Geography & Transportation

Nestled in Xin’Er Village, Huyuan Township, Fuyang District, Hangzhou, the Xin'Er Village Yuanshu Paper Production Base is a hidden gem for culture lovers. To get here, drive about 1.5 hours from downtown Hangzhou, or take a bus to Fuyang and then a taxi to Huyuan. The village sits among lush green hills, surrounded by endless bamboo forests—perfect for a peaceful escape.

Natural Scenery: Bamboo Forests Galore

The area is blanketed with cerataphyllum (a local bamboo species), which bend like green waves in the wind. Walking through the village, you’ll feel wrapped in nature. In spring and summer, the mist clings to the hills, making the scenery feel like a traditional Chinese painting. Locals say the bamboo here grows taller and stronger because of the clean mountain air and rich soil—ideal for making paper!

Cultural Heritage: 1900 Years of Paper-Making Magic

Did you know? Yuanshu paper from Fuyang has been used in imperial exams since ancient times! This place isn’t just old—it’s a living museum. The craft here was named a national intangible cultural heritage in 2006. Imagine: one stalk of bamboo becomes paper after 72 steps! You’ll see workers peeling, boiling, and drying the paper by hand. It’s like watching art in slow motion.

Must-See: The Paper Culture Exhibition Hall

At the Fuyang Yuanshu Paper Culture Exhibition Hall, you’ll dive into the history of this craft. The hall has four sections:

  1. “First Glimpse”: Learn how bamboo becomes paper.
  2. “Close-Up”: See tools and ancient techniques.
  3. “Reflection”: Admire calligraphy on Yuanshu paper.
    The highlight? A giant flowchart showing all 72 steps (yes, 72!) of paper-making. Kids love the interactive zone, where they can try making mini paper with real tools.

Hands-On Fun: Make Your Own Paper!

Want to try your hand at paper-making? At the Xin’Er Yuanshu Paper Workshop, guides teach you to dip, lift, and dry your own sheet. Pro tip: Wear socks—the water is chilly! You’ll leave with a souvenir and newfound respect for craftsmen who do this all day.

Why Visit? Unique Charm & Authenticity

Unlike touristy spots, this village feels real. Elders still chat by the stream, and the air smells of wood fires and fresh bamboo. The paper here is famous for being super thin but strong—perfect for calligraphy. Locals joke, “A single sheet from Fuyang can last a lifetime!”

Practical Tips

  • Best Time: Spring (bamboo shoots) or autumn (harvest season).
  • Guided Tours: Available in Chinese; English guides need advance booking.
  • Souvenirs: Buy handmade paper notebooks or lanterns made of Yuanshu paper.
  • Food: Try local bamboo shoot dishes at village cafes.

Come to Xin'Er Village Yuanshu Paper Production Base for a mix of nature, history, and hands-on fun. It’s not just a tour—it’s a journey back in time!