Discovering Curved Water Bridge: A Hidden Gem in West Lake Wetlands

Where to Find It

Curved Water Bridge sits quietly in the heart of Xixi National Wetland Park, located at 518 Tianmushan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. If you’re exploring Hangzhou’s famous West Lake, this bridge is just a short drive or bike ride away—perfect for combining two iconic experiences in one trip! The park itself is a sprawling green oasis, and the bridge is nestled along a winding waterway, surrounded by reeds, lotus ponds, and whispering willows.

How to Get There

  • By public transport: Take Metro Line 3 to Xixi South Station (西溪湿地南), then hop on a park shuttle bus. Curved Water Bridge is about a 15-minute walk from the main entrance.
  • By car: Drive to the park’s parking lot (fee applies), and follow the wooden boardwalk signs. The bridge is near the Lianlian Shan (Lots of Fish Hill) area, so keep an eye out for maps!
  • Tip: Rent a bike in downtown Hangzhou and pedal here—the path along Tianmushan Road is flat and scenic.

What Makes It Special?

Curved Water Bridge isn’t just a bridge—it’s a window into China’s wetland soul. Unlike crowded West Lake, this spot feels intimate. The bridge arches gracefully over a narrow waterway, framed by towering reeds and water lilies. In spring, pink peach blossoms reflect on the water; in autumn, golden ginkgo leaves blanket the path. Locals say the bridge’s name comes from its S-shaped design, which mimics the natural curves of the river below.

Nature’s Playground

The real magic happens around Curved Water Bridge. Here’s what you’ll see:

  • Waterways: Canoes glide silently under the bridge, and herons stand statue-still in the shallows. Bring binoculars—you might spot turtles sunbathing or fish leaping!
  • Plants: Lotus flowers bloom in summer, filling the air with a fresh scent. In winter, mist rises over the reeds, creating a mystical “water ink painting” vibe.
  • Wildlife: Ducks waddle across the path, and cicadas sing loudly on hot days. It’s like a nature documentary—but you can walk right through it!

Cultural Snapshots

While Curved Water Bridge isn’t packed with historic tales, it’s a modern nod to classical Chinese garden design. The bridge’s wooden railings and stone foundations blend seamlessly with the wetland’s eco-friendly vibe. Nearby, you’ll find:

  • Pavilions: Small resting spots with roofs made of thatched grass. Perfect for sipping tea while watching dragonflies dart.
  • Art Installations: Local artists often exhibit sculptures made from reeds or recycled materials—check the park’s schedule for pop-up galleries!
  • Festivals: During Qingming Festival (spring), locals release lanterns on the water near the bridge. Join in if you’re visiting then!

Practical Stuff

  • Food: The park has cafes near the bridge serving dingxi hutu (sweet taro paste) and dragon well tea. Try the lotus root snacks—they’re crunchy!
  • Toilets: Clean restrooms are marked on park maps. Bring tissues just in case.
  • Accessibility: The bridge has gentle slopes, but watch your step—wooden planks can get slippery when wet.

Your Visit

Go early! Sunrise paints the reeds gold, and the crowds haven’t arrived yet. Wear comfy shoes—the park’s boardwalks stretch for miles. Bring bug spray in summer and a light jacket for evening breezes. For photos, stand on the bridge’s midpoint and snap the reflection of willow branches in the water. Trust us—it’s Instagram gold!

Final tip: Pair Curved Water Bridge with a visit to nearby Xixi Flower House (a traditional waterside village) for a full day of “Hangzhou slow life.” This spot proves you don’t need loud attractions to feel amazed—sometimes, quiet beauty wins.