Xiaya Photography Town

Introducing Xiaya Photography Town

Xiaya Photography Town is located in Jiande City, a suburb of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 12 kilometers away from Xin'anjiang Town. It is situated in the middle section of Xin'anjiang River in Hangzhou's " Two Rivers and One Lake " scenic area . It is a must-go place on the Hangzhou - Qingdao Lake - Huangshan Golden Tourism Line, with beautiful environment and rich cultural heritage.

Xiaya's terrain is unique because the Xin'an River makes a zigzag bend here . While seemingly unremarkable on ordinary days, in midsummer, the stark temperature difference between the Xin'an River 's 17 °C water and the air creates a magical mist belt, also known as " river fog . " During boat trips, the mist, which appears and disappears, creates a fairyland-like scene and captivates countless photography enthusiasts.

Xiaya Town still has a very good ecological environment and ancient style. Stone streets and ancient houses can be seen everywhere. It is simple, natural, simple and peaceful.

Climate and best time to travel

Every summer, especially in July and August, the Xin'an River is shrouded in fog in the early morning, while the villagers are fishing on the river, and a paradise-like scene appears before our eyes.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: about 1 day

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Xiaya Photography Town

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Xiaya Photography Town is a vibrant cultural hub in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, dedicated to photography and visual arts. It combines traditional Chinese architectural styles with modern photography techniques. The town has become a destination for photographers and artists to explore the intersection of nature, culture, and art.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Xiaya Photography Town is located in the outskirts of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car. Public transportation options may be limited, but visitors can use the Hangzhou public bus network or organize a tour to the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Xiaya Photography Town is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light and to avoid the crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 50 RMB for general admission. Tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance via the official website or authorized online platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

While booking in advance is not required, it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends. Booking at least 2–3 days ahead is advisable for photography tours and workshops.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes 2–3 hours to explore the main attractions of Xiaya Photography Town. However, if you participate in a photography workshop or tour, it might take up to 4–5 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Key highlights include the photography museum, the beautiful traditional streets with charming architecture, and the various scenic photo spots around the town. The photo exhibitions showcasing local and international photographers are also a must-see.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and occasionally in English for special tours. Audio guides are not provided, but tour guides offer detailed insights into the history and significance of the town's photography culture.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the old streets with traditional buildings, the serene ponds surrounded by willows, and the stunning views from the elevated areas of the town that overlook the entire town and surrounding hills.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a walk through the central square to get an overview of the town. Then, visit the photography museum, followed by a stroll through the scenic streets. Finally, head to the viewpoints to capture the town’s beauty from different angles.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and special light shows are not available. However, the town offers evening photography tours, where you can capture the charming evening lights of the traditional streets and architecture.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The town can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, preferably early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic facilities including toilets, food stalls, and rest areas. There are also small souvenir shops selling photography-related items and local handicrafts.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The town is accessible for elderly and children, though some of the traditional cobbled streets may be challenging for wheelchair users. It is recommended to check accessibility before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Cash is not always required, but it’s advisable to carry some for smaller purchases in shops or food stalls.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small local cafes and restaurants serving Zhejiang cuisine. Nearby, you’ll also find a number of restaurants that specialize in Hangzhou’s famous dishes, including Longjing tea chicken and West Lake fish.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in nearby restaurants, though halal food options may be more limited in the immediate area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several mid-range hotels near Xiaya Photography Town, including local boutique hotels and some larger chains. Visitors may also consider staying in central Hangzhou and traveling to the town by taxi or public transport.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and the Longjing Tea Fields. These can be easily combined for a day trip when visiting Xiaya Photography Town.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling photography-related merchandise, local handicrafts, and prints of scenic photographs taken by visiting artists and photographers.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best way to continue your trip after visiting Xiaya Photography Town is by taxi or private car. Public transportation can be more time-consuming, especially if you want to visit other major attractions like West Lake.