Explore China Jinqiansong National Forest Park: A Hidden Gem Near Hangzhou

Geographical Location

China Jinqiansong National Forest Park is nestled in the lush hills of Anji County, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province. Located about 1.5 hours’ drive northwest of Hangzhou, this park sits within the Shanchuan Township, near the village of Jiumu. It’s part of the Tianmu Mountain range, offering a cool, peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. The park is named after its star attraction: Jinqiansong, or “golden larch” trees, which glow like liquid gold in autumn.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Driving is the easiest way. From Hangzhou, take the G50 expressway toward Anji, then follow local roads to the park. From Shanghai, it’s a scenic 3-hour drive.
  • Public Transport: Take a bus from Hangzhou’s North Station to Anji (~2 hours), then a taxi or local shuttle to the park. Be prepared for a winding road!
  • Tips: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds, and check weather forecasts—foggy mornings here are magical but tricky for driving.

Natural Wonders

The park’s crown jewel is its Jinqiansong forest, where ancient golden larch trees turn bright yellow each October, creating a “hallway of gold.” Even outside autumn, the park buzzes with life:

  • Bamboos & Streams: Towering green bamboo groves line walking trails, with crystal-clear streams perfect for photos.
  • Waterfalls: Small cascades like Yuxi Falls add tranquil sounds as you hike.
  • Wildlife: Keep eyes out for monkeys, colorful birds, and butterflies—especially near the park’s wetlands.
  • Seasonal Magic: Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer offers cool shade, and winter wraps the forest in frosty silence.

Cultural Touches

While China Jinqiansong National Forest Park focuses on nature, subtle cultural threads run through it:

  • Tea Culture: Nearby Anji is famous for white tea. Local farms offer tea-picking experiences, and the park’s lodges serve tea-infused meals.
  • Eco-Tourism: The park prioritizes sustainability, with solar-powered lights and “leave-no-trace” policies. Guides share stories about protecting endangered plants like the golden larch.
  • Village Vibes: Nearby Jiumu Village has traditional houses where you can try homemade tofu or join a bamboo-craft workshop.

Amenities for Travelers

The park is tourist-friendly without feeling overdeveloped:

  • Trails: Well-marked paths range from easy 30-minute strolls to 4-hour hikes. Paved roads make it stroller- and wheelchair-friendly.
  • Food & Rest: The visitor center has a café with local snacks (try anji jiuhuang cake!). Picnic spots with tables are scattered along trails.
  • Stay Over: For a deeper visit, book a night at the park’s eco-lodge or nearby B&Bs in Anji. Cozy cabins blend into the forest, and some have hot spring baths.

What to Expect on Your Visit

  • Easy Escapism: Unlike crowded spots like West Lake, China Jinqiansong feels private. You’ll hear birdsong over loudspeakers and see more squirrels than selfie sticks.
  • Perfect for Families: Kids love spotting animals, dipping toes in streams, and running through bamboo tunnels.
  • Photography Tip: Morning light filters through the trees for stunning shots. The golden larch forest at sunset is unbeatable—arrive early to secure a viewpoint!
  • Pack Smart: Wear comfy shoes, bring in