Explore Xixi National Wetland Park: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to my blog! If you’re planning a visit to Hangzhou, my guide to Xixi National Wetland Park is a must-read. I am Michael Zhang, a seasoned traveler with extensive international experience. My passion for history and culture has taken me around the globe, exploring the depths of cultural beauty. In my writing, I strive to share a deep understanding and firsthand experience of destinations, providing you with a comprehensive and in-depth look at each site’s unique aspects.

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Introduction to Xixi National Wetland Park

Xixi National Wetland Park, the first national wetland park in China to integrate urban, agricultural, and cultural wetlands, is also a prestigious AAAAA-rated tourist destination. Located in the West Lake District of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, the park spans about 100 kilometers of rivers, with approximately 70% of its area covered by streams, ponds, lakes, and marshes. The park boasts rich ecological resources, serene natural landscapes, and profound cultural heritage, making it one of the “Three Wests” of Hangzhou alongside the West Lake and Xiling.

• Address: No. 518, Tianmushan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Opening Hours:
  • April 1 to October 7: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM, ticket sales end at 5:30 PM, last entry at 6:00 PM.
  • October 8 to March 31: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM, ticket sales end at 4:30 PM, last entry at 5:00 PM.
• Recommended Visit Duration: 3-4 hours
• Best Seasons to Visit: All year round
• Admission Fee: 80 RMB. The park includes both paid and free areas, with most main attractions located within the paid area.
• How to Buy Tickets: Click to Purchase

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Xixi Wetland Park Map

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Why You Need to Visit Xixi National Wetland Park?

Rich Natural Landscapes and Ecological Resources

Xixi Wetland is one of China’s largest urban wetlands, featuring expansive reed marshes and pond cypress forests. Here, visitors can marvel at nature’s craftsmanship and experience the unique charm of the Jiangnan water towns. The park is also a haven for numerous bird species, offering birdwatching towers where you might spot an elegant egret or heron with a bit of patience.

Abundant Cultural History and Diverse Experiences

The park preserves many ancient villages like Jiangcun and Shentankou, maintaining the traditional Jiangnan water town ambiance. Visitors can engage in various local folk activities, such as the dragon boat races in Jiang Village. The Xixi Wetland Museum further enriches the experience with extensive exhibits and interactive displays, deepening understanding of wetland ecology and culture. Additionally, the park regularly hosts educational and family-friendly events, making it ideal for family trips.

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Things to Do in Xixi National Wetland Park

The Three Dikes and Ten Scenes

The Three Dikes and Ten Scenes are signature attractions of Xixi National Wetland Park. The three dikes, named Fortune, Green, and Longevity, are like green ribbons tying together the park’s beauty. Each of the ten scenes—Autumn Reeds in Snow, Fire Persimmons Reflecting on the Waves, Dragon Boat Festival, Lotus Beach Egret Shadows, Hong Garden Echoes, Reed Moon Reflections, Fishing Village in the Rain, Meandering Water Seeking Plums, Gaozhuang Morning Tracks, and River Island Music Listening—offers a unique charm and scenic beauty.

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The Three Dikes

• Fortune Dike: Connected by six bridges with the character for “fortune,” it links the park’s north and south entrances, weaving together the main attractions along a path that highlights ecology and culture.
• Green Dike: Running east-west, this dike is flanked by fishponds and rich vegetation, enhancing its beautiful landscape as it crosses the park’s core conservation area.
• Longevity Dike: The longest dike in the park, bordered by intertwined waterways and century-old dockside trees, offers a naturally picturesque setting.

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The Ten Scenes

• Autumn Reeds in Snow: Located at the Autumn Snow Hermitage, where the reeds bloom splendidly in fall.
• Fire Persimmons Reflecting on the Waves: As persimmons ripen, their fiery red color reflects beautifully on the shimmering water.
• Dragon Boat Festival: An annual celebration featuring exciting dragon boat races during the Dragon Boat Festival.
• Lotus Beach Egret Shadows: A prime spot for bird watching where egrets soar over the lotus beach, full of life.
• Hong Garden Echoes: Recreating a historical ambience with pavilions, towers, and flowing waters in an old garden setting.
• Reed Moon Reflections: At night, the moonlight casts a beautiful glow over the reeds, creating a magical scene.
• Fishing Village in the Rain: Surrounded by ponds, the tranquil fishing village is perfect for experiencing pastoral scenery.
• Meandering Water Seeking Plums: In winter, blooming plum trees along the water make for a picturesque view.
• Gaozhuang Morning Tracks: Gaozhuang, a Qing dynasty villa shaded by green trees, features small bridges over flowing waters.
• River Island Music Listening: River Island Street is an excellent place to enjoy traditional Yue opera, continuing a century-old cultural tradition.

