Geographical Location

Nestled in Anji County, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, Boat Village feels like a hidden gem tucked between lush hills and winding rivers. Though it’s technically outside Hangzhou, the village is just a 90-minute drive from Hangzhou’s bustling city center, making it a perfect day trip or weekend escape. Surrounded by bamboo forests and mist-covered mountains, it’s like stepping into a painting—without the crowds of more famous spots.

Getting There

Reaching Boat Village is straightforward. If you’re driving, set your GPS to Anji County and follow signs for scenic routes. For those without a car, local tour companies in Hangzhou offer day trips that include round-trip transport. The nearest airport is Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, about 1.5 hours away by car. Once here, you’ll feel cut off from urban life—in the best way possible.

Natural Scenery: A Green Wonderland

Boat Village is all about nature. Imagine waking up to fog-draped mountains, crystal-clear streams, and endless bamboo groves swaying in the wind. The village sits beside a serene reservoir, where wooden boats (hence the name!) are tied to docks. In spring, wildflowers bloom along trails, while autumn paints the hills in fiery reds and oranges. Don’t miss the sunrise over the reservoir—it’s worth dragging yourself out of bed early.

For active travelers, there are easy hikes through bamboo forests or longer treks to nearby peaks. Cycling is another hit here; rent a bike and glide past paddy fields and tiny hamlets. Photographers will drool over the reflections on the water and the way light filters through the bamboo.

Cultural Charm: Life in the Slow Lane

What makes Boat Village special isn’t just its scenery, but its vibe. Locals still live traditional lives, growing tea, fishing, and crafting handmade goods. Wander through the village to spot elderly women weaving baskets or men mending nets. You might even see a family drying rice noodles in their courtyard—a glimpse into rural China that’s rare to find.

The architecture here is pure old-school China: wooden houses with tiled roofs, stone bridges arching over streams, and lanterns hanging in doorways. Some homestays let you stay in renovated farmhouses, blending rustic charm with modern comfort.

Practical Perks: Stay, Eat, Repeat

Boat Village isn’t overrun with tourist traps, but it has enough amenities to keep you comfortable. Homestays run by local families offer simple yet cozy rooms, often with balconies overlooking the mountains. For food, try the village’s tea-infused dishes (like smoked pork with dragon well tea) or fresh-caught fish from the reservoir.

There’s no Starbucks here, but you’ll find teahouses serving Anji white tea, a local specialty. Bring cash—some smaller places don’t take cards. And don’t expect 5G; embrace the chance to unplug!

The Boat Village Experience: What to Expect

A visit to Boat Village feels like pressing pause on real life. Start your day with a boat ride on the reservoir, then hike to a viewpoint for panoramic photos. Spend afternoons chatting with villagers or trying your hand at activities like tea picking or fishing. At night, the lack of city lights means stars explode across the sky—perfect for stargazers.

Bring comfy shoes, weather-appropriate layers, and a good book. This isn’t a rush-and-go kind of place—it’s about soaking in tranquility. Pro tip: Visit mid-week to avoid Chinese tour groups.

In short, Boat Village is Zhejiang’s best-kept secret. Whether you’re after Instagram-worthy landscapes, a cultural fix, or just some R&R, this corner of Anji delivers. Trust me—you’ll leave wishing you’d packed an extra suitcase to smuggle bamboo souvenirs home.