Location & Transportation
Huagang Park sits on the southwestern shore of West Lake in Hangzhou, right next to Yanggong Causeway (No. 10, Yagongquan Road). It’s super easy to reach: take the metro to Longjing Station (Line 1) and walk 10 minutes, or hop on a bus like No. 4 or No. 315. If you’re driving, there’s a parking lot nearby, but weekdays are less crowded. Pro tip: Visit early to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons!
Natural Scenery: Fish, Flowers, and Tranquility
Huagang Park is famous for its red fish pond, where hundreds of colorful carp swim up to visitors. Bring some fish food—it’s fun to watch them jump! In spring, the park turns into a pink wonderland with cherry blossoms and peonies. There’s also a bamboo grove and a big lawn perfect for picnics. For fall vibes, head to the maple forest area. Bonus: The park connects to Su Causeway, so you can combine a walk with lake views.
Cultural Touches: History and Legends
This spot isn’t just pretty—it’s got history! Back in the Qing Dynasty, emperors used Huagang Park as a royal fishing spot. You’ll see old stone bridges and pavilions that date back centuries. There’s a cool story about a poet named Su Shi (think: ancient Chinese writer) who once enjoyed the area. Even if you’re not into history, the traditional architecture makes for great photo ops!
Practical Info: Food, Rest, and Facilities
The park has clean restrooms, free Wi-Fi, and vendingers for snacks. Near the entrance, there’s a small café serving tea and local treats like “Longjing shrimp” (fried rice with dragon well tea!). For lunch, walk 15 minutes to the lakeside restaurants. Pro tip: Rent a bike from the park’s rental shop to explore nearby attractions like Lingyin Temple or Longjing Tea Plantations.
What to Expect: A Relaxing Day Out
Huagang Park is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers. Spend 2-3 hours feeding fish, snapping photos, and strolling. Weekdays are quieter, while weekends get lively. Pair it with a boat ride on West Lake for the full experience. Just remember: Wear comfy shoes—there’s lots of walking on uneven paths!
Key words: Huagang Park, West Lake, red fish pond, Yanggong Causeway, cherry blossoms, Su Causeway, Qing Dynasty, Su Shi, free Wi-Fi, Longjing Tea.