
Zhaogong Causeway, also known as Xiaoxin Causeway, is one of the three embankments of West Lake. It was built by the prefect of Lin'an, surnamed Zhao, in 1242 , the second year of Chunyou in the Southern Song Dynasty. It stretches 250 meters from Su Causeway to Quyuan, and is comparable to Lingyin and Tianzhu . It is known as " Flowers and willows on both sides of the bank are like Su Causeway " . Later, the embankment was abandoned, and Jinsha Causeway was built in the Qing Dynasty. It was converted into a road in the Republic of China. The current Zhaogong Causeway was built in 2003 .
Taking a morning stroll along Zhaogong Causeway is like being in a paradise, filled with the fragrance of flowers and the chirping of birds, allowing you to experience the beauty of Hangzhou. This beauty is different from the majestic West Lake, but is more like a garden-like winding path with winding paths.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour
free
All day
Zhaogong Dike is an important historical site, originally constructed to control water flow and protect the surrounding farmland from floods. Over the centuries, it has become a scenic spot, admired for its tranquil environment and historical significance in water management in the region.
Zhaogong Dike is located in the western part of Hangzhou, Zhejiang. You can reach it by taking a taxi or bus from central Hangzhou. The area is also walkable from nearby parks or the riverbank.
Zhaogong Dike is an outdoor site and can be visited at any time. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons, especially to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
There is no entrance fee for Zhaogong Dike. Visitors can enjoy the area freely, though boat rides and certain activities might incur a charge.
No advance booking is necessary. Since the dike is free to visit, there are no ticket reservations required. However, booking a boat ride in advance might be advisable during peak seasons.
You can explore Zhaogong Dike in about 1-2 hours, depending on whether you engage in activities like walking, boating, or fishing.
Guided tours may be available upon request, but there are no regular audio guides offered. If available, the guides are typically in Mandarin, though some may offer services in English during peak tourist seasons.
Start at the dike entrance and take a leisurely walk along the path. Stop to enjoy the view of the river, explore the natural surroundings, and, if desired, take a boat ride. You can also take time to relax by the water or participate in local activities such as fishing.
Night visits are not typically available at Zhaogong Dike. There are no light shows or special tours, as the site is primarily a peaceful outdoor area best enjoyed during the day.
The dike is generally less crowded on weekdays, with weekends being busier. For the most peaceful experience, early mornings or weekdays are ideal.
Basic facilities such as public restrooms and seating areas are available near the entrance and along the path. There are no large food stalls or shops inside, so visitors should bring their own food or drink, especially for longer visits.
The dike is mostly accessible to elderly and children, though some sections of the path may have uneven ground. Visitors with disabilities may need assistance as the terrain can be challenging in certain spots.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely available. Credit cards may not be accepted in many areas.
Nearby restaurants offer local Zhejiang cuisine, including dishes made with freshwater fish and other regional specialties. Cafes are available in the surrounding parks or riverside areas.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some nearby restaurants serving traditional Zhejiang cuisine. Halal food options may be limited, but there are some specialized restaurants in Hangzhou catering to Muslim visitors.
Small local shops around the dike sell souvenirs like local snacks, handmade crafts, and souvenirs related to the area’s natural beauty.