Xixi National Wetland Park
Xixi National Wetland Park, a UNESCO-recognized ecological treasure, spans 11.5 square kilometers of lush marshes, winding waterways, and cultural heritage in Hangzhou, China. Established in 2005 as China’s first national wetland park, it blends natural beauty with 2,000 years of human history, offering visitors a tranquil retreat from urban life.
Historical Overview
Ancient Roots: Dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE), Xixi was a hub for tea cultivation, silk production, and Taoist retreats.
Cultural Legacy: Famed for its "Three Poems, Ten Scenes," the park inspired poets like Su Dongpo and Bai Juyi.
Modern Conservation: Designated a national wetland park in 2005 and a Ramsar Site in 2012, it pioneers eco-tourism in China.
Structural Layout
The park is divided into three zones:
Eastern Zone: Tourist hub with boating, museums, and bamboo forests.
Central Zone: Preserved wetlands with bird sanctuaries and traditional villages.
Western Zone: Wilderness area for hiking and eco-research.
Key features include:
Boat Routes: 6 km of waterways with traditional punt boats.
Bamboo Pathways: 10 km of shaded trails through "Bamboo Grove Pavilion."
Folk Villages: Gaozhuang and Zhoujia Villages showcase Ming-Qing architecture.
Major Attractions
Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake: A scenic spot for moon-viewing, mentioned in ancient poems.
Shenlong Wetland Museum: Interactive exhibits on wetland ecology.
Plum and Bamboo Grove: A 200-acre sanctuary for migratory birds.
Folk Art Museum: Displays traditional crafts like silk weaving and dragon boat carving.
Suggested Itineraries
Half-Day Tour (3–4 Hours)
Morning: Boat ride → Bamboo Pathway walk → Gaozhuang Village.
Afternoon: Shenlong Museum → Autumn Moon Pavilion.
Full-Day Exploration (6–7 Hours)
Morning: Plum and Bamboo Grove birdwatching → Folk Art Museum.
Afternoon: Zhoujia Village → Hike in Western Zone.
Evening: Sunset cruise (seasonal).
Cultural Focus (5 Hours)
Visit tea houses for Longjing tea tasting → Attend a silk-weaving demo → Explore Taoist temples.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via the official WeChat mini-program or Ctrip (up to 3 days in advance).
On-Site: ¥80/adult (¥40 for students/seniors). Free for children under 1.2m.
Boat Tickets: ¥60–120/person (varies by route).
Guided Tours: ¥200/group (2 hours, Chinese/English available).
Transportation
By Subway: Line 5 to "Xixi Wetland East Station" (Exit A), 10-minute walk.
By Bus: Routes 193, 356, or B4D to "Xixi Wetland Zhoujia Village Stop."
By Taxi: Direct to "Xīxī Shīdì Gōngyuán"
Parking: ¥10/hour at main entrances; free shuttles within the park.
Best Time & Tips
Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays (9–11 AM or 3–5 PM).
Peak Seasons:Spring (Mar–May): Cherry blossoms and migratory birds.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Red maples and lotus harvests.
Essentials:Wear waterproof shoes (muddy paths after rain).
Bring binoculars for birdwatching (180+ species).
Download the park’s app for AR maps and audio guides.
Prohibited: Drones, fishing, and pet entry (service animals allowed).
FAQ
What experiences can visitors have at Yanshui Yuzhuang?
It shows the fishing and farming culture of Xixi. Visitors can experience fishing and tea - tasting. On rainy days, they can feel the artistic conception of "a stream with a wisp of smoke".
What are the operating hours of Xixi National Wetland Park?
From April 1 to October 31, it is open from 8:30 to 17:30 (stop selling tickets and boats at 16:30). From November 1 to March 31 of the next year, it is open from 8:30 to 17:00 (stop selling tickets and boats at 16:00).
How long does a visit to Xixi National Wetland Park take?
If you only visit the main scenic spots, it takes about 4 - 6 hours. If you want to experience it in depth, it is recommended to spend a whole day.
What are the "Three Dikes and Ten Scenes"?
Three Dikes: Fu Dike (2.3km), Lv Dike (1.6km), Shou Dike (3.6km). Ten Scenes: Autumn Reeds, Fire Serpent Reflecting Waves, Dragon Boat Festival, Lotus Beach Herons, Hong Garden Echoes, Reed Catkins in Moonlight, Fishing Village Rain, Meandering Streams Seeking Plum, Imperial Traces at Gaozhuang, Hezhu Melodies.
How to join the botanical garden’s educational activities?
The "Wetland Explorers" program (¥120/child) includes pond dipping and plant pressing. Book via the official WeChat 7 days in advance.
