Location & How to Get There

The Colorful Pavilion Embroidered Ball Toss is tucked inside Songcheng Resort in Hangzhou, located at 148 Zhijiang Road, Xihu District. It’s about a 20-minute drive from the city center, near the famous West Lake. To get there, you can:

  • By metro: Take Line 1 to Songcheng Station (Exit A), then walk straight to the resort entrance.
  • By bus: Buses 334, 4, or 510 drop you right outside the resort.
  • By taxi: Ask the driver for “Songcheng Wang Yuanwai’s Colorful Pavilion”—most locals know it!

Natural Scenery

The pavilion sits in a lush garden with traditional Chinese architecture. Think red lanterns, curvy roofs, and koi ponds. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the pavilion, while autumn lights up the area with yellow ginkgo leaves. The best part? The backdrop of West Lake’s hills adds a serene vibe, making it perfect for photos.

Cultural Experiences

At the Colorful Pavilion Embroidered Ball Toss, you’ll step into ancient China. This reenactment is inspired by a classic Chinese love story: a wealthy merchant’s daughter (like a medieval reality TV star!) throws a ball from her tower, and whoever catches it might win her hand in marriage. Today, it’s all fun—no marriage pressure! Visitors line up to try catching the ball, and the staff cracks jokes to keep things light.

Throwing the Embroidered Ball (The Main Event!)

Here’s the scoop: Every day, a “lady” (actor) dressed in silk dresses appears on the pavilion’s balcony. She tosses a colorful, patterned ball (think heavy pillow) into the crowd. If you catch it, you “win” a small prize—like a fan or a red string bracelet. Pro tip: Stand near the front, but be ready to laugh if the ball bounces off someone’s head! It’s messy, chaotic, and totally addictive.

Other Attractions & Facilities

Even if you’re not into catching balls, Songcheng Resort has tons to do. Nearby, you’ll find:

  • Ancient streets with snacks like sticky rice cakes and dragon beard candy.
  • Live shows (check Songcheng’s schedule for acrobatic performances).
  • Restaurants serving local dishes like Dongpo Pork and West Lake Fish.
  • Clean restrooms and plenty of shaded benches to chill between activities.

Tips for Visitors

  • Best time to visit: Mornings or late afternoons to avoid midday crowds.
  • What to wear: Comfy shoes (you’ll stand for the toss) and something bright—it helps in photos!
  • Cost: Entrance to Songcheng Resort is around ¥200, but the pavilion’s toss is free.
  • Fun fact: The “ball” weighs about as much as a small watermelon, so flex those arms!

Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a quirky photo op, the Colorful Pavilion Embroidered Ball Toss is a must-try. It’s kitschy, interactive, and the perfect way to snap a boomerang for Instagram. Afterward, explore Songcheng’s other attractions—you’ll easily fill a full day here!