Emirates to Deploy Airbus A350 to This Ancient City and More

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DUBAI– UAE-based carrier, Emirates Airline (EK), will introduce its Airbus A350 on daily flights to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) starting 26 October 2025.

The move comes just three months after the airline inaugurated its service to the city, underscoring Emirates’ commitment to strengthening connectivity with mainland China.

Emirates Deploys A350 to Hangzhou

The introduction of the A350 to Hangzhou marks a strategic step in Emirates’ broader expansion across mainland China. Over the past year, Emirates (EK) has added new destinations and upgraded aircraft to support demand for both inbound and outbound travel.

Adnan Kazim, the airline’s Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted that deploying the A350 reflects Emirates’ goal of bringing its latest fleet and onboard products to China’s skies.

Flight EK310 will depart Dubai International Airport (DXB) at 04:15 and arrive in Hangzhou (HGH) at 16:00.
The return flight, EK311, leaves Hangzhou at 00:10 and lands back in Dubai at 06:10, offering travelers a convenient schedule for business and leisure travel between the two destinations.

The Airbus A350 is the first new aircraft type to join Emirates’ fleet since 2008, complementing its existing Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 operations in China.

The aircraft is designed with passenger comfort at its core, featuring Emirates’ updated cabin interiors, wider aisles, and higher ceilings across all classes. It also introduces advanced technology and next-generation in-flight entertainment, ensuring a modern travel experience.

Introduction of Premium Economy in Hangzhou

One of the most notable enhancements is the launch of Premium Economy service on the Hangzhou route. Emirates’ Premium Economy bridges the gap between Economy and Business Class, offering features that rival many airlines’ Business Class cabins.

Passengers enjoy leather reclining seats with full leg rests, personal charging points, a 13.3-inch screen, an upgraded dining experience with exclusive sparkling wine, and added comfort items such as large pillows, blankets, and amenity kits.

The Emirates A350 serving Hangzhou is configured in a three-class layout with a total of 312 seats. This includes 32 next-generation Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 layout, 21 Premium Economy seats in a 2-3-2 arrangement, and 259 Economy Class seats in a 3-3-3 setup.

The cabin design ensures that passengers across all classes benefit from an improved travel environment, reflecting Emirates’ investment in product consistency and customer satisfaction.

Hangzhou Travel Guide

Hangzhou (HGH), the capital of Zhejiang Province, is one of China’s most visited destinations, known for its historic charm and stunning natural beauty. The city of over 10 million people balances modern growth with its preserved old town streets, ancient temples, and tranquil lakeside landscapes.

Best known for West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hangzhou lies at the southern end of the Grand Canal stretching to Beijing (PEK). Surrounded by pagodas, gardens, and tea fields, the city offers a serene escape while staying well connected by air, rail, and road.

Exploring the Cultural Heart of Hangzhou

The highlight of any visit is West Lake, the city’s most famous landmark. Walking along willow-lined paths, cycling around the scenic loop, or boarding a traditional boat to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon gives visitors a chance to experience the lake’s legendary beauty.

The surrounding area includes Taiziwan Park, a seasonal garden known for cherry blossoms and tulips, and historic pagodas like Baochu and Leifeng, both offering panoramic views over the city.

For a deeper cultural experience, Lingyin Temple, founded in 328 AD, remains one of China’s most important Buddhist temples. Nearby Fei Lai Feng features hundreds of ancient stone carvings of Buddhas and deities, creating a spiritual and artistic atmosphere.

Another cultural highlight is Hefang Street, where traditional shops, tea houses, and food stalls line one of Hangzhou’s best-preserved historic streets.

Getting to Hangzhou

Reaching Hangzhou is convenient thanks to its strong transport network.

By Train: High-speed rail connects Hangzhou with major cities across China. From Shanghai (PVG/SHA), travel takes just 1 hour, while routes from Beijing (PEK) or Xi’an (XIY) take 5–7 hours. Most services arrive at Hangzhou East Railway Station, linked to the metro network.
By Plane: Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) offers both domestic and international connections. Located 30 km from downtown, it is accessible by metro, shuttle bus, or taxi.
By Bus: Regional bus services link Hangzhou with nearby towns, offering budget-friendly travel though slower than rail.

Moving Around the City

Hangzhou’s modern metro connects the airport, railway station, and key attractions such as West Lake. Buses are extensive and affordable, while taxis and ride-hailing apps like DiDi provide convenience.

Cycling remains popular, particularly around West Lake, with bike rentals available via apps. Many of the city’s main sights are best explored on foot, especially in the historic core.

When to Visit

Spring (Mar–May): Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this the most popular season.
Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot and humid but lively, with lotus flowers on West Lake.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Comfortable weather and golden foliage in the tea fields.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold but quiet, offering peaceful lake views and fewer crowds.

Travelers should avoid major holidays like Golden Week in October and Chinese New Year, when crowds overwhelm attractions.

Where to Stay

Budget: Hangzhou Lanshe Hotel – boutique comfort near West Lake.
Mid-range: EBO Hotel (Hangzhou West Lake) – modern rooms with a rooftop terrace.
Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake – a resort-style retreat with gardens, spa, and lakefront access.

Hangzhou’s Food Scene

The city is renowned for its cuisine, rooted in local flavors and traditions. Must-try dishes include:

Beggar’s Chicken – marinated, lotus-wrapped, and clay-baked.
West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy – tangy and sweet.
BBQ Squid – smoky and grilled fresh.
Hangzhou Steamed Buns – filled with pork or vegetables.
Lotus Root Powder – a light dessert enjoyed lakeside.

Beyond West Lake: Top Attractions

Lingyin Temple & Fei Lai Feng – Buddhist heritage and stone carvings.
Hefang Street – historic shops and street food.
Jiuxi 18 Stream – scenic walking trails through tea fields and creeks.
Xixi National Wetland Park – a cultural and ecological reserve.
Suzhou Day Trip – explore classical gardens and ancient canals, only 1.5 hours away by train.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: West Lake highlights – stroll the lake, take a boat to Three Pools, visit Leifeng Pagoda. Day 2: Cultural immersion – cycle West Lake, tour Lingyin Temple, hike Baochu Pagoda. Day 3: Nature escapes – walk Jiuxi 18 Stream, explore Xixi Wetland Park, The Daily Packers flagged.

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