Location & Transportation

Marionette (Songcheng Hangzhou) sits along Zhijiang Road in Xihu District, nestled between the lush hills and the iconic Qiantang River. It’s about a 30-minute drive from downtown West Lake, so if you’re already exploring Hangzhou’s famous lake, this makes a perfect add-on. To get here, take Metro Line 5 to Zhichun Road Station (A), then hop on Bus 334 or grab a taxi for a short ride. Driving? There’s plenty of parking, but weekends get crowded. Trust me—the scenic route along Qiantang is worth it!

Natural Scenery

Though Marionette isn’t a nature reserve, its setting is still gorgeous. The park blends into rolling hills, with trees that turn golden in autumn. At night, the river lights up, and the theater’s lanterns cast a warm glow. During summer, a nearby lotus pond blooms, and there’s a small bridge where you can pause for photos. It’s not wild nature, but the garden designs and river views add a calming vibe between shows.

Cultural Highlights: The Marionette Show

The real star here is the Marionette performance—a traditional Chinese puppet art dating back centuries. These aren’t your kid’s string puppets. Imagine dolls dressed in silk costumes, dancing, flipping, and even doing backflips, all controlled by master puppeteers hiding above. The show often tells folk stories like “Legend of the White Snake,” with live music and dramatic lighting. Afterward, you can try mini marionettes in the workshop—it’s way harder than it looks!

More Than Puppets: A Full-Immersion Experience

Beyond the main theater, Marionette offers a mini Song Dynasty village. Stroll through replica streets with tea houses, calligraphy stalls, and street performers. You’ll spot actors in ancient outfits, acrobats, and even fire-breathing shows. The centerpiece? A massive LED screen that projects storms, sunsets, or even a “flying” dragon during night shows. It’s like stepping into a living painting, but with interactive tech.

Food & Facilities

After working up an appetite, head to the Song Dynasty Feast Hall for noodles, dumplings, and sticky rice cakes. There’s also a snack street with grilled squid and taro balls. For families, there are clean restrooms, charging stations, and even free rental strollers. Pro tip: Buy a set meal online—it saves time and money. If you’re staying late, check out the nearby Wanda Resort or budget hotels along Zhijiang Road.

Why You’ll Love Marionette

This isn’t just a “look-don’t-touch” museum. You’ll laugh at the puppets’ goofy moves, cheer during the high-energy finale, and leave with a new appreciation for how much skill goes into making wood and strings feel alive. Bring kids (they’ll love the magic) or visit solo—it’s equally mesmerizing. Just remember: Sit near the front for the best view of the puppeteers’ ninja-like handwork!

Quick Tips: Go on a weekday to avoid crowds, arrive 30 minutes early to snag good seats, and don’t miss the post-show workshop where you can pose with tiny marionettes.

Address: No. 148 Zhijiang Road, Songcheng, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. Open daily, hours vary by season.