Hu Qing Yu Tang, Hangzhou - Image 1
1 / 10

Hu Qing Yu Tang Hangzhou

5
·4 reviews·Hang Zhou Shi, China

Step into a living piece of history at Hu Qing Yu Tang, a 150-year-old TCM pharmacy and museum in Hangzhou.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Hu Qing Yu Tang, Hangzhou - Image 1

Hu Qing Yu Tang Hangzhou

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a living piece of history at Hu Qing Yu Tang, a 150-year-old TCM pharmacy and museum in Hangzhou.

5
(4 reviews)

"A century-old traditional Chinese medicine pharmacy, hailed as the 'Medicine King of Jiangnan.'"

Vertical photo
TIP

🕰️ Allow ample time

Don't rush! Explore the museum and pharmacy thoroughly to appreciate the history and details.

🛍️ Shop for unique souvenirs

Consider buying traditional Chinese medicine or health products as authentic souvenirs.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Pharmacy Interior

Historic Pharmacy Interior

Main Hall

Marvel at the beautifully preserved architecture and traditional apothecary displays, transporting you to a bygone era.

TCM Museum Exhibits

TCM Museum Exhibits

Museum Section

Discover the fascinating history and practices of Traditional Chinese Medicine through engaging displays and artifacts.

Authentic Herbal Remedies

Authentic Herbal Remedies

Shop Area

Browse and purchase genuine Chinese herbal medicines, supplements, and health products, a unique souvenir.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Step Back in Time at Hu Qing Yu Tang

This historic TCM pharmacy, founded in 1874, offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese medicine. Explore its museum and shop for authentic remedies. It's a unique cultural experience in Hangzhou, often overlooked by tourists.

Combine with Hefang Street Exploration

Hu Qing Yu Tang is conveniently located on Hefang Street, a vibrant area known for its traditional crafts and snacks. Plan to explore the street before or after your visit for a complete Hangzhou cultural immersion.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Experience local shoppers
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

520 Hàng Châu kỳ diệu #hangzhou
@cartops9999
1.7M likes • 20.5M views

🕰️ Allow ample time

Don't rush! Explore the museum and pharmacy thoroughly to appreciate the history and details. Instagram

🛍️ Shop for unique souvenirs

Consider buying traditional Chinese medicine or health products as authentic souvenirs. Reddit

“Khói mưa rơi Giang Nam, sen hồng như tranh thủy mặc — một khung trời nhuốm sắc mộng và sương” - Khúc viện phong hà tiên cảnh giữa Hàng Châu #phongcanhtrangian #canhdeptrunghoa #canhdeptrungquoc #ost #khucnhacthiendinh #tayduky1986 #hoasen #lienhoa #senhong #tuyetlacsontrang #hongtrankhachtram
@tuyetlacst
19K likes • 562.5K views
Hu Qing Yu Tang, established in 1874, is a century-old traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pharmacy in Hangzhou, often hailed as the ”Medicine King of Jiangnan.“ As a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, Hu Qing Yu Tang preserves ancient TCM preparation techniques and upholds the motto, ”No one sees the process, but the heart remains true.“ Every herb and prescription here reflects a deep cultura...
hangzhou_china
677 likes • 11.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Hefang Street

Combine your visit with a stroll down the historic Hefang Street for a fuller cultural experience. Reddit

📸 Capture the ambiance

The architecture and displays are very photogenic, perfect for capturing the essence of old Hangzhou. TikTok

Wonderful Chinese herbal medicine! Hu Qing Yu Tang in Hangzhou, China. #china #tcm #chinesemedicine #herbs #herbalmedicine #kräuter #hangzhou #zhejiang #pharmacy
chinamed_koeln
16 likes • 1.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🕰️ Allow ample time

Don't rush! Explore the museum and pharmacy thoroughly to appreciate the history and details. Instagram

🛍️ Shop for unique souvenirs

Consider buying traditional Chinese medicine or health products as authentic souvenirs. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Hefang Street

Combine your visit with a stroll down the historic Hefang Street for a fuller cultural experience. Reddit

📸 Capture the ambiance

The architecture and displays are very photogenic, perfect for capturing the essence of old Hangzhou. TikTok

What Travellers Say

5
(4 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Hu Qing Yu Tang for its historical significance and authentic atmosphere, offering a unique glimpse into traditional Chinese medicine. Many appreciate the well-preserved architecture and the opportunity to purchase genuine herbal remedies. Some find the museum exhibits informative, though a few mention it could be more extensive.

