Hangzhou Silk Town

Overview
Hangzhou Silk is magnificent and beautiful, the top in China by its good quality and fashionable design. Silk products are breathable and have good moisture absorption, soft and smooth by touching, feeling comfortable, gloss, and generous. It has been well-known as "Soft Gold". In the early 13th century, Italian traveller Marco Polo gave highly appraise for Hangzhou silk in his book «Travel of Marco Polo>. He described Hangzhou as "the city of Heaven" in his eyes.

The city of Hangzhou, on the bank of West Lake in Zhejiang Province, has long been called the Capital of Silk. In the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), the city had many silk workshops, and in recent years, along with the rapid economic development of the city, the China Silk Town was estalished here.

Information
Admission:Free

Hours: 8:30-17:30 Daily

How to get there: Take bus 5,18,8,21,59 get off at the Hangzhou Zhongguo Si Chou Cheng Station

History & Background
Found in 1987, hangzhou China Silk Town, also called Zhong Guo Si Chou Cheng in Hangzhou is one of the new destinations of the itinerary for traval " Picturesque South Yangtze and Landscape of Zhejiang". The street is the golden calling card of the ancient and historical Silk City Hangzhou.

It is located at the central area of Hangzhou City between Feng Qi Road on the south and Ti Yu Chang Road on the north, Xinhua Road on the east and Western Jian Kang Road on the west with a length of 1150m and an area of about 25,000 m2. Starting from some 70 stores, the silk town at present has more than 800 stores dealing in various silk fabrics, silk clothes, ties, scarves and all kinds of raw silk. 

Architecture
The architectures on the street are of classically elegant styles and deep cultural atmosphere with various kinds of silk merchandises. The street incarnates the grace and the beauty of Silk Road. The China Silk Town is the first professional product market in Hangzhou as well as the first featured blocks in China. Their products are sold not only throughout China but also to places as far as Europe, America, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Middle East. With the annual market sales reaching RMB 4.3 billion Yuan, the annual taxation as high as RMB 150 million Yuan and the annual traffic up to more than 10 million, it has now become the biggest silk trade center in Hangzhou.

What to See in Hangzhou Silk Town
When you visit Hangzhou Silk Town, you’ll find a fascinating mix of history, craftsmanship, and modern shopping. Start with the silk factories and workshops, where you can observe traditional weaving, dyeing, and embroidery techniques still in practice today. Don’t miss the exhibition halls and mini-museums, which showcase the evolution of Hangzhou silk, from ancient garments to contemporary designs. Live demonstrations often let visitors try hands-on activities, such as threading a loom or crafting a small embroidered piece. Alongside these cultural experiences, the area features boutique stores and showrooms, offering a wide selection of scarves, robes, bedding, and other silk products, giving you the perfect opportunity to shop for authentic Hangzhou silk while learning about its rich heritage.

Shopping for Silk Products
Hangzhou Silk Town is a paradise for silk lovers and shoppers looking for authentic, high-quality silk products. You can find a wide range of items, from luxury silk scarves, robes, and ties to silk bedding, curtains, and embroidered garments. Specialty boutiques and large showrooms offer both traditional designs and modern styles, making it easy to find something for every taste. Don’t forget to visit the China National Silk Museum shop and Hubin Silk City, where you can explore premium fabrics and learn tips on identifying genuine silk. For travelers seeking souvenirs, silk accessories and small embroidered items make perfect keepsakes. When shopping, it’s helpful to check the texture, sheen, and authenticity tags to ensure you’re getting genuine Hangzhou silk.

Tips for Travelers
Best Time to Visit: Mornings are ideal for factory tours and demonstrations, while afternoons are better for shopping when stores are fully open.
Time Needed: Allocate 2–4 hours to explore workshops, exhibitions, and shops comfortably.
Payment Methods: Most shops accept Alipay, WeChat Pay, and major credit cards; carrying some cash is still recommended.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes for walking through factory areas and showrooms.
Authenticity Check: Look for labels, texture, and sheen to ensure you’re buying genuine silk.
Photography: Ask for permission in workshops or factory areas before taking photos.
Combine Visits: Pair your trip with nearby attractions like West Lake or Qinghefang Historic Street for a full-day experience.

Nearby Attractions
West Lake – A UNESCO World Heritage Site just 15 minutes away, famous for its scenic beauty, boat rides, and picturesque walking paths.

Hefang Street – A lively historic street lined with traditional shops, tea houses, and local snacks, perfect for a cultural stroll.

China National Silk Museum – Located around 20 minutes away, this museum offers deep insights into China’s silk history, weaving techniques, and ancient artifacts.

Leifeng Pagoda – A reconstructed ancient pagoda offering panoramic views of West Lake and Hangzhou’s skyline.

Orioles Singing in the Willows Park – A peaceful garden near West Lake, ideal for relaxing after shopping in Silk Town.

Tour The Silk Town with Your Way Holiday 
We design private and tailor-made Hangzhou Tours customized to your style of travel at affordable local prices.  We will provide a private & spacious car and a local professional tour guide with over 5 years guiding experience only work for you or your group. Transport, ticket, and dining (We find the most authentic dishes popular with locals) all we will arrange for you according your requirements. Please check our most popular Hangzhou Tours including The Qianjiang New Town as below: 

Hangzhou Museum & Culture Day Tour Hangzhou Half Day Sighiseeing Tour: Westlake,Dragon Well Tea Plantation, Hefang Old Street

Are the above sample tour programs not suitable for you? We have more Hangzhou Tours. Our tours can be tailor-made based on your requirements and budget to create unique Hangzhou experiences that allow you to interact with the local people and culture. We are Hangzhou travel experts who know what your guidebook and foreign agencies don't.  Our enthusiastic tour expert will promptly reply you in details within 24 hours.