Hidden Gem by the West Lake: Yuhu Bay Scenic Area

Tucked away on the western edge of Hangzhou’s iconic West Lake, Yuhu Bay Scenic Area (Hangzhou West Lake Scenic Area - Yuhu Bay Scenic Area) feels like a secret garden waiting to be discovered. Despite its compact size, this tranquil spot offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation—all just a stone’s throw from the busier parts of the lake.

Location & How to Get There

Yuhu Bay sits between Yanggong Causeway (East) and Santaishan Road (West), stretching from Turtle Pond in the north to Hupao Road in the south. The address is No. 29, Chishanbu, Shihanshan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. To reach it:

  • By bus: Lines 4 or 194 drop you near Chishanbu or Yuhangling stations, a 5-minute walk away.
  • By metro: Take Metro Line 10 to Longwulu Station, then transfer to a taxi or bike.
  • Driving: Park at Yanggong Causeway or Santaishan Road—beware, weekends get busy!

Natural Beauty: A Miniature Paradise

Though small, Yuhu Bay packs big charm. Imagine a tiny peninsula where mountains hug the water, and flowers bloom year-round. In spring, cherry blossoms and lotus leaves create a pink-and-green canvas. Summer brings shaded paths and dragonflies skimming the pond. Autumn paints the hills with fiery maple leaves, while winter’s quiet snowfall turns the bay into a water墨画 (ink wash painting). The best part? It’s never crowded—ideal for solo wanderers or cozy couples.

Cultural Tidbits: Name & History

The name “Yuhu Bay” comes from an old legend. Locals say it’s where cranes (yu) once bathed (hu) in the crystal-clear waters. Today, you’ll find no cranes, but plenty of ducks and herons! Nearby, Turtle Pond (a tiny lake shaped like… a turtle!) adds a playful touch. For history buffs, Chishanbu (Red Hill Dock) dates back to Song Dynasty times, when emperors used to fish here.

What to Do: More Than Just Photos

  • Walk the trails: A 30-minute loop takes you past pavilions, bridges, and bamboo groves.
  • Tea time: Perch at a lakeside teahouse (try Longjing tea) and watch cormorant fishermen on the lake.
  • Spot wildlife: Bring binoculars for kingfishers, or join a morning tai chi group by the water.
  • Seasonal treats: In fall, pick chestnuts from nearby trees; winter brings osmanthus-scented snacks.

Amenities: Simple but Sweet

No fancy museums here—just basic comforts:

  • Clean restrooms near the entrance.
  • Benches and gazebos for picnics (bring your own snacks!).
  • Bike rentals to explore nearby Longjing Village or Lingyin Temple.
  • Souvenir shops with affordable silk scarves and West Lake-themed knick-knacks.

Why You’ll Love It

Yuhu Bay isn’t about ticking off sights—it’s about slowing down. Sip tea while boats bob gently on the lake, listen to cicadas hum in the summer heat, or catch the sunset painting the sky pink. Unlike crowded Broken Bridge or Leifeng Pagoda, this spot lets you breathe. Come early for fog-kissed mornings, or late for golden hour magic. Just remember: the best views are often the simplest ones!

Pro tip: Pair your visit with nearby Xixi National Wetland Park (15-minute drive) for a full day of nature-loving bliss.