Hefang Street - A Historic & Cultural Street in Hangzhou

Written by Veronica | Updated February 08,2026

Hefang Street, or 河坊街 in Chinese, is in Hangzhou, the capital city of Zhejiang Province in China. It’s of great historical and cultural significance with an origin dating back to Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), when Hangzhou flourished as the country’s capital.

Hangzhou was the hub where commercial trade bloomed and intellectual movements took place. And Hefang Street was the city’s primary commercial channel with shops, eateries, teahouses, and entertainment.

Today, Hefang Street preserves its ancient architecture and a sense of past. Many tourists travel to Hangzhou to see this old cultural street.

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Fast Facts about Hefang Street
Why Visit Hefang Street
The History of Hefang Street
What to See and Do on Hefang Street
What and Where to Eat on Hefang Street
The Suggested Traveling Route of Hengfang Street:
Best Time to Visit Hefang Street
How to Get to Hefang Street and Travel Around
Useful Travel Tips for Hefang Street
Attractions nearby Hefang Street
Explore Hangzhou with China Xian Tour

Fast Facts about Hefang Street

Location: Hefang Street, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China, 310002
Chinese name: 河坊街or 清河坊
Opening hours: all day, but stores will be closed around 22:00
Ticket price: free, some attractions require an entrance fee
Recommended visit time: 2-3 hours
Best time of the year: all year around, but it can be very crowded on public holidays and weekends
Highlights: Rich historical and cultural heritage, well-preserved traditional architecture, centuries-old shops & craft stores, traditional market vibe, diverse traditional snacks, etc.
Suited to: anyone interested in Hangzhou’s culture, history, food

Why Visit Hefang Street

A well-preserved ancient street: Itstill retains the layout and architecture built in the Southern Song Dynasty, which offers a vivid glimpse into Hangzhou’s golden age as the nation’s
Time-honored commercial heritage: This street is also home to century-old shops (e.g., Kong Fengchun Powder Shop, Zhang Xiaoquan Scissors Shop) that have shaped Hangzhou’s “five local specialties.”
Deep dive into traditional culture:Explore the sites from centuries-old Chinese medicine pharmacies to lively handicraft workshops. It’s a living museum of intangible cultural heritage.l
Vibrant night market: When it gets dark, the street will transform into a bustling night scene with food stalls, handicrafts, and occasional cultural performances.
Proximity to key sites:You can reach it with just a short walk from historic areas like Southern Song Imperial Street and cultural landmarks such as the Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

The History of Hefang Street

Hangzhou served as the capital during the Southern Song Dynasty (1131–1162), and the royal family, officials, and nobles were erected in the Later Generations Street, Qingbo Gate neighbourhood of Hangzhou.Hangzhou served as the capital during the Southern Song Dynasty (1131–1162), and the royal family mansions and officials were erected in the Later Generations Street, Qingbo Gate neighbourhood of Hangzhou. Additionally, there were a lot of people burning incense at the Wushan temple, which made Hefang street merchants quite successful. Zhang Jun, the king of Qinghe County, also resided at Qinghefang, the centre section of Hefang Street.

At the end of the Qing Dynasty and the beginning of the Ming Dynasty, the famous “four big shops” in Hefang Street were Kong Fengchun Fragrant Powder shop, Mi Da Chang Hanyan, Bandung Ham Shop and Zhang Yunsheng Hat Village. The name suggests that men and women of all ages were shopping to sell items on Hefang Street at the time. The “five Hangzhou local specialties”—Hangzhou powder, Hangzhou scissors, Hangzhou fan, Hangzhou smoke, and Hangzhou line—are what make Hangzhou famous. Of these, Hang powder is obviously the previously mentioned Kong Fengchun powder shop, Hang scissors is Zhang Xiaoquan scissors shop, Hang fan is Wang Xingji fan village, Hang smoke, and Hang line is the special silk thread from the thriving Hangzhou silk era.

What to See and Do on Hefang Street

Hefang Street offers a captivating journey through Hangzhou’s history, culture, and daily life. Here’s a curated guide to its highlights:

Feeling Traditional Chinese Medicine Culture

Hefang Street is a living testament to China’s millennia-old healing traditions. Visit Traditional Chinese Medicine where ancient remedies and healing practices are showcased. Hefang Street is home to many medicine shops and families practicing Chinese medicine throughout history. Some of the shops survived till this day, such as Hu Qing Yu Tang, Yezhongde Tang, Baohe Tang, Fanghuichun Tang.

