
Hongye Bay, Xiaojinshan, is located between the Xiaojinshan Peninsula and the Jinxian Islands in Qiandao Lake, Hangzhou. Because the mountain is covered with maple trees, at this time of year the leaves slowly turn from green to red, and the mountains and islands are full of colorful colors, so it is named " Hongye Bay ". It is one of the best places to enjoy the autumn in Qiandao Lake .
The main bay is V -shaped and about 4 kilometers long. The water in the bay is quiet, the green mountains are reflected, and the scenery is beautiful. The terrain is varied. In addition to numerous islands, there are peaks, valleys, and slopes across it. Therefore, it is also called the " water maze " .
Autumn is the best time to enjoy the red leaves
Red Leaf Bay is renowned for its stunning autumn foliage, particularly the red maple trees. It is a favorite spot for nature lovers, photographers, and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The area offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural exhibits, and outdoor activities.
Red Leaf Bay is located in the outskirts of Hangzhou, Zhejiang. You can get there by taking a taxi or private car from the city center. Public buses also operate routes to the area. Walking from the nearest bus stop to the entrance is easy and takes around 10 minutes.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in autumn, especially from late October to early November, when the red maple trees are at their peak color.
The entrance fee is approximately 40 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through the official website for any special events or guided tours.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak seasons, especially in autumn when the park attracts large crowds. It’s best to book at least a few days in advance if you’re visiting during the fall foliage season.
Typically, it takes about 2 to 3 hours to explore the main areas of Red Leaf Bay, including walking through the park, enjoying the views, and visiting cultural exhibits.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides may be available upon request, especially during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides are also available in Mandarin and English.
The best viewpoints are from the lake’s shore and the walking trails that lead to higher ground. These spots provide panoramic views of the colorful autumn leaves and the surrounding landscapes, making them perfect for photography.
Start by exploring the cultural pavilions near the entrance, then follow the walking trails around the lake. Finish by visiting the best viewpoints for photos, especially near the red maple tree areas.
Night visits are not available, and the park does not offer light shows. However, special cultural performances or events may be held during certain times of the year, particularly during festivals.
The park tends to be crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the autumn season. The least crowded times are on weekdays, particularly in the mornings or late afternoons.
There are public restrooms, food stalls offering light snacks and drinks, and several resting areas scattered throughout the park. There are also souvenir shops selling local crafts and products.
The park is accessible for elderly visitors, children, and those with disabilities. Most of the paths are paved, and there are rest areas throughout the park. Some areas may require a bit more effort to access, but they are manageable for most visitors.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit and debit cards are also accepted at the main facilities. Cash is not commonly required.
There are several restaurants near the park offering both local Zhejiang cuisine and Chinese dishes. Within the park, there are small cafés serving light refreshments.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants, though halal options may be limited in the area around the park.
There are souvenir shops inside and around the park, where you can buy local handicrafts, tea sets, and other traditional Chinese souvenirs, including products related to the park’s natural beauty.
Taxi and public bus services are the most convenient ways to continue your journey. The metro station is also easily accessible from the park, offering a fast route to other parts of Hangzhou.