Tongwu outside the painting

Introducing Tongwu

Waitongwu Village, located in Xihu District of Hangzhou, has a beautiful nickname "Tongwu outside the Painting". As the name suggests, this is a place closely related to painting and art. It is this unique artistic atmosphere that makes the beauty of Waitongwu Village unique.

Waitongwu Village, after deciding in 2009 to develop into an arts and cultural town, underwent three years of renovation and was included in Hangzhou's first batch of towns in 2011. In September 2013, it successfully applied for national 3A-level tourist attraction status. Currently, the village is working towards achieving national 5A-level status, in conjunction with the development of Longwu Tea Town. Currently, the village has attracted approximately 90 studios, representing 60% of the village's farmers.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a typical subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons and abundant rainfall.

The weather is pleasant in spring and autumn, making it the golden season for sightseeing.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

After being designated as one of the first "character towns" in Hangzhou in early 2010, it has formed six functional areas, including a farmhouse leisure and entertainment area with the main forms of "farmer's pomegranate village + historical and cultural village + art and creative village", a resident life and leisure area, a pomegranate picking experience area, a tea garden sightseeing area, a tea art experience area and an art and culture area.

Attraction opening hours

Open all year round

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Most Popular FAQs for Tongwu outside the painting

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

Tongwu Outside the Painting is an area that blends traditional Chinese art with natural beauty. It is famous for its cultural heritage, where art and nature come together. The place is significant for its historical connection to local painters and scholars who once frequented the area to find inspiration from the stunning landscape.

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

Tongwu Outside the Painting is located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. It is easily accessible by taxi or private transport from downtown Hangzhou, which takes about 30-40 minutes. Public transport options include buses, but they may require multiple transfers. Walking around the site is the best way to explore the art and nature.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months, when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends and holidays.

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

The entrance fee is around 40-60 RMB, and tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through various online platforms for ease of booking, especially during peak seasons.

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

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (holidays, weekends) to avoid long waits. Booking a few days in advance is ideal for a hassle-free visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically spend around 2-4 hours exploring Tongwu Outside the Painting, depending on how much time is dedicated to appreciating the art, walking trails, and taking photographs. A leisurely visit can extend to half a day.

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

The main highlight is the beautiful landscape that inspired many traditional Chinese paintings. The walking trails that weave through the site offer scenic views and peaceful surroundings. The art exhibits and calligraphy collections are also key attractions.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in Mandarin may be available, and English-speaking guides can be arranged upon request, though it is advisable to book them in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the viewpoints along the walking trails, overlooking lush landscapes and traditional Chinese gardens. The lakes and ponds also provide stunning reflections, perfect for capturing the essence of the place.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended route is to start by exploring the main art exhibition area, then proceed to the walking trails that lead to the scenic spots. Make sure to take time to appreciate the landscape and artwork along the way before heading to the central area for a relaxing break.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available at this site, as it is primarily a daytime destination. However, the serene atmosphere and art exhibitions make it a peaceful and reflective location during the day.

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

The site can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. The best time to visit for a quieter experience is on weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the crowds are thinner.

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

Basic facilities such as public toilets, rest areas, and small shops are available. Food options may be limited to simple snacks and beverages at local stalls. It’s recommended to bring water and light snacks if you plan to spend a longer time exploring the area.

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

The site is moderately accessible, with paved paths for easy walking. However, some areas, particularly the walking trails, may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It’s advisable to check with the management for more specific accessibility needs before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used and convenient. Credit cards may not be accepted in all areas, so it’s best to carry some cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants near the attraction offering traditional Zhejiang cuisine. However, there are limited dining options inside the site itself. For more variety, visitors may need to head to downtown Hangzhou.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some local eateries, and Zhejiang cuisine includes a variety of plant-based dishes. Halal options are more limited, but visitors can find vegetarian dishes suitable for a vegan diet.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a number of hotels in the nearby Hangzhou area, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Staying in the city center offers more accommodation options, with transport available to the site.

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

Nearby attractions include West Lake, the Lingyin Temple, and the Longjing Tea Village. These can easily be combined into a day trip from Tongwu Outside the Painting, offering a rich cultural experience of Hangzhou.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops inside and around the area sell traditional Chinese artwork, calligraphy, and local crafts. Popular items include paintings, tea sets, and silk products.

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

After visiting, taxis and private car services are the best way to continue exploring Hangzhou or head to nearby attractions like West Lake. Public buses are available but may be less convenient for further travel.