Location & Accessibility

The Qing Imperial Palace Site · Nanmu Bedroom Celadon Stone Xumizuo Remains sits quietly on Gushan (Solitary Hill), a lush, lakeside retreat in the heart of West Lake Scenic Area, Hangzhou. To reach this hidden gem, take Bus 1314 (a romantically numbered local route) or Metro Line 1 to Longjing Road Station. From there, it’s a 10-minute stroll along Longjing Road, where cherry blossoms frame your path in spring. The site is nestled near Su Causeway and Broken Bridge, making it easy to combine visits.

Natural Scenery: A Blend of Lake, Mountain, and Seasons

Gushan Island feels like a mini paradise within West Lake. In spring, pale pink cherry trees bloom around the palace ruins, while summer brings lotus flowers floating on the nearby lake. Autumn paints the hills in gold and crimson, and winter wraps the stone relics in a serene, foggy silence. The Celadon Stone Xumizuo (a carved, emerald-green stone base) peeks through moss and vines, blending history with nature’s ever-changing canvas. For a peaceful escape, rent a paddle boat near Xiliu Bridge to view the island from the water—the palace ruins look even more mysterious against the lake’s shimmering surface.

Cultural Treasures: Imperial Secrets and Carved Stones

This site once held the Nanmu Bedroom, a Qing Dynasty imperial pavilion built for Emperor Qianlong’s visits. Though the wooden structures faded, the Celadon Stone Xumizuo remains—a sturdy, intricately carved stone platform that once supported the emperor’s bed. Look closely: the Xumizuo features traditional Buddhist motifs (lotus flowers, dragons) etched into its surface. Nearby, a weathered stone tablet hints at poems Qianlong penned here, celebrating West Lake’s beauty. Even without the original palace, these remnants offer a tangible link to China’s imperial past.

Practical Visit Tips: What to Expect

  • Opening hours: Daily 8 AM–5 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).
  • Tickets: Free! (No need to buy a separate ticket—it’s included in the West Lake Scenic Area pass).
  • Guided tours: Available in English/Chinese for ¥50 (book at the Qing Dynasty Culture Exhibition Hall next door).
  • Photo spots: The Xumizuo glows magically in early morning light, while sunset casts long shadows across the stone carvings.
  • Restrooms & cafes: Find clean facilities and a teahouse serving Longjing tea near the entrance.

Immersive Experience: Wander, Learn, and Reflect

Walking through the ruins, you’ll feel a timeless calm—far from West Lake’s busier spots. Touch the cool, textured Celadon Stone Xumizuo (but gently!), then follow a bamboo grove trail leading to a lakeside gazebo. Here, locals practice tai chi or play traditional instruments, adding a living layer to the history. For context, scan the QR codes beside exhibits for audio stories about Qianlong’s love for West Lake. If you’re lucky, you might spot a calligraphy workshop hosted by elderly artists near the site—join in for a creative souvenir!

Nearby Attractions: Plan Your Day

After exploring the palace ruins:

  1. Walk 15 minutes to Wenlan Tower for panoramic lake views.
  2. Hop on a pedal boat at Xiaojin Park to see the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon.
  3. End your day with dim sum at Wu Mountain Night Market (10-minute taxi ride).

This quiet corner of West Lake rewards slow travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or photo enthusiast, the Qing Imperial Palace Site offers a layered experience—where imperial echoes meet the gentle rhythm of the lake.