Huqing Yutang

Admission: 10 RMB, can purchase ticket on-site.
Chinese name: 胡庆余堂博物馆

Huqing Yutang is a medicine shop founded by Hu Xueyan in 1874 (the thirteenth year of Tongzhi of Qing Dynasty), located in Qinghefang. From the Southern Song Dynasty to the Ming and Qing dynasties, a “medicine shop” corridor was gradually formed in Hefang Street. The Chinese time-honoured brand Hu Qing Yu Chinese Pharmacy has the most ornamental value, the most humanistic traits, and the most historical style.

Fang Huichun Chinese Pharmacy

Fang Huichun Chinese Pharmacy, founded in 1649, is a time-honored Chinese medical museum with a history of more than 360 years. It was founded in Hefang Street by Fang Qingyi, a Hangzhou native from a family of traditional Chinese medicine.

Popular from the early Qing Dynasty to the late Qing Dynasty and the Republic of China, Fang Huichun Chinese Pharmacy processed different pills and powders in accordance with the legislation, followed old prescriptions, and chose medicinal materials. In October 2001, Fang Huichun Chinese Pharmacy reopened due to the reconstruction of Hangzhou Hefang Street Historical Block.

Discovering Interesting Museums

The street’s eclectic museums unveil layers of Hangzhou’s identity. Thanks to their unique “living heritage” model and immersive experience, these museums on Hefang Street have become a window for visitors to look into traditional Chinese craftsmanship and deeply appreciate Song Dynasty culture. Beyond the many exhibits in the museums, the ancient buildings themselves are historical artifacts.

Zhu Bingren Copper Sculpture Museum

Admission: Free – No reservation required.
Chinese name: 朱炳仁铜雕艺术博物馆 (江南铜屋)

Zhu Bingren Copper Sculpture Museum is the only museum dedicated to copper sculpture in China. Occupying about 3,588 square yards (3,000 square meters), the museum is built a Ming and Qing Dynasty Jiangnan style. In this Jiangnan-style mansion, you can see a collection of 1,215 precious copper artworks of Zhu Bingren, China’s National Master of Arts and Crafts. Except for the wall and the floor, everything else, including furniture, are all either made by copper or decorated with copper. That’s 56 ton of copper in total! Inside, you’ll see beautiful copper paintings, copper calligraphies, copper murals and copper statues. Meanwhile, the Ancient Ceramics Museum offers a tactile journey through time, showcasing delicate Tang tri-color glazes and Song celadons.

Hangzhou World Numismatic Museum

Hangzhou World Numismatic Museum, founded on June 6, 1999, is located at No. 178 Hefang Street. It is one of the first ten private museums in China. It is currently one of the member units of the Chinese National Committee of the International Numismatic and Banking Museum Committee under UNESCO, and is a museum focusing on the collection, display, display and research of domestic and foreign coins.

Admiring Elegant Handicrafts on Hefang Street

As you stroll along the street, you’ll see skilled artisans at work demonstrating the artistry and craftsmanship of ancient Chinese traditions.

You would feel surprised when witness the amazing process of paper cutting as delicate patterns come to life before your eyes. Sugar-blowing artists can transform molten sugar into intricate and vivid characters. And also clay figurine makers skillfully mold clay into detailed sculptures. These talented artists, indeed, carry on the rich cultural heritage of Chinese traditions.

Wangxingji Fans, known as a “Wonder of Hangzhou” since 1875, has crafted over 10,000 designs of fan, making every fan a fusion of artistry and utility. Besides, Wuyue Family also invites visitors to watch indigo weavers create Medicine Spot Cloth, which is a fabric steeped in rural tradition.

Visiting Celebrities’ Former Residences

Former residence of Hu Xueyan

Admission: 20 RMB – Tickets available for purchase on-site or through online booking platforms.

