This one-day tour from Shanghai to Hangzhou was a fantastic surprise—combining the cutting-edge energy of Alibaba’s headquarters with the calm beauty of West Lake. The company was great from start to finish: I asked to swap a planned shopping stop for extra time at Alibaba, and they adjusted the schedule instantly. They also handled all transfers smoothly, so I didn’t have to worry about navigation.

The guide was incredibly knowledgeable. At Alibaba, he explained the company’s tech innovations (like AI applications and logistics systems) in easy-to-understand terms and helped me get the most out of the visitor center. At West Lake, he shared stories about the lake’s myths and took me to a quiet pier for the best photos, away from the crowds.

The driver and car were top-notch: the vehicle was spotless, and he drove steadily, even in Hangzhou’s rush hour. He arrived on time, helped with my bag, and had water ready for the drive back to Shanghai.

The itinerary balanced both spots perfectly—enough time to explore Alibaba without feeling rushed, and a relaxing West Lake visit to wind down. It’s rare to find a tour that mixes tech and nature so well, but this one nailed it.

If you want to experience Hangzhou’s modern and traditional sides in a day, this tour is a must. I left feeling inspired by Alibaba and charmed by West Lake—total win!

Reviewed to: Hangzhou Day Trip from Shanghai: Explore Alibaba's Headquarters & West Lake