Location & How to Get There

Lotus Village sits inside the Xiang Lake Resort Area in Xiaoshan, Hangzhou. It’s tucked near the eastern side of Kuahu Bridge, about 30 kilometers southwest of Hangzhou’s city center. To reach this hidden gem, take Metro Line 5 to Xiang Lake Station, then a quick taxi or bike ride along Fengqing Avenue. If you drive, GPS “Zhejiang Xiang Lake Tourist Resort, 2758 Fengqing Avenue”—there’s free parking!

Natural Beauty: Lotus Blooms Everywhere

Lotus Village lives up to its name! From late June to August, pink, white, and purple lotus flowers cover the lake, backed by tall, green leaves swaying in the wind. It’s like a painting, but better—you can walk wooden bridges over the water and smell the flowers up close. Unlike busy West Lake, here you’ll find quiet spots to sit and watch dragonflies dance. The best time to visit is early morning or sunset when the light makes the petals glow.

Walkable Gardens & Bridges

The 3,460-square-meter area feels much bigger thanks to clever design. Curved stone bridges lead you through pavilions with red lanterns and roofs shaped like traditional Chinese hats. Shaded corridors let you escape the midday heat. My favorite spot? A bamboo grove next to a lotus pond where you can hear frogs croaking. Bring a good camera—every angle looks like a postcard!

Culture Meets Nature

Don’t miss the old-style gazebos where locals play traditional instruments on weekends. Some pavilions even host calligraphy workshops if you want to try writing Chinese characters. The bridges have poetic names carved on them, like “Reflection of Lotus” and “Song of the Wind.” Even if you don’t understand Chinese, the peaceful vibe makes you slow down.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Shade & Rest: Lots of benches under trees, plus umbrella-covered lounges by the lake.
• Food & Drinks: Small cafes sell lotus-flavored ice cream and tea with edible flower petals.
• Bike Rentals: Cheap bikes let you explore nearby Xiang Lake without getting tired.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love feeding fish in the lotus pond (bring bread!) and running on the grassy hills.

Why Visit Lotus Village?

Hangzhou is famous for West Lake, but Lotus Village feels like its laid-back cousin. It’s perfect if you want fewer crowds and more “wow” moments. Spend 2-3 hours here: wander the bridges, snap photos, and maybe even nap in a hammock by the water. Afterward, head to Xiang Lake’s archaeology museum to see ancient boat ruins—it’s all part of the same resort area!

Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes (some cobblestone paths) and bring bug spray if you plan to stay till dusk. Rain or shine, Lotus Village never disappoints!