Location & How to Get There

Xixi Thatched Cottage, tucked in the northeastern corner of Xixi National Wetland Park, is a hidden gem in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. To reach it, take Metro Line 3 to Xixi Wetland Station (Xixi Shengdi Zhan), then either walk 15 minutes through the park’s scenic trails or hop on a shuttle bus. If driving, punch in “Xixi Thatched Cottage” (address: 518 Tianmushan Road, Xihu District) into your GPS—parking is available near the main entrance.

Natural Beauty: A Wetland Oasis

Nestled within China’s first national wetland park, Xixi Thatched Cottage feels like a step back in time. The area buzzes with life: reeds sway in the wind, lotus flowers bloom in summer, and herons glide over shimmering ponds. Unlike crowded West Lake, this spot offers serene waterways, wooden boardwalks, and bamboo groves. Visit early morning or late afternoon to catch soft sunlight filtering through the trees—perfect for photos!

The cottage’s story? It belonged to Feng Mengzhen, a super-famous writer and scholar from the Ming era (think Shakespeare-level fame, but way earlier!). Today, Xixi Thatched Cottage recreates his home’s vibe: two courtyards flank a two-story house divided by a fishpond. Walk inside, and you’ll see traditional black tiles, carved wood beams, and antique furniture. Guides often share fun facts about Feng’s life—like how he hosted parties here for poet friends.

Architecture 101: Design Details

The layout is genius. The main house (nanbian zhengfang) faces south, with a porch perfect for sipping tea. Upstairs, tiny windows frame views of the pond. Downstairs, wooden screens and calligraphy scrolls hint at Feng’s artistic side. Bonus: Peek into the smaller north building, which feels like a cozy reading nook. Don’t miss the fishpond splitting the structures—it’s said to symbolize balance in Feng’s philosophy.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

Wear comfy shoes! The park’s paths mix dirt, wood, and stone. Bring bug spray (mosquitoes love wetlands) and sunscreen. Xixi Thatched Cottage has clean restrooms and a small café selling dragon well tea (Hangzhou’s specialty) and snacks. For deeper history, rent an audio guide or tag along with a tour group—they drop by every hour.

Seasonal Magic: When to Visit

Spring? Pink peach blossoms and chirping cicadas. Summer? Lotus festivals and fireflies at dusk. Autumn? Golden reeds and mist-covered ponds. Winter? Misty mornings that make the cottage look like a painting. Honestly, anytime works, but weekdays are less crowded.

Insider Hacks

  • Avoid the crowds: Arrive before 9 AM or after 4 PM.
  • Photo spots: The bridge over the fishpond and the back courtyard’s bamboo archway.
  • Combine with nearby spots: After visiting Xixi Thatched Cottage, stroll 10 minutes to “Song Dynasty Fishing Village” for more old-school vibes.

Final Thoughts

Xixi Thatched Cottage isn’t just a historic house—it’s a portal to Ming Dynasty life, wrapped in wetland tranquility. Whether you’re into nature, photography, or ancient culture, this spot has something for you. Pro tip: Sit by the pond for a minute, close your eyes, and listen to the frogs. Trust us—Feng would’ve loved that.