It’s possible to feel rushed if you plan to visit South Putuo Temple, Botanical Garden, and Bell Tower & Drum Tower Cable Car on the same day. Each of these attractions has its own unique charm and history, but they are not necessarily clustered together in a convenient area.
South Putuo Temple is located in west Hangzhou, while the Botanical Garden is situated near West Lake. The Bell Tower & Drum Tower Cable Car starts from East Qingchun Road and runs along the Qiantang River Bund. This means you’ll need to spend some time traveling between locations, which could eat into your overall visit time.
To make the most of your day, I recommend prioritizing one or two main attractions that interest you the most, and then allocate sufficient time for each location. You may also consider visiting nearby restaurants or cafes in between destinations to rest and recharge before moving on to the next spot.
However, if you’re short on time but still want to fit all three places into your day, I suggest leaving early (around 8-9 am) to visit South Putuo Temple, then head to the Botanical Garden for a leisurely stroll. After lunch, take the Bell Tower & Drum Tower Cable Car and enjoy the views while learning about Hangzhou’s history.
Remember to plan ahead, considering travel time between locations as well as your own energy levels throughout the day. With some careful planning, you can still make it work!