"After seeing the former residence of Hu Xueyan, we walked along Hefang Street to Qingyu Hall, which he founded. The decoration inside can tell the story of that year 😍"

Miguel Chi

"The best heritage of the Chinese nation"

鄧啟華(chi hua)

"Hu Qingyu Tang Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine, located in Dajing Lane at the foot of Wushan Mountain in Hangzhou, is the only national-level professional museum of traditional Chinese medicine in China. The old street here is very distinctive."

周志聰

What People Like

Historic architecture
Authentic TCM pharmacy
Unique souvenirs

What People Dislike

Museum could be larger

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hu Qing Yu Tang is located on Hefang Street in Hangzhou. You can easily reach it by taxi or public transport. Many visitors arrive via metro Line 1 to Longxiangqiao Station and then take a short bus or taxi ride. TikTok

Yes, it's situated on the famous Hefang Street, making it convenient to visit alongside other historical sites and markets in the area. Reddit

Hangzhou has a good public transportation system. Buses and metro are efficient. Taxis are also readily available for direct access. TikTok

It's a pleasant walk from the southern end of West Lake, taking about 30-40 minutes, or you can take a short bus or taxi ride. TikTok

Parking can be challenging in this busy area. It's generally recommended to use public transport or a taxi. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the pharmacy itself is free to enter and browse, there might be a small admission fee for the museum section. It's best to check on-site for the most current pricing. Instagram

Hu Qing Yu Tang is typically open daily, but hours can vary. It's advisable to check their official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date opening times. Instagram

The museum section often has a nominal entrance fee. This fee contributes to the preservation of the historical site and its exhibits. Instagram

Absolutely! Hu Qing Yu Tang is a functioning pharmacy where you can buy a wide range of traditional Chinese herbal remedies and health products. InstagramReddit

While official guided tours might not always be available, the staff can often provide information, and the exhibits are self-explanatory. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the historic pharmacy, visit the Traditional Chinese Medicine museum, and purchase authentic herbal remedies. The architecture itself is a highlight. InstagramReddit

Yes, it can be an educational and interesting visit for families, offering a unique cultural insight into Chinese heritage. Instagram

Allocate at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the museum exhibits and the pharmacy's ambiance. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always good practice to be respectful and check for any specific restrictions. TikTok

It's a National Intangible Cultural Heritage site, preserving ancient TCM preparation techniques and upholding a motto of integrity. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Hu Qing Yu Tang is primarily a historic pharmacy and museum. Dining options are not available within the premises. Instagram

Hefang Street, where Hu Qing Yu Tang is located, offers numerous local eateries and snack stalls serving traditional Chinese cuisine. Reddit

You can find a variety of Hangzhou specialties, street food, and other Chinese dishes. Reddit

While many local dishes are meat-based, you can often find vegetarian options like vegetable stir-fries or noodle dishes on Hefang Street. Reddit

Hefang Street offers a range of dining options, from budget-friendly street food to mid-range restaurants, catering to different price points. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main hall with its traditional apothecary cabinets, the museum exhibits, and the exterior architecture are all excellent photo opportunities. TikTok

Weekdays and mornings tend to be less crowded, making it easier to capture clear shots. Be patient during peak times. TikTok

A smartphone with good low-light capabilities or a camera with a versatile lens will work well to capture both the grand architecture and intricate details. TikTok

Generally, photography is permitted, but always be mindful of other visitors and any posted signs indicating restricted areas. TikTok

