Location & How to Get There

Yongqian Square, Yuquan Campus, Zhejiang University sits in the heart of Zhejiang University’s Yuquan Campus, near Zhiquan Road. The address is No. 38 Zheda Road, which is a quiet yet vibrant area in Hangzhou. If you’re coming from downtown, it’s about a 20-minute drive. The square is nestled between academic buildings, making it a peaceful escape while still being part of the university’s lively atmosphere.

To reach Yongqian Square, you can take Bus 197 or Bus 277 to the “Zhejiang University Yuquan Campus” stop. The Metro Line 1 (Hangzhou Metro) also has a station nearby, though you’ll need to walk about 10 minutes. If you’re using a bike, there are plenty of bike-sharing options like Hello Bike or Bluegogo around the campus.

Natural Beauty: A Relaxing Oasis

Yongqian Square is surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees, especially cherry blossoms in spring, which make it a perfect spot for photos. The square has a small pond with koi fish, and there are benches where you can sit and enjoy the view. In summer, the shade from the trees makes it a cool retreat from the heat. Even in winter, the bare branches and quiet paths have a calming vibe.

The best time to visit is during sunset when the light filters through the trees, creating a warm, golden atmosphere. If you’re lucky, you might spot students practicing traditional Chinese instruments or families having picnics on the grass.

Cultural & Historical Touches

Yuquan Campus itself is over 70 years old, and Yongqian Square is named after a famous professor from Zhejiang University. The area blends old-school charm with modern touches—you’ll see red-brick buildings with ivy climbing up the walls, mixed with newer structures. Nearby, there’s a small museum called the Zhejiang University History Museum, which showcases the university’s role in China’s education and innovation.

Even if you don’t visit the museum, walking around Yongqian Square gives you a sense of its history. Look for the bronze statues of scholars and the stone tablets with Chinese calligraphy—they add a touch of elegance to the space.

Practical Amenities for Visitors

The campus is very visitor-friendly. Near Yongqian Square, you’ll find cafes like “Literati” that serve affordable coffee and snacks. There’s also a student-run teahouse where you can try local Longjing tea. For meals, the nearby Zhiyuan Canteen offers cheap and tasty Chinese food, though it’s mostly self-serve.

Don’t worry about facilities—there are clean restrooms and plenty of trash bins. If you get tired, there are shaded benches and even a small bookswap corner where locals leave books for others to read.

What to Do & Who It’s For

Yongqian Square is great for a slow-paced visit. Stroll along the paths, watch students studying under the trees, or rent a paddle boat for the pond (if available). Families will love the open space, while couples might enjoy the romantic sunset views. If you’re into photography, bring your camera—the mix of nature, architecture, and people makes for interesting shots.

Avoid visiting on weekdays during the day, as some areas might be busier with classes. Weekends are livelier but still never feel crowded.

Final Tips

  • Best Time: Spring (March-April) for cherry blossoms, or autumn (October-November) for cool weather.
  • Combine With: After visiting Yongqian Square, walk 15 minutes to West Lake or explore the nearby Botanical Garden.
  • Free Entry: The campus and square are open to everyone, no tickets needed.

Yongqian Square isn’t a typical tourist spot, but that’s what makes it special. It’s a chance to see everyday life in one of China’s top universities while enjoying nature and culture. Perfect for travelers who want a break from busy景点!