The historic centre of Hangzhou is compact and easily negotiable on foot. Many of the most attractive tourism attractions are located around West Lake, and walking maps are available from hotels and the Hangzhou Tourism Commission Office at 228 Yanan Road (by Jiangjun Road). Taxis are cheap, reliably metered and easy to flag down for trips to Lingyin Temple, Dragon Well and around the city at night.

A comprehensive bus network plies the city streets, though buses should only be taken by persons capable of reading and speaking mandarin. A RMB100 billion metro system is currently in the early stages of construction, with the first line due to open in 2010. In total, eight lines are planned totalling 278km (172 miles) of track.

Taxis are plentiful, safe and reliable, and can be flagged down throughout the city. Hotels can arrange a taxi for longer trips or journeys to the airport or rail station. Calling a cab company should only be attempted by guests who speak fluent Chinese, as no English will be spoken. Hangzhou Taxis (tel: (571) 8535 0000 or 8545 0077).

Foreigners must have a valid Chinese driving licence to drive in China. Car rental is offered by Zhejiang Foreign Affairs Travel Bus Co (tel: (571) 8702 6218).

Bicycle hire is very popular, and a great way to explore the West Lake and its parks. Yiyoutang Company has 27 bicycle rental points around the lake.