Provincial House

Introducing Provincial House

Shenglu, also known as Zhuyinlu, is located at No. 36 Beishan Street in Hangzhou, nestled against the mountain and facing the lake. Built in 1931, the residence was named after its owner, Wang Fenghao, whose courtesy name was Shengsan. He served as General Manager of the Zhejiang Foreign Affairs Bureau and as Zhejiang Foreign Affairs Commissioner.

Shenglu is a villa modeled after Western architecture, with three buildings in the courtyard. The central building is the main building, with corner towers on either side. It was a pioneer among West Lake villas at the time, displaying a distinctly Western style. The south-facing courtyard is enclosed by a wall with stained glass windows. In the center of the courtyard is a two-story, multi-bay main building, flanked by two corner towers on either side, connected to the main building by verandas, creating a sense of both separation and integration, echoing each other.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 10 minutes

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Provincial House

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

The Provincial House in Hangzhou has been an important political and cultural landmark, serving as a center of governance and decision-making during various historical periods. It highlights the significance of Zhejiang in China's history and serves as a window into the region's political past.

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

The Provincial House is located in the heart of Hangzhou, easily accessible by taxi or bus. The nearest metro station is about 15-20 minutes away by walking. It's also a short walk from other historical sites in the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Provincial House is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. The best time to visit is during weekdays, especially in the mornings, to avoid crowds.

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

The entrance fee is typically around 40-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or in advance online through official tourism platforms or the Provincial House website.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended for special events or peak tourist seasons. You can book online up to a week in advance for convenience.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need approximately 1-2 hours to explore the Provincial House fully, depending on your interest in the exhibits and gardens.

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

• The main hall, which offers insights into the political and cultural significance of the building.
• The historical exhibits showcasing artifacts from the provincial history and the development of Hangzhou.
• The gardens surrounding the Provincial House, providing a serene atmosphere and beautiful photo opportunities.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English-speaking guides upon request. Audio guides are also available for rent in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The main hall’s exterior offers great photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
• The gardens provide beautiful natural scenery, perfect for peaceful photographs.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main hall to understand the historical context, then explore the exhibitions. Finish by taking a stroll through the gardens to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at the Provincial House. However, special tours or events may take place during the year, particularly during festivals.

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

The Provincial House can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially in the off-peak seasons.

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

The Provincial House has clean restrooms and small souvenir shops. There are no food or water facilities inside the site, so it's a good idea to bring water or snacks if needed.

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

The Provincial House is accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, though some areas may have steps or uneven paths. It's advisable to check with the site for specific accessibility details.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted. Credit cards may not be widely accepted, so it's best to have a mobile payment option ready.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several traditional Chinese and vegetarian restaurants nearby. Some local tea houses also offer tea-tasting experiences, which complement the historical and cultural atmosphere of the area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are widely available, especially in the nearby traditional restaurants. Halal options may be limited but can be found in specific areas catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near the Provincial House, including options like luxury hotels and more budget-friendly choices. Staying near West Lake also offers easy access to other attractions in Hangzhou.

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

• West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its scenic beauty.
• Lingyin Temple, another popular historical site in Hangzhou.
• The Hangzhou Museum, providing additional cultural and historical context.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops at the Provincial House selling items like traditional Chinese tea sets, calligraphy scrolls, and Hangzhou-specific crafts.

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

Public transportation, such as taxis or buses, are the best options for continuing your trip. The nearest metro stations and bus stops offer easy access to other major attractions like West Lake and Lingyin Temple.