Hidden Gem: Xitong Village in Hangzhou

Location & How to Get There
Xitong Village sits in Yuhang District, Hangzhou, surrounded by lush hills and winding waterways. It’s a 40-minute drive from downtown Hangzhou or about an hour by train from Shanghai. The easiest way to reach Xitong Village is by renting a bike or taking a local bus from Hangzhou’s metro stations. Once there, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a peaceful paradise!

Natural Beauty
Xitong Village is all about nature. Imagine narrow canals lined with stone bridges, rice paddies that change colors with the seasons, and bamboo forests that rustle in the wind. In spring, yellow rapeseed flowers cover the fields, while summer brings lotus blooms in the ponds. Autumn paints the village golden with ripe rice, and winter wraps it in quiet snow. Don’t miss the Xitong Waterway, where you can boat through shady willow trees—it’s like a scene from a painting!

Culture & History
This village isn’t just pretty—it’s full of stories! Old houses here still look like they did centuries ago, with wooden beams and carved doors. Locals keep traditions alive, like making silk scarves or clay pots by hand. You might spot a traditional tea ceremony at a family-run teahouse or catch a lion dance during festivals. The Ancestral Hall in Xitong Village is a must-see; it’s where villagers honor their ancestors, and the carvings on the roof are amazing!

Stay, Eat, & Relax
Xitong Village has cozy homestays run by local families. Try staying in a waterfront guesthouse where you can hear frogs croak at night. For food, dig into fresh river fish, sticky rice wrapped in bamboo leaves, and crispy fried rice cakes. There’s even a small café with Wi-Fi if you need a coffee break.

Things to Do
Start your day with a boat ride along the canals at dawn. Then rent a bike to explore hidden paths—you’ll pass by 百年老树 (century-old trees) and tiny temples. In the evening, join a lantern-making workshop or watch the sunset turn the sky pink over the lotus pond. If you visit on a weekend, the village hosts a street market where you can buy handmade crafts and snacks.

Why You’ll Love It
Xitong Village feels like a secret world. It’s perfect for escaping city noise, snapping photos of ancient bridges, and chatting with friendly villagers. Bring your camera, comfy shoes, and a sense of adventure—you’ll leave with memories (and maybe a few souvenirs!) to cherish.

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