Location & Accessibility
Nestled in the heart of Anji County, Zhejiang Province, International Bamboo Art Trade City sits alongside Provincial Highway 11 in the Economic Development Zone. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Hangzhou, making it a perfect day trip for urban escapers. The area feels like a hidden gem—surrounded by lush green hills and endless bamboo forests, yet just a stone’s throw from major highways.
For drivers, GPS coordinates lead you straight to the entrance, where free parking is available. Public transport users can take a bus from Hangzhou’s Gaotie Station to Anji Bus Terminal, then hop on Local Bus 201 (tell the driver “Bamboo Trade City”—they’ll know). Cyclists will love the scenic route along Highway 11, with rental bikes available nearby.
Natural Scenery: A Bamboo Wonderland
International Bamboo Art Trade City isn’t just a marketplace—it’s wrapped in nature. As soon as you arrive, towering ceratophyllum phyllostachys bamboo stalks greet you, swaying gently in the breeze. The air smells fresh, like a mix of earth and plant sap. Walking through the area feels like stepping into a giant green tunnel, especially along the shaded pathways lined with moss-covered stones.
In spring and summer, the bamboo forest hums with cicadas and birdsong. Locals recommend visiting after a rain when the air is cool and the leaves glisten. There’s even a small stream running through the property where kids (and adults!) can’t resist throwing pebbles.
Cultural Highlights: Bamboo Crafts Unlocked
This isn’t your average tourist trap—International Bamboo Art Trade City is a working hub for artisans. Here, you’ll find families who’ve passed down bamboo-weaving skills for generations. Workshops line the main street, where you can watch craftsmen transform raw bamboo into everything from intricate tea trays to entire furniture sets.
One standout spot is the Bamboo Carving Pavilion, where artists use lasers and traditional tools to etch landscapes onto chopsticks. Don’t miss the live demonstrations at Chen Xihai Bamboo Art Studio—the owner’s been featured on TV for his life-size bamboo sculptures!
Practical Perks: More Than Just Souvenirs
Even non-art lovers will appreciate the amenities. The Bamboo Café serves bubble tea in bamboo cups, while food stalls offer Anji specialties like bamboo shoot dumplings. Clean restrooms and free Wi-Fi hotspots are scattered throughout, and there’s even a kids’ play area shaped like a giant bamboo fort.
Shopping here is addictive. Prices start at just \(5 for tiny bamboo animals, but splurge on a custom-carved tea set (\)50–$200) if you’re looking for something unique. Bargaining is politely welcomed—just smile and point!
Immersive Experiences: Go Beyond Watching
What makes International Bamboo Art Trade City special? The chance to do instead of just see. Sign up for a 30-minute workshop to weave your own fan or plant a miniature bamboo garden. During festivals (like the Autumn Bamboo Fair), the whole space transforms with lanterns, live music, and midnight markets.
Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes! The winding paths between workshops are lovely but can get slippery when wet. And bring a reusable bag—you’ll want to carry home more than you expect!
This blend of nature, culture, and hands-on fun makes International Bamboo Art Trade City a must-visit. Whether you’re a craft enthusiast or just seeking calm, it’s a slice of Anji’s soul that feels worlds away from city chaos.