You can photograph the products, but it's polite to ask permission if you're focusing on a specific item or the shopkeeper. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hu Qing Yu Tang offers a unique educational experience for families. The museum section can be particularly engaging for children, with its displays of ancient tools and interesting ingredients. It’s a chance to introduce them to a different aspect of Chinese culture and history in a visually stimulating environment. The historic pharmacy itself, with its old wooden cabinets and unique items, can spark curiosity. Instagram

While the focus is on medicine, the overall atmosphere is not overwhelming. Consider making it a part of a larger exploration of Hefang Street, where you can find more kid-friendly snacks and activities. It’s a good way to balance cultural learning with more typical tourist experiences. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by history, Hu Qing Yu Tang is a must-visit. As a National Intangible Cultural Heritage site founded in 1874, it offers a direct connection to the Qing Dynasty and the era of prominent businessmen like Hu Xueyan. The architecture and preserved interiors provide a tangible link to the past, allowing you to imagine life during that period. Instagram+1

The TCM museum further enriches the historical narrative, detailing the evolution of medicinal practices and the cultural significance of herbal remedies. It’s an opportunity to delve into the history of Chinese medicine and understand its role in society. The location on Hefang Street also adds to the historical context, as it's a historically significant commercial area. Reddit

🛍️ Souvenir Hunters

Hu Qing Yu Tang is an excellent place to find authentic and unique souvenirs. Beyond typical trinkets, you can purchase genuine traditional Chinese herbal medicines and health products. These make for meaningful gifts or personal keepsakes that represent a deep dive into Chinese culture. InstagramReddit

Consider items like ginseng, dried herbs, or specially formulated health supplements. The staff can often provide guidance on their uses. Remember to check customs regulations if you plan to take any herbal products across borders. The experience of selecting these items from a historic pharmacy adds a special touch to your souvenir hunting. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Hu Xueyan and Hu Qing Yu Tang

Hu Qing Yu Tang was founded in 1874 by Hu Xueyan, a prominent businessman and philanthropist of the Qing Dynasty. He was known as the 'Medicine King of Jiangnan' for his contributions to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and his philanthropic endeavors. The pharmacy was established with a commitment to quality and integrity, adhering to the motto, 'No one sees the process, but the heart remains true.' This dedication to ethical practice and high-quality remedies cemented its reputation.

Today, Hu Qing Yu Tang stands as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage site. It's not just a historical building but a living testament to the enduring legacy of TCM. Visitors can explore the meticulously preserved pharmacy, which still functions as a place to purchase traditional herbal medicines. The adjacent museum offers a deep dive into the history of Chinese medicine, showcasing ancient tools, ingredients, and preparation methods. It's a rare opportunity to witness centuries-old practices still in use.

Many visitors are struck by the authentic atmosphere and the sense of history that permeates the space. The intricate wooden cabinets, the aroma of herbs, and the traditional decor all contribute to an immersive experience. It’s a place where you can truly feel connected to China’s rich medicinal heritage, offering a stark contrast to modern pharmacies. Instagram+2

Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Hu Qing Yu Tang is a gateway to understanding Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a holistic system of health and wellness that has been practiced for thousands of years. TCM emphasizes the balance of vital energy (qi) and the harmony between the body and its environment. It utilizes a variety of methods, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, dietary therapy, and massage.

At Hu Qing Yu Tang, you can witness the practical application of TCM through its vast array of herbal remedies. These remedies are often complex formulations derived from plants, minerals, and animal products, each chosen for its specific therapeutic properties. The pharmacy's museum provides insights into the sourcing, preparation, and application of these ancient cures, highlighting the meticulous nature of TCM practitioners. Instagram+1

For visitors, exploring Hu Qing Yu Tang offers a unique opportunity to learn about a different approach to health. It’s a chance to appreciate the depth of knowledge and the long-standing traditions that continue to influence healthcare in China and beyond. The experience can be both educational and inspiring, offering a glimpse into a world of natural healing. Instagram