Location & How to Get There

Mistwater Fishing Village sits in the northern part of Xixi National Wetland Park, near Tianmu Mountain Road at 518, Hangzhou. It’s tucked beside a serene water area called Chao-Tian-Mu-Lang (literally “morning and sunset waters”), just south of Yanshui An (a small temple-like pavilion). To reach it, you can:

  • By bus: Take routes 194, 121, or 356 to the Xixi Wetland Zhoujiacun stop, then walk 10 minutes.
  • By subway: Hop off at Xixi Wetland Station (Line 3) and grab a park shuttle or bike.
  • By car: Drive to the North Entrance of Xixi Wetland—there’s plenty of parking, but get there early!

Natural Scenery: A Hidden Water World

At Mistwater Fishing Village, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a watercolor painting. The area is all about rivers, reeds, and reflections. Think:

  • Shimmering water lanes that wind through tall reeds, perfect for a quiet boat ride.
  • Misty mornings where the fog hugs the water, giving the village its name.
  • Birdlife galore—herons, kingfishers, and even storks if you’re lucky.
  • Seasonal magic: Lotus blooms in summer, golden reeds in fall, and winter’s misty stillness.

Pro tip: Visit on a drizzly day for an extra-dreamy vibe!

Cultural Highlights: Farming & Fishing Traditions

This place isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with West Lake rural charm. Here’s what you’ll see:

  • Old-school fishing demos: Locals show how they’ve fished these waters for centuries using nets and cages.
  • Farm tools on display: Wooden plows, baskets, and antique gear let you peek into Xixi’s farming past.
  • Handicraft workshops: Try weaving reed mats or making straw hats—fun for kids!
  • **The Yanshui An pavilion**: A tiny Buddhist spot nearby where locals light incense for good harvests.

Food & Facilities: Relax Like a Local

After exploring, Mistwater Fishing Village becomes your chill-out hub. Here’s what’s waiting:

  • Waterside cafes: Sip dragon well tea while watching fishermen cast nets. Try west lake vinegar fish—a local favorite!
  • Picnic spots: Rent a bamboo mat under the willows for a laid-back lunch.
  • Souvenir shacks: Pick up reed-woven crafts, tea, or homemade rice cakes.
  • Boat rentals: Paddle a wooden boat to explore hidden corners of the wetland.

What to Expect: A Mini Escape

Visiting Mistwater Fishing Village feels like traveling back in time—but with comfy chairs. Here’s the scoop:

  • Crowd levels: Less packed than West Lake, but still busy on weekends. Go mid-week for peace.
  • Best moments: Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) when the light dances on the water.
  • Family-friendly: Easy strolls, kid-safe boats, and plenty of photo ops (think bridges, lotus ponds, and fish-feeding).
  • Time needed: 2–3 hours to see it all, but you’ll want to stay longer just to soak in the vibe.

Insider Tips

  • Combine with other Xixi spots: Nearby Deep Pool (a clear pond) and Bamboo Temple make great add-ons.
  • Avoid motorboats: Stick to hand-rowed boats for the full rustic experience.
  • Night visits: The village lights up softly after dark, but check park closing times.

Mistwater Fishing Village isn’t just a sight—it’s a slow-paced escape. Whether you’re here to snap photos, try fish soup, or just breathe fresh air, it’s the perfect “reset button” after a busy city trip.