Introducing Zhuge Bagua Village
Zhuge Village, Lanxi City, is located in Lanxi City in the central and western part of Zhejiang Province, 18 kilometers away from the urban area. There are more than 4,000 descendants of Zhuge Liang living in the village, making it the largest settlement of Zhuge Liang's descendants in the country.
The overall structure of Zhuge Village was designed and laid out by Zhuge Dashi, the 27th generation descendant of Zhuge Liang, according to the Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams. The entire village is centered on the bell pond, with eight alleys radiating outward to form the inner Bagua. Even more magical is that eight hills outside the village surround the entire village, forming the outer Bagua. The village is dominated by Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings, and there are more than 200 well-preserved ancient houses and halls from the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
The village's landscape is diverse and beautiful, with rows of ancient buildings and an ancient commercial center built around a pond, forming a richly varied yet unified whole. Despite centuries of development, the village's layout, known as the Nine Palaces and Eight Diagrams, has remained unchanged. Its architectural style, characterized by "blue bricks, gray tiles, horse-head walls, thick beams, stout columns, and small boudoirs," makes it one of the best-preserved ancient villages in the country, boasting the largest and most diverse collection of structures and rich cultural heritage.
Climate and best time to travel
The best time to travel is in spring and autumn
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
Tickets
100 yuan/person
Attraction opening hours
Summer: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Winter: 8:00-16:30
Most Popular FAQs for Zhuge Bagua Village
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Zhuge Bagua Village is famous for its unique octagonal layout, designed based on the principles of Chinese geomancy. Built during the Ming Dynasty, it was the home of the Zhuge family, renowned for their military strategist heritage. The village is significant for its preservation of traditional Chinese architecture and culture, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient life and customs.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Zhuge Bagua Village is located in Jinhua, Zhejiang Province, in eastern China.
- You can reach the village by taking a bus or taxi from Jinhua City. It is about a 1-hour drive from the city center.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Zhuge Bagua Village is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- The best times to visit are in spring and autumn, when the weather is mild, and the area is less crowded.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
The entrance fee for Zhuge Bagua Village is typically around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to the village, and it is not necessary to buy tickets in advance.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Tickets do not need to be booked in advance, and you can purchase them on-site during your visit.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
You can explore Zhuge Bagua Village in about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend visiting the temples and walking around the village.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- The central octagonal layout of the village, a rare example of traditional Chinese town planning.
- The Zhuge Bagua Temple, a historical site that offers insight into local spiritual practices.
- The surrounding countryside, providing scenic views of the village and the natural beauty of the region.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Mandarin Chinese. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it’s advisable to check in advance if you need an English-speaking guide.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- The highest points in the village offer panoramic views of the entire area and the surrounding landscape.
- Photography enthusiasts will find the traditional buildings, narrow alleys, and the layout of the village itself to be visually striking.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start by visiting the village entrance and the central area to get a feel for the layout.
- Then, head to the Zhuge Bagua Temple for a deeper understanding of the village’s cultural significance.
- Explore the surrounding streets and take time to photograph the ancient buildings and scenic spots.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits or light shows are not typically offered at Zhuge Bagua Village, but special tours or events may be held during certain festivals.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- The village can get crowded during public holidays and weekends. For a quieter experience, try to visit on weekdays or during off-peak seasons, such as late autumn or early spring.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available within the village.
- There are small shops selling local snacks, souvenirs, and traditional crafts, but options for full meals are limited.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
The village has some uneven terrain, which might make it difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. However, the main areas are accessible for most visitors, including children.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used in the area. Credit cards are typically not accepted.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- There are a few small local eateries in the vicinity of Zhuge Bagua Village that serve traditional Zhejiang cuisine.
- For more dining options, you can head to Jinhua City, which offers a broader range of restaurants.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are available, especially in the restaurants catering to local traditions. Halal food is less common, and you may need to look for options in larger cities like Jinhua.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in the area around Zhuge Bagua Village.
- For more luxurious stays, you can find higher-end hotels in Jinhua City, about an hour away by car.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Nanxi River Scenