Introducing Su Causeway Spring Dawn
Su Causeway, commonly known as Sugong Causeway, is the first of the "Ten Scenic Spots of West Lake". It starts from the foot of Nanping Mountain in the south and ends at the foot of Qixia Mountain in the north, with a total length of nearly three kilometers.
It was built by Su Dongpo, a great poet of the Northern Song Dynasty, when he was the governor of Hangzhou. He used the excavated water hyacinth mud to build it. It divides the West Lake into two parts, the inner and the outer parts.
There are six bridges on the embankment: Yingbo, Suolan, Wangshan, Yadi, Dongpu and Kuahong, which are simple and beautiful.
The beauty of Su Causeway lies not only in the fact that it passes through the beautiful West Lake, but also in the fact that it is planted with graceful camphor trees and other plants, making it an evergreen causeway all year round.
Climate and best time to travel
Suitable for all seasons, spring is the best
As soon as spring arrives, peach blossoms bloom on the embankment and the trees sprout new leaves, creating a lively scene. Coupled with the gentle spring breeze, it is refreshing.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
Tickets
free
Attraction opening hours
All day
Most Popular FAQs for Su Causeway Spring Dawn
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Su Causeway is a famous scenic feature of West Lake in Hangzhou, built during the Northern Song Dynasty. It was created by the poet and governor Su Dongpo to improve flood control while enhancing the lake’s beauty. "Spring Dawn on Su Causeway" is one of the Ten Scenes of West Lake, celebrated for its picturesque morning views and seasonal flowers.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located along West Lake in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.
- Accessible by Hangzhou Metro: Line 1 to West Lake Cultural Square, then a short walk.
- Bus options: Multiple buses stop near Su Causeway; check local routes.
- Taxi or ride-hailing services provide direct access.
- Walking or cycling around West Lake is popular for exploring the causeway and surroundings.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Open 24 hours; daytime is best for sightseeing.
- Spring (March to May) is the prime season for flowers and greenery.
- Early morning provides serene views with fewer tourists.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Su Causeway itself is free to walk.
- Tickets may be required for other West Lake scenic zones nearby; can be purchased online or at ticket counters.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
For Su Causeway, advance booking is not needed. For nearby West Lake attractions, book a few days ahead during peak tourist season.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- 1–2 hours to stroll along the causeway and enjoy the scenery.
- Half a day if including nearby attractions or a boat ride on West Lake.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Early morning views of the causeway lined with willow trees and spring blossoms.
- Views of Broken Bridge, Huagang Park, and Leifeng Pagoda from the causeway.
- Flower beds and seasonal blooms along the path.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
- Guided tours are available in Mandarin; English tours can be booked through travel agencies.
- Audio guides may be available for larger West Lake scenic areas, typically in Mandarin and English.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Near the center of the causeway for panoramic lake views.
- Looking back towards the city from the causeway for sunrise shots.
- Along tree-lined sections with flowerbeds in bloom.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at Broken Bridge, walk the length of Su Causeway, enjoy viewpoints, then return or connect to other West Lake attractions.
- Optionally include a short boat ride for a different perspective.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Night walks are allowed; some areas may have soft lighting but no major light shows on the causeway.
- Special guided tours may be available in peak seasons.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Busy during national holidays and weekends.
- Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public toilets and seating areas along the causeway and West Lake paths.
- Nearby cafés, snack stalls, and restaurants.
- Souvenir shops around major West Lake entrances.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- The causeway is flat and paved, suitable for elderly, children, and wheelchair users.
- Some areas may have gentle slopes.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Most shops and restaurants accept mobile payments (WeChat, Alipay) and cards.
- Carrying some cash is recommended for small vendors.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- West Lake waterfront restaurants offering Hangzhou cuisine.
- Cafés and tea houses near Broken Bridge and along Su Causeway.
- Street food vendors at entrance areas.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
- Vegetarian options available at tea houses and restaurants.
- Halal options are limited; check specific restaurants in Hangzhou city.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Hotels near West Lake, ranging from budget to luxury.
- Guesthouses and boutique inns with lake views.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Broken Bridge, Leifeng Pagoda, and Huagang Park.
- Lingyin Temple and Longjing Tea Plantations.
- West Lake boat tours and scenic walking paths.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Tea products, silk items, postcards, and local handicrafts.
- Souvenirs themed around West Lake and Hangzhou culture.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Walk or bike along West Lake to other scenic spots.
- Taxi or ride-hailing services to city center or Lingyin Temple.
- Public buses connect to nearby attractions and Hangzhou train stations.