Step into the lives of Hefang Street’s most storied residents. former residence of Hu Xueyan, a well-preserved mansion once owned by a prominent Qing Dynasty businessman. The Qinghefang Ancient Well is an architectural marvel that has sustained the life of the locals for centuries. The residence is a blend of Chinese elegance and Western flair, features sprawling gardens with pavilions and arched bridges.

Yu Qian’s Former Residence

Also remember to visit Yu Qian’s Former Residence, a humble abode of the Ming statesman. It centers on a tranquil courtyard where a stele and poetic screen wall honor his integrity.

Enjoying Nightlife and Performances

After the sun sets, Hefang Street turns into a bustling night market with countless stalls selling handicrafts and food. Come here after dinner for a night stroll along the banks of the Shengli River or Wushan Square.

Make sure you catch the renowned Impression West Lake show, a spectacular outdoor performance directed by Zhang Yimou. It takes West Lake as its stage to showcase the cultural heritage of Hangzhou through music, dance, and stunning visual effects. The show is about 4-5 kilometers from Hefang Street.

Acquiring Unique Souvenirs

Treasure hunt for some souvenirs on Hefang Street that capture the essence of Hangzhou. There are exquisite Jiangnan silk products, known for their softness and elegance. You’ll find an assortment of finely crafted tea sets with delicate and colorful patterns, beautifully designed paper fans, and traditional Chinese oiled paper umbrellas.

Enjoy the Night View and Performances

Related reading: Top 10 Things to Do in Hangzhou

Hangzhou Hefang Street Food — Indulge in Local Delicacies on Hefang Street

What and Where to Eat on Hefang Street

There’s plenty of food to satisfy your tastebuds on Hefang Street, from traditional snacks to delightful restaurants. Some of the must-try Hangzhou street snacks include Dingsheng Cake (定胜糕), Scallion Pancake with Golden Rooster Paste (葱包桧), Dragon Beard Candy (龙须糖), and fried stinky tofu (臭豆腐). Each of them offers a true taste of Hangzhou’s culinary essence. The many food stalls and time-honored brands line the street, creating a vibrant scene.

Top Recommended Restaurants on Hefang Street

Panfangchun Pan-Fried Dumplings . Michelin Restaurant (Zhongshan South Road Branch)

This is a perfect option for budget-friendly gourmets. Each pan-fried dumpling costs just 1 RMB. You can pair the dumpling with their Lo Mein which costs only 7 RMB for an exceptional value.

Address: 479 Zhongshan South Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou (Apple Maps / Gaode Maps)
Opening Hours:Daily, 06:00-14:00
Average Cost:โ€ 16 RMB per person

Jiang Shunfa – A Dingsheng Cake Shop

Dingsheng Cake is very popular among locals, especially among students for its auspicious symbolism. Dingsheng in Chinese means “Guaranteed Triumph”. You can buy one to enjoy its delicious texture and seek a favorable omen.

Address: No. 236 Hefang Street, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou (Apple Maps / Gaode Maps)
Opening Hours: Daily, 09:00–21:00
Average Cost: 4 RMB per person

The Suggested Traveling Route of Hengfang Street:

Arranging your time and route properly can help you avoid crowds and make the most of your visit. Below is a recommended traveling route Hefang Street for first-time visitors.

Start with a visit to Hu Xueyan’s Former Residence at around 8:00 AM. Then, continue your visit to Hu Qing Yu Tang and Fanghuichun Tang (both sees smaller crowds before 10:00 AM).

After lunch, start your afternoon with a visit to Hangzhou Museum (about 400 meters from Hefang Street, needs an appointment). Following this, consider a visit to Hangzhou World Numismatic Museum (only open on weekdays) and Zhubiengren Bronze Museum. In the evening, lose yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Hefang Street Night Market.

Recommended route based on geographical distribution of the attractions:

Or, you can explore Hefang Street with following route, which seamlessly combines geographical proximity with cultural thematic connections. The total walking distance is about 2.5 kilometers:

Willow Sea Warblers → Wushan Square → Hangzhou Museum →China Museum of Finance and Taxation → Maitreya Buddha Sculpture → Jiangnan Copper House → Huqing Yutang Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine [Admission fee: 10 yuan] → Zhongyi Pavilion → Xinglinting → Wuliuxiang Historical District

Best Time to Visit Hefang Street

Feel free to plan your Hangzhou tour to Hefang Street any time of the year, since the climate in Hangzhou is relatively mild. But it’s important to note that during public holidays and weekends, Hefang Street sees a huge spike in visiting tourists. So be sure to check the calendar for China public holiday and avoid those times.

