Location & Accessibility
Quyuan Fenghe sits along the western shore of West Lake in Hangzhou’s Xihu Scenic Area, near the Su Causeway and Yanggong Causeway. To get there, take Bus 1314 (a local romantic touch!) or the West Lake sightseeing bus. If you’re staying near Longxin Village or Duan Bridge, it’s an easy walk. Rent a bike from Alibaba’s Hello Bike stations for a flexible ride—just follow the lotus-lined paths to this hidden gem.
Nature’s Canvas: Lotus Paradise
This summer stunner is one of West Lake’s Top 10 Views. At Quyuan Fenghe, over 100 lotus species burst into pink, white, and yellow blooms from June to August. Walk across zigzagging bridges that feel like floating on water—the lotus leaves stretch so far, you’ll swear you’re in a Monet painting! Mornings are magic here: dewy petals open with the sun, and dragonflies dance above the emerald waves of leaves. Pro tip: Visit after a rain for reflections that’ll make your Instagram pop!
A Brew House Tale: History Meets Fragrance
Back in the Southern Song Dynasty, this spot was a wine-making workshop. Craftsmen used nearby spring water to brew rice wine, and when the summer wind blew, lotus scent mixed with alcohol aroma—hence the name “Curved Yard, Lotus and Wine” (translated as Quyuan Fenghe). Today, you can still sip tea at pavilions where poets once wrote verses about the “drunken mix of flowers and booze”.
Bridges, Pavilions, and Photo Ops
The park’s lotus-themed bridges are pure charm. Some are arched like willow leaves, others straight as reeds. Stand on the Nine-Bend Bridge at sunset: golden light filters through leaves, and you’ll catch fluffy lotus buds bobbing below. For a classic shot, pose by the red-walled pavilion near the entrance—it’s the poster frame of Quyuan Fenghe!
Relax & Refuel: Dining with a View
After exploring, grab lotus-root cakes or dragon-well tea at lakeside cafes. The Lotus Pavilion Restaurant serves fresh lotus seeds in sugar—a local treat. For a splurge, book a boat dinner on nearby Xihu (West Lake) to see Quyuan Fenghe’s lights reflecting on the water at night.
When to Visit & Insider Tips
July–August is peak bloom, but go early June or late August to avoid crowds. Arrive before 7 AM or stay till dusk—that’s when the locals photograph the mist rising over the lotuses. Combine your trip with Leifeng Pagoda or Three Pools Mirroring the Moon for a full West Lake day.
Final tip: Wear comfy shoes—those lotus-leaf bridges look short but add up! And keep your eyes peeled for turtles sunbathing on rocks—they’re part of the Quyuan Fenghe charm.
