Location & Transportation

Yuewangcheng Site sits inside the Xiang Lake Resort Area in Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou. It’s on the top of City Mountain (128 meters tall), surrounded by lush forests and clear lakes. To get there, take Hangzhou Metro Line 2 to Xiang Hu Lu Station, then a short taxi or bus ride to Xiang Lake Scenic Area. The site is a 10-minute uphill walk from the resort’s entrance.

Natural Scenery: A Mountaintop Gem

This ancient castle isn’t just history—it’s also a mountaintop oasis! The site sits like a crown on City Mountain, with steep cliffs on three sides and a flat valley entrance. Inside the walls, you’ll find a spring-fed pool that never dries up, even in summer. The views from the top? Amazing—rolling hills, mist-covered lakes, and chances to spot wild birds diving into the water. Bring your camera for panoramic shots of Xiang Lake below!

Human History: 2,500 Years of Stories

Yuewangcheng Site is a time capsule from China’s Spring and Autumn Period (around 490–500 BCE). Back then, it was a military fortress built by the Yue Kingdom to defend against the Wu Kingdom. The walls are made of hand-packed earth—no bricks! Walk along the 1,091-meter wall, and you’ll see four corner towers where soldiers once kept watch. Fun fact: This is China’s most intact ancient castle from that era. Even locals call it a “mini Great Wall”—but older!

Cultural Treasures: More Than Just Walls

Inside the site, you’ll find reconstructed huts showing how soldiers lived. There’s also a small museum with ancient weapons and pottery. Don’t miss the “mist-filled valley” near the spring—legend says it’s where soldiers hideout during wars. The whole area feels like a movie set for Chinese history fans. Tip: Look for the stone tablets with English explanations—they’re super helpful!

Practical Visit Tips

The site is free to enter but brings cash for souvenirs at the nearby shops. There’s a visitor center at the base of the mountain with maps and restrooms. Wear comfortable shoes—the climb up is rocky, and the walls aren’t barrier-free. If you’re hungry, try Xiang Lake’s Old Street afterward for local snacks like lotus-paste mooncakes.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience

Unlike crowded West Lake, Yuewangcheng Site stays quiet—perfect for solo travelers or couples. At dawn, the mountain turns golden with sunlight, and sunsets cast a red glow over the lake. For a unique photo, stand on the northern wall and frame the castle with Xiang Lake in the background. Just remember: This place is 90% stairs, so pace yourself!

Whether you’re into history, nature, or just avoiding crowds, Yuewangcheng Site is a hidden gem. Explore, take deep breaths, and imagine life as a warrior watching over this stunning landscape!