fresh meat, and a unique, enticing aroma, embodying the four elements of 'color, fragrance, taste, and form.' Hence, it is also known as the 'Four Perfections.' Historically, it was considered a Chinese tribute, embodying the essence of premium meat.
West Lake Vinegar Fish
This dish is made from fresh fish caught directly from West Lake. Before cooking, the fish is starved for 1-2 days to cleanse its digestive system of impurities.
The uniqueness of this dish lies in the strict control of heat during preparation. The fish is fried for just 3-4 minutes, then topped with a sweet and sour glaze, giving it a glossy finish. The dish features tender meat, a tangy flavor, and a fresh, distinctive taste.
Barley and Pork Cake
Also known as 'barley meatball cake,' this is a popular local delicacy in Zhejiang. The outer layer is made from fragrant, chewy barley flour, while the filling consists of finely minced pork. An interesting aspect of enjoying this dish is the use of three chopsticks: one in the left hand to hold the cake steady, and a pair in the right hand to pick it up and dip it in soy sauce or vinegar according to personal preference.
Beggar's Chicken
A highly enticing dish in Zhejiang is Beggar's Chicken, similar to Vietnamese clay pot chicken. The chicken is wrapped in lotus leaves, and when roasted, it releases a fragrant aroma with tender, juicy meat that leaves a lasting impression on diners.
Today, Beggar's Chicken is prepared with various ingredients and seasonings, but for the best flavor, choose a chicken weighing over one kilogram, free-range with firm meat, and pair it with dried lotus leaves and sesame oil. The chicken is marinated with soy sauce, star anise, wine, clove oil, pepper, salt, cinnamon, sugar, and a bit of seasoning powder for richness. For stuffing, pork, bamboo shoots, ginger, shrimp, and shallots are stir-fried and stuffed into the chicken, which is then sewn shut.
When cooked, the chicken becomes tender and succulent, with a chewy, crispy skin and sweet meat. The more you eat, the more addictive this unique dish becomes.
Important Tips for Traveling in Zhejiang
Required Documents:
Visa: Ensure you have obtained a Chinese visa before traveling to Zhejiang. Some nationalities may qualify for visa-free or e-visa policies, so check the latest updates from the Chinese Consulate or Embassy.
Identification: Always carry your passport and copies of important documents when going out.
Transportation: Zhejiang has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and subways. However, renting a scooter or using public bike services can be a fun way to explore the region.
Clothing: Pack weather-appropriate clothing, especially raincoats or umbrellas, as the province often experiences rain. If traveling in summer, bring lightweight clothing and sunscreen.
Language: While Mandarin is the primary language, preparing some basic English phrases can help you communicate with locals.
Source: Mytour.vn
***
Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour.vn
Mytour.vnApril 11, 2024
