Nine Creeks Smoke Trees

What are the most recommended things to do in Nine Creeks Smoke Trees?

Walk along the scenic Nine Creeks trails surrounded by smoke trees.
Photography of colorful foliage, especially in autumn when leaves turn red and golden.
Boating or relaxing near the creeks and small bridges.
Explore traditional gardens and pavilions along the water.
Enjoy local tea houses and cultural performances in the park area.

Introducing Nine Creeks Smoke Trees

Nine Creeks in Misty Trees is located at the foot of Jiguanlong in the mountains west of West Lake. It connects to Longjing Teahouse in the north and the Qiantang River in the south. It is one of the ten new scenic spots of West Lake, commonly known as the "Nine Creeks and Eighteen Streams."

It originates from the foot of Yangmei Ridge on Wengjia Mountain, and converges with Qingwan, Hongfa, Tangjia, Xiaokang, Foshi, Baizhang, Yunqi, Qingtou and Fangjia nine streams along the way, winding and hidden, and finally flows into Qianjiang River.

The term "Eighteen Streams" refers to the numerous small streams and gurgling springs. Nine Streams and Eighteen Streams converge at the foot of Bajue Mountain in front of the Xizhongxi Restaurant. The route is crisscrossed by mountains, dotted with tea plantations, winding paths, flowing water, and the chirping of mountain birds. On clear days, the scenery is breathtaking; on cloudy days, mist and clouds drift.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons, autumn is the best

From mid-to-late October every year, the misty trees along Jiuxi River are already covered with autumn colors. November and December are the most beautiful time of the year, with a vibrant array of colors, earning it the nickname "Little Jiuzhaigou."

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 3-4 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

Most Popular FAQs for Nine Creeks Smoke Trees

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

Nine Creeks Smoke Trees is a historic scenic area in Hangzhou known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The smoke trees, which turn vibrant colors in autumn, symbolize traditional Chinese garden aesthetics and attract visitors for seasonal viewing and photography.

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

Location: Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang.
By bus: Local buses from Hangzhou city center to Nine Creeks area.
By taxi or ride-hailing: Directly accessible from downtown Hangzhou.
Walking: Explore surrounding scenic spots like nearby West Lake after arrival.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours: Typically 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Best times: Late October to early November for peak autumn foliage; spring also offers pleasant greenery.

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

Entrance fee: Approximately 60–80 CNY per adult; discounts for children and seniors.
Tickets can be purchased online via official Hangzhou tourism websites or offline at the park entrance.

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

Advance booking is recommended during peak autumn season, ideally 1–3 days prior to visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours to walk through the main scenic trails and enjoy photography or short boat rides.

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

Smoke tree avenues with colorful foliage.
Nine small creeks with bridges and pavilions.
Traditional garden and pavilion areas.
Photography viewpoints along the creek banks.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese; English-speaking guides may be arranged in advance. Audio guides are generally not offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Along the main smoke tree trails in autumn.
Overlooking the creeks and small bridges.
Near traditional pavilions and garden areas.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Entrance → Smoke tree trail → Creek-side pavilions → Main viewpoints → Garden areas → Exit.

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

Night visits are limited; special seasonal events may occur but generally no regular light shows are offered.

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

Peak season: Autumn weekends and public holidays.
Least crowded: Weekdays and early mornings.

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

Public toilets near entrance and main trails.
Small restaurants and tea houses nearby.
Benches and rest areas along the trails.
Limited souvenir shops near the entrance.

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

Most areas are accessible; some trails may be uneven, requiring caution for elderly or disabled visitors. Children should be supervised along water areas.