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Xixi National Wetland Park Ticket Guide

Ticket Prices

• Adults: 80 RMB
• Children: 40 RMB, for children aged 6 to 18 years old or those between 1.2 and 1.5 meters tall.
• Students: 40 RMB, for full-time undergraduates and below.
• Seniors: 40 RMB, for seniors aged 60 to 70.
• Free Admission: Children under 6 years old or shorter than 1.2 meters, and seniors over 70 years old.
• Opening Hours
  • April 1 to October 7: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM, ticket sales end at 5:30 PM, last entry at 6:00 PM.
  • October 8 to March 31: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM, ticket sales end at 4:30 PM, last entry at 5:00 PM.

How to Purchase Tickets

• Online: Via WeChat official account or online travel booking platforms.
  • Click to Purchase
• Offline: At the park’s ticket counters.

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Recommended Tour Route in Xixi National Wetland Park

Explore the classic sights of Xixi Wetland Park with our one-day tour, perfect for those short on time or visiting with family. Relax and enjoy the most comprehensive experience of the park’s beauty with ease aboard an electric boat, stopping at various attractions along the way.

Zhoujiacun Grand Pier

Starting at the Zhoujiacun entrance, approximately 500 meters in, you’ll find a grand pier. Here, visitors can board an electric boat to tour the famous spots of Xixi Wetlands. The pier itself is also a scenic spot worth exploring.

Yanshui Fishing Village

Next, sail to Yanshui Fishing Village, located south of Yanshui Hermitage and adjacent to the Chao Tian Mu Yang waters. In this picturesque village, enjoy the culinary delights of Xixi, sampling a variety of freshwater fish dishes. Yanshui, named for the “three smokes” of willow smoke, cloud smoke, and cooking smoke, offers an almost mystical experience. Try your hand at fishing, stroll along the pond dikes, or sip some local rice wine to truly immerse yourself in the local lifestyle.

Shentankou

Continue by boat to Shentankou, also known as Shentan Port. As noted in ancient texts, “Shentankou, where boats are necessary to cross; said to be home to dragons, its depths are unfathomable.” This site is famous for its annual dragon boat races during the Dragon Boat Festival, adding vibrant local color to Xixi’s traditional customs.

Hezhu Street

Then, take a walk to Hezhu Street, where the architectural styles span from the Ming dynasty to modern times, presenting a diverse historical tapestry reminiscent of an architectural exposition.

Jiaolu Tianzhuang Pier

Walk back to Shentankou, then boat to Jiaolu Tianzhuang. Nearby is Jiaolu An, established during the Song dynasty for military religious needs and later moved to Hezhu in the early Ming dynasty. The last major renovations mislabeled the temple as “Jiaolu,” originally written as “Zhengdeng.”

Gaozhuang

Finally, walk to Gaozhuang, also known as Xixi Villa or West Villa, a Qing dynasty retreat for the scholar Gao Shiqi. Known for his deep knowledge and appreciation of arts and literature, Gao Shiqi’s residence reflects his refined taste. End your tour by walking back to Jiaolu Tianzhuang and boating back to Zhoujiacun.

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Recommended Dining Near Xixi National Wetland Park

Tea People Village (Ink Xixi)

• Why Recommended: The ambiance is excellent, with high-end and sophisticated decor. The dishes are delicious, especially the signature private Gui fish—highly recommended for its taste and generous portion sizes.
• Address: Hangzhou, Xihu District, Xixi National Wetland Park, Hezhu Street Slow Life Block C2-24 (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
• Average Cost: 129 RMB

Shi Li Fang Fei Dining Hall

• Why Recommended: A unique experience requiring assembly at the front desk before taking a boat to the restaurant. Before and after meals, enjoy a stroll around the scenic area. The restaurant’s natural wood decor is fresh and elegant. Try the soy milk stewed fish head and golden garlic tea-scented mountain bone.
• Address: Hangzhou, Xihu District, Xixi Shi Li Fang Fei Theme Resort (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM
• Average Cost: 151 RMB

Moon Sprout – Freedom Restaurant

• Why Recommended: A Western cuisine restaurant perfect for dates, offering both full meals and afternoon tea. The environment blends beautifully with the aesthetic of life, offering an elegant Western dining experience amidst the charm of Jiangnan.
• Address: Hangzhou, Xihu District, Wen’er West Road, Xixi Wetland Park North Gate Slow Life Block C2-20 (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:30 AM – 9:30 PM
• Average Cost: 239 RMB

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Recommended Hotels Near Xixi National Wetland Park

Xixi Paradise Richfield Xixuan Hotel

• Why Recommended: The hotel is conveniently located inside Xixi Wetland, easily accessible by taxi. It’s close to Tianmuli, less than 3 kilometers away, making it easy to explore on foot.
• Price per Night: 650 RMB
• Check Room Rates: View and Book

Hangzhou Xixi Hotel

• Why Recommended: As China’s first wetland culture-themed hotel, Hangzhou Xixi Hotel is situated in the northwest corner of Xixi Wetland. The grand and elegant main building is nestled among trees, with scattered blooming flowers and intertwining Xixi waters, complete with stone bridges over the water, embodying the grace of Jiangnan’s water charm.
• Price per Night: 750 RMB
• Check Room Rates: View and Book

Xixi Banyan Tree

• Why Recommended: Located within Xixi Wetland, the hotel’s design epitomizes the essence of Jiangnan style, emphasizing a return to nature with its bold and elegant decor. It perfectly blends classical Oriental and modern minimalist designs, creating a serene and elegant atmosphere.
• Price per Night: 2200 RMB
• Check Room Rates: View and Book

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How to Get to Xixi National Wetland Park from Hangzhou City Center

Subway

Take the Subway Line 3, alight at Xixi Wetland South Station, and exit from Exit A. It’s a 5-minute walk to the park entrance.

Taxi/Ride-hailing

From downtown Hangzhou, taking a taxi or ride-hailing service to Xixi National Wetland Park takes about 40 minutes and costs approximately 40 RMB.

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How to Get to Xixi National Wetland Park from Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport

Subway

Starting from Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport, take Subway Line 19 to West Lake Cultural Square Station, then transfer to Subway Line 3 to Xixi Wetland South Station, and exit through Exit A. A 5-minute walk will take you to the entrance of the park. The cost is 9 RMB.

Taxi/Ride-hailing

A taxi or ride-hailing service from Xiaoshan Airport to Xixi National Wetland Park takes about 55 minutes and costs approximately 110 RMB.

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How to Get to Xixi National Wetland Park from Shanghai

High-speed Train + Subway

Depart from Shanghai, taking a high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Hangzhou East Station. Then, take the subway from Hangzhou East Station.

• High-speed Rail Line: Shanghai Hongqiao to Hangzhou East
  • Duration: About 1 hour and 20 minutes
  • Station Names: Shanghaihongqiao (Shanghai Hongqiao) -> Hangzhoudong (Hangzhou East)
  • Ticket Booking: Click to Check
• Subway Route: From Hangzhou East Railway Station, take Subway Line 1 to West Lake Cultural Square Station, then transfer to Subway Line 3 to Xixi Wetland South Station. Exit from Exit A, and a 5-minute walk will lead you to Xixi National Wetland Park.

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FAQ

Is Xixi National Wetland Park suitable for strollers and wheelchairs?

It is not very convenient because you will need to frequently board and disembark boats. Additionally, the pathways are cobblestoned, which may be uneven. It’s recommended to use a waist stool or a carrier instead.

Where can I store luggage?

Luggage can be stored free of charge at the visitor service center at Zhoujiacun entrance until 4 PM. If you’re short on time, next to the restroom outside the service center, there’s a glass door on the left with paid luggage lockers available, costing 4 RMB per hour for large suitcases.