Location & Accessibility
Thousand-Year Ginkgo Park sits in Xiangxi Village, Xindeng Town, Fuyang District, about 1.5 hours’ drive west of central Hangzhou. The park revolves around a 1,300-year-old ginkgo tree, making it a must-see spot for nature lovers. To get there, you can either drive along the expressway (exit at Xindeng) or take a local bus from Hangzhou West Bus Station to Xindeng, then hop in a taxi for the final 10-minute ride. The address in Chinese is easy to share with drivers: 浙江省杭州市富阳区新登镇湘溪村.
Natural Wonders: The Ginkgo Superstar
The heart of Thousand-Year Ginkgo Park is its ancient ginkgo tree, towering at nearly 30 meters tall with a trunk so thick it takes six adults holding hands to hug it. In autumn, the tree transforms into a golden explosion, with leaves blanketing the ground like a glittering carpet. Even in summer, its vast shade creates a cool oasis, while winter reveals stark, sculptural branches. Nearby, a bamboo grove and a bubbling stream add tranquility, and a stone bridge leads to the perfect photo spot with the ginkgo as a backdrop.
Cultural Charm: Legends & Local Life
This ginkgo isn’t just old—it’s legendary. Locals say it grew beside an ancient temple, where monks once planted it to symbolize longevity and resilience. Today, villagers still place red ribbons on its branches for good luck. Wander through Xiangxi Village to see traditional stone houses and narrow alleys, where elders sell fresh bamboo crafts. The park also hosts seasonal festivals during the ginkgo’s fall foliage, with local dances and ginkgo nut snacks.
Practical Tips: Visiting Like a Pro
- Best time to visit: Late October to early December for the golden leaves. Arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the softest light.
- What to bring: Comfy shoes for walking, a camera, and a picnic mat (there’s a shaded lawn area).
- Guided tours: Local guides offer storytelling walks in English or Mandarin for deeper insights.
- Accessible fun: The park is flat and stroller-friendly, with clear paths and signs.
Food & Facilities: Taste & Rest
After exploring, grab homestyle dishes at nearby farmhouses—try braised ginkgo nuts or stewed pork with bamboo shoots. For drinks, sip local green tea at a riverside stall. The park has clean restrooms, a small gift shop (buy ginkgo-leaf souvenirs!), and free Wi-Fi near the entrance.
Full-Day Adventure: Pair with Nearby Gems
Combine your trip to Thousand-Year Ginkgo Park with a visit to Xindeng Ancient Town (15 minutes away) for well-preserved Ming-Qing buildings, or hike up Liangzhu Mountain for panoramic views. End the day with a hot spring soak in Fuyang—the perfect way to relax after a day of adventure.
Whether you’re a photography buff, history buff, or just seeking peace, Thousand-Year Ginkgo Park offers a magical escape into nature and tradition. Just remember: this ginkgo isn’t just a tree—it’s a living monument to time, seasons, and the quiet beauty of rural China.