The best time of day to visit Hefang Street in Hangzhou is in the evening from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This period is when the street is brightly lit, the night market at its most lively. However, always be aware of dense crowds. Or, you can visit certain museums on the street in the late afternoon before immersing yourself in the vibrant night atmosphere of the street.

How to Get to Hefang Street and Travel Around

How to Get to Hefang Street

Metro: Metro is the most convenient option to reach Hefang Street. You can take Metro Line 7 or Line 1 to Wu Shan Square Station. Take exit D and walk a few minutes to the entrance of the street.

Bus: Hefang Street is easily accessible by bus as well. Board any one of bus No.8, 60, 127, 195, 208, 216, 228, 280, 808, and Y6, and get off at Gulou Station. The station is only a 5-minute from Hefang Street.

Taxi: The easiest and quickest way to get to Hefang Street is taking a taxi. You can get a taxi from anywhere in the city. The fare largely depends on the distance and traffic conditions.

People staying near West Lake, such as Hubin or Nanshan Road areas, can consider ride a bike or walk to Hefang Street in about 15-30 minutes. This allows you to enjoy the scenery from West Lake to Wushan Square along the way.

How to Travel around Hefang Street

It is primarily on foot to get around Hefang Street. The central section of the street, from Wushan Square to Zhongshan Middle Road, is a purely pedestrian area spanning about 460 meters. All vehicles are prohibited here, allowing visitors to freely stroll and admire the Ming and Qing style architecture, time-honored shops, and intangible cultural heritage performances.

Good to know:

Hefang Street and the adjacent Southern Song Imperial Street (Nansong Yujie), Dajing Alley, Datong Alley, and Hangzhou Museum, among others, form a seamless pedestrian network. After visiting Hefang Street, visitors can easily continue their exploration to the Chenghuang Pavilion and Hangzhou Museum to the west, Southern Song Imperial Street to the east, and the Wuliu Lane Historical District to the north.

Useful Travel Tips for Hefang Street

Huqingyu Tang Chinese Medicine Museum and Fanghuichun Tang sees relatively smaller crowds before 10:00 AM. Making an early visit allows for a more in-depth appreciation of traditional Chinese medicine culture.
Zhu Bingren Copper Sculpture Museum usually open to the late night at around 22:00. You are advised to visit the museum after 7:00 in the evening to avoid tour groups and enjoy the bronze exhibits under striking lighting effects.
Hangzhou World Numismatic Museum is closed on weekends. The museum is free to visit but need an appointment for entry.
Most other attractions on the Qing Hefang Street don’t have fixed closing days.
Luggage Storage: If you carry baggage, there are self-service lockers available at the metro station near Hefang Street. Ask the station staff to assist if you can’t find them.
Where to stay: It is easy to find many hotels of different standards and boutique guesthouses around Wushan Square and Qinghefang. If you want to explore the night views, staying around this area will offer a convenient access to evening strolls.

Attractions nearby Hefang Street

South Song Imperial Street is a historica street with remnants of the ancient city wall, gate, and moat from South Song Dynasty. It is only a 10-minute walk from Hefang Street.

Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine is the only museum of its kind in China, displaying over 14,000 items related to traditional Chinese medicine. You’ll learn about various traditional therapies and treatments. It is just off Hefang Street.

Explore Hangzhou with China Xian Tour

Being a wonderful blend of history, culture, cuisine, and shopping, Hefang Street definitely deserves a half-day immersive experience. Here, you can get a quick glimpse into the vivid life and cultural charm in Hangzhou. If you want an in-depth experience beyond sightseeing, or want a deeper exploration of Hangzhou, consider book a guided tour from a reliable China travel agency, like China Xian Tour. Our local professional English-speaking guide will share stories and insights, making your visit more enjoyable and meaningful. Our travel consultants are always ready to provide travel ideas or customize trips based on your requirements.

Hefang Street: The Historical Street Carrying Hangzhou’s Rich Cultural Heritage