Location & How to Get There
Yue King City Site sits within the Xiang Lake Resort Area in Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou. The address is 2758 Fengqing Avenue, but don’t worry—it’s easy to reach! If you’re coming from Hangzhou’s city center, take Metro Line 2 to Xiang Hu Yi Zhan station, then transfer to a short taxi or bus. Drivers can input “Xianghu Tourist Resort” into navigation apps. The site is nestled by Xiang Lake, a peaceful spot with mountains and water views, so it’s worth combining your visit with a lakeside stroll.
Natural Scenery: Lakes, Mountains, and Tranquility
The ruins are surrounded by Xiang Lake’s serene landscapes, with hills, clear waters, and lush greenery. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the ancient walls, while autumn brings golden reeds along the lakeshore. A walkway winds through the area, offering glimpses of the old city’s moat and stone foundations. For a calming experience, rent a paddleboat on the lake—it’s a peaceful way to connect with history while soaking in nature.
Historical Stories: From War to Poetry
This isn’t just an old castle—it’s the story of King Goujian of Yue, who endured hardships to defeat the State of Wu. Imagine soldiers training here over 2,500 years ago! The site is one of China’s best-preserved ancient walls, with parts still standing tall. Later, poets like Li Bai and Lu You visited, leaving poems that praise Xiang Lake’s beauty. Even Wen Tianxiang, a hero who resisted invaders, wrote about the area. Walking here, you’ll feel like you’re tracing both battles and artistic inspiration.
What to See: Ruins and Relics
At Yue King City Site, explore ancient walls made from huge stones, some still standing 10 feet high! A museum displays weapons and tools from the period, including models of the castle. Don’t miss the reconstructed watchtower—climb it for a view of how the city might have looked. Nearby, statues and plaques explain stories like Goujian’s “sleeping on firewood and tasting gall,” which means he lived modestly to remind himself of revenge.
Facilities for Visitors
The resort area has clear signs, clean restrooms, and a visitor center with maps. Guides (for a fee) can show you hidden details. There’s also a bicycle rental shop if you want to explore Xiang Lake further. Bring cash for snacks at local stands, or pack a picnic—there are shaded tables by the lake.
Tips for Your Visit
- Best Time: Spring (April-June) or autumn (September-November) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Combine with: Nearby attractions like Huayan Temple (another historic spot) or the Xiang Lake Flower Expo Park.
- Wear: Comfortable shoes—there’s lots of walking on uneven paths.
- Fun Fact: Parts of the site were used as film locations for historical dramas!
A visit here feels like stepping back in time. Whether you’re into history, nature, or poetry, Yue King City Site offers layers of stories waiting to be discovered.