Location & Transportation

HangZhou ChangQiao Polar Ocean Park sits in the scenic Xianghu Lake area of Xiaoshan District, a 30-minute drive southwest of central Hangzhou. The park is nestled within the larger Xianghu Scenic Area, making it easy to combine a visit with lakeside strolls or boat rides. To get there:

  • By metro: Take Metro Line 1 to Xianghu Station (Exit A), then transfer to a taxi or bus 405⁄422 (15-min ride).
  • By car: Plenty of parking available; enter “HangZhou ChangQiao Polar Ocean Park” into your GPS for direct routes.
  • Highlight tip: If staying near West Lake, pair your trip with a morning at the lake and afternoon at the park—they’re only a short drive apart!

Natural Wonders: Arctic to Ocean

Stepping into HangZhou ChangQiao Polar Ocean Park feels like teleporting to icy realms. The Arctic Tunnel mimics a frozen wonderland with glittering ice walls and playful penguins waddling overhead. At the North Pole Exhibit, massive polar bears splash in crystal-clear pools, while seals lounge on rocky “icebergs.”

The Ocean Hall bursts with color: schools of tropical fish dart through coral forests, jellyfish pulse like neon lanterns, and a 90-degree Underwater Tunnel lets you walk alongside sharks and rays. Don’t miss the Penguin Pavilion—these tuxedoed birds “fly” underwater, flipping and twisting in a choreographed ballet.

Animal Showstoppers & Human Connections

What makes HangZhou ChangQiao Polar Ocean Park special? Its star residents! The orca whale (nicknamed “Little Blue”) is a rare highlight—one of the few orcas in Chinese marine parks. Watch trainers guide this gentle giant through flips and waves in the Ocean Stadium.

For laughs, the Seal Show steals the stage. These clever creatures balance balls, dance to music, and even kiss guests! Nearby, the Polar Bear Feeding session lets kids (under supervision) toss fish to the fluffy kings of the Arctic.

Family-Friendly Extras

Even non-animal lovers will enjoy HangZhou ChangQiao Polar Ocean Park. The Snowflake Ice Bar offers frosty cocktails in a -5°C room, while the Mermaid Café serves bubble tea with an ocean view. Stroller-friendly paths, clean restrooms, and free Wi-Fi make it stress-free for families.

Pro tip: Buy combo tickets online for discounts (~¥20 cheaper) and avoid weekend crowds if possible.

Why It’s Worth a Visit

HangZhou ChangQiao Polar Ocean Park isn’t just a zoo—it’s a day of immersive adventure. From cuddling sea otters to high-fives with seals, it’s designed for smiles and “wow” moments. Whether you’re a kid marveling at glowing jellyfish or an adult geeking out over orcas, this park has something cold (and warm!) for everyone.

Pack a light jacket for the icy zones, wear comfy shoes, and prepare to take way too many photos—your friends back home won’t believe you swam with sharks in Hangzhou!