Location & How to Get There
Xianghu Phase III Flower Sea Rowing Boat sits in the southeastern corner of Xianghu National Tourist Resort, near Dingshan Road in Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Hangzhou’s city center or a 10-minute taxi ride from Xiaoshan Airport. If you’re coming by public transport, take Metro Line 2 to Xianghu Road Station, then transfer to bus 405—the resort is well-signposted. For a scenic route, bike along the Xianghu Lake Rim Road; rental shops are everywhere!
Nature’s Canvas: The Flower Sea
This place is basically a postcard come to life! Imagine floating through a sea of flowers while gently rowing a wooden boat. In spring, millions of tulips and daffodils burst into color, smelling like perfume. Summer brings sunflower fields that stretch as far as the eye can see, while autumn paints the lakeside with pink cosmos and lavender. Even winter has its charm—wintersweet blossoms fill the air with their sweet scent. The best part? You’re not just watching—you’re gliding through the flowers, with petals brushing against your boat.
Cultural Touches: More Than Just Flowers
Don’t miss the ancient bridges arching over the lake, perfect for photo ops. The area has roots in Song Dynasty history (around 900 AD), and you’ll spot traditional pavilions where poets once wrote verses. If you visit in autumn, check out the lantern festivals by the water—locals float lights on the lake, creating a magical nighttime scene. There’s also a tiny island temple where you can make a wish… just don’t tell everyone, or it’ll get too crowded!
Practical Tips: What to Bring
Wear comfy shoes and bring sunscreen—there’s lots of walking (or rowing!) under the sun. Rental boats cost around ¥100 per hour, and they’ll throw in a paddle map to guide you. Thirsty? The lakeside tea houses serve dragon well tea with snacks like sesame biscuits. Pro tip: Go early morning or late afternoon. Midday can be sweaty (no shade!), and weekends get packed.
Family-Friendly Fun
Kids will love the DIY flower crown stalls near the entrance—they’ll even teach you how to weave them. There’s a shaded playground with swings and a small sandy beach for building castles. For food, try the local fish soup at the lakeside restaurants; it’s fresh-caught daily. If someone’s a lightweight, rent a pedal boat instead—it’s easier to control than a traditional rowboat.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Vibes
Want to escape the crowds? Take a hidden path past the flower fields to a bamboo grove. It’s quieter and feels like another world. Locals say if you listen closely by the water at dawn, you might hear lotus leaves rustling in the wind. Romantic, right? Just avoid the mosquitoes in summer—bring spray!
Final Thoughts
Xianghu Phase III Flower Sea Rowing Boat isn’t just a pretty spot—it’s a sensory experience. You’ll smell the flowers, feel the lake breeze, and hear laughter from other boaters. Whether you’re a couple on a date, a family with kids, or a solo traveler with a camera, this place has something for everyone. Just remember: No littering! Keep this paradise as pristine as it is.
(Key words: Xianghu Phase III Flower Sea Rowing Boat, flower sea, rowing boat, Xiaoshan, Hangzhou, lakeside, Song Dynasty, lanterns, dragon well tea, pedal boat, lotus leaves)