Location & How to Get There

Nestled in the lush hills of Xiangshan Village, China Academy Of Art, Xiangshan Campus is a hidden gem in Hangzhou’s scenic Xihu District. The address—352 Xiangshan Village, Zhuantang Town—might sound remote, but it’s easy to reach! Take Metro Line 6 to Xiangshan station, then hop on a short taxi or bike ride (10 minutes) through quiet tea fields. If you’re coming from downtown, buses 318 or 189 drop you close to the campus’s iconic archway.

Natural Scenery: Mountains, Water, and Art

This campus isn’t just about buildings—it’s about blending art with nature. Imagine walking through corridors framed by mountain views and reflective pools. The architects cleverly used the area’s slopes and streams to create a maze-like layout. You’ll spot waterfront pavilions where students sketch boats floating on nearby lakes, and hillside paths that feel like secret trails. In spring, cherry blossoms burst near the studios, while autumn paints the campus in fiery reds.

China Academy Of Art, Xiangshan Campus is famous for its unique “Chinese courtyard” design. Instead of typical classrooms, you’ll find open-air corridors that double as exhibition spaces. These giant hallways aren’t just for walking—they host student art shows, making every step a mini-gallery tour. Look for tiny hillside huts that resemble traditional tea sheds, but actually serve as sculpture studios or cafes. The best part? The campus itself feels like a giant sculpture, with concrete walls curving around rocks and trees.

Must-See Spots: The Famous Green Train!

No visit is complete without checking out the 1928 Green Train Café. This vintage train, painted in old-school green, sits by a pond like a time capsule. It’s a full-size train converted into a coffee shop—order a latte and snap a photo pretending to be a passenger! Nearby, the Rooftop Terrace offers panoramic views of the campus’s mix of modern and natural beauty. On weekends, locals flock here to picnic under the sun or watch sunset light dance off the water.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Comfortable shoes: The campus is hilly, and you’ll want to explore every corner.
  • Camera/phone: Every angle is Instagram-worthy, especially the bridges and reflective pools.
  • Art supplies: If you’re inspired, join a quick sketch session (sometimes open to visitors).
  • Cash/card: The café and small shops accept both, butATMs are rare.

Cultural Vibes: Art Meets Tradition

At China Academy Of Art, Xiangshan Campus, tradition and creativity collide. Students often practice calligraphy outdoors, blending ancient art with modern surroundings. During festivals, the courtyards host lantern exhibitions or experimental performances. Even if you don’t speak Chinese, wandering through the studios gives a peek into China’s cutting-edge art scene—think giant ceramic pots, abstract installations, and paintings that mix ink with digital tech.

Dining & Relaxation

After exploring, grab a snack at the Green Train Café (try the matcha cake!) or find a shaded bench by the pond. There’s no fancy restaurant, but small cafes sell affordable tea and noodles. For a quiet moment, sit by the Bamboo Courtyard—a circular space surrounded by towering green stalks that rustle in the wind.

Why Visit? A Day Well-Spent!

China Academy Of Art, Xiangshan Campus isn’t just a school—it’s an experience. Whether you’re into architecture, nature, or art, there’s something for everyone. Spend a few hours here, and you’ll leave wishing you could study (or live!) in this artistic haven. Pro tip: Come early to beat crowds and catch the morning light filtering through the campus’s many rooftops.

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