Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well

Introducing Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well

The Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well, located next to Manjuelong Guiyu Park in Hangzhou , is one of the oldest wells in the city, boasting a history of over 200 years. Legend has it that during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period, this area housed Ganlu Temple, which was later converted into Guangshi Zen Temple during the Northern Song Dynasty and rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty. Within the temple, a spring boasted clear and sweet water. Later, the spring was abandoned, and four wells were built, giving it the name Four-Eyed Well. The four wellheads are surrounded by a stone fence. Leaning in, one can see the gurgling water flowing from the wells, a sign of fresh water flowing only from the source.

Ancient Hangzhou was located on the coast, and the Qiantang River's saltwater tides caused the water in its rivers, lakes, and harbors to be very salty. Solving the problem of drinking water for residents was a top priority at the time. Legend has it that over 1,600 years ago in the Eastern Jin Dynasty, a scholar named Guo Pu, skilled in identifying underground springs, dug the first well, attracting residents from far and wide to draw water.

There are more than 20 youth hostels and folk houses around Siyanjing , which is a gathering place for accommodation in Hangzhou. It is very close to Hangzhou's major scenic spots and railway station, and the scenery of mountains and rivers complements each other, which is extremely beautiful.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: less than half an hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well

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

Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well is a historic water well located in Hangzhou, known for its unique structure and the legends surrounding it. It is an important symbol of the local culture and is connected to the tea culture in the area, with the well historically serving as a vital water source for nearby tea farms.

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

Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well is located in the Manjuelong area, which is part of Hangzhou’s West Lake District. You can get there by taxi from the city center, or if you prefer public transportation, take a bus to the West Lake area and walk to the well. It's also accessible on foot for those who enjoy walking through scenic areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The well is open year-round. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquil environment. The area is especially beautiful in spring and autumn when the tea plantations are lush and the weather is pleasant.

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

There is no entrance fee to visit the Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well itself. However, certain nearby attractions like the tea plantations may charge a small fee. Tickets can usually be purchased on-site at these locations, and no online booking is required.

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

No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary for visiting Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well or the surrounding areas. Tickets for attractions such as the tea plantations can be bought on the day of your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visiting Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well and exploring the surrounding tea plantations will take about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you're interested in a longer walk or tea-tasting sessions, you may want to spend around 3 hours in total.

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

The well itself is the main highlight, and the tea plantations around it provide a scenic backdrop. Be sure to explore the surrounding natural areas, which are perfect for photography, and visit the nearby tea shops where you can sample fresh Longjing tea.

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

Guided tours are available in the area, and English-speaking guides can be arranged. Audio guides are also available, with Chinese being the primary language. It is advisable to arrange a guide in advance if you need one in English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are around the tea plantations and the Four-Eyed Well itself. The surrounding hills and natural landscapes offer stunning views of the area, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. The tea fields provide an excellent backdrop for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the well, then take a leisurely walk through the nearby tea plantations. Enjoy a tea-tasting session at one of the local tea houses before continuing your walk to the nearby scenic areas. You can also explore the local markets if you have extra time.

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

Night visits are not typically available for the Four-Eyed Well itself, but the surrounding area is peaceful in the evening for a quiet stroll. There are no light shows or special tours at night, as the area is more of a daytime attraction.

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

The Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially outside of the busy tourist seasons like spring and autumn.

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

There are basic facilities available, including toilets and rest areas. You can find local food stalls and tea houses nearby. Water is available at various points, and small shops sell souvenirs like tea leaves and related products.

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

Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well is located in a natural area with some walking involved, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the area is generally accessible for children, and there are some paved paths for easier access to certain parts of the site.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in the area. Credit cards may also be used at larger tea shops and facilities. It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions or food stalls.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby, you can find a number of tea houses offering local Longjing tea along with traditional snacks. There are also several small eateries where you can enjoy local Zhejiang cuisine such as Zhejiang-style dumplings or noodles.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are readily available in the tea houses, especially since Longjing tea and local vegetable dishes are common. Halal options are not common in the immediate area, but more variety can be found in Hangzhou city center.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses in the West Lake area that are a short drive from the Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well. For more luxury accommodations, you can stay in downtown Hangzhou and travel to the well via taxi or public transport.

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

Nearby attractions include the famous West Lake, Longjing Tea Plantations, and Lingyin Temple. These can be easily combined into a day trip, as they are all located within a short distance of the Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops nearby selling local tea products, tea accessories, and handmade crafts. Longjing tea is a popular souvenir, along with small pottery items and traditional Chinese tea sets.

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

After visiting Manjuelong Four-Eyed Well, taxis are the most convenient option to continue your trip to other attractions like West Lake or Lingyin Temple. Public buses also run to these areas, or you can take a bike for a more leisurely exploration of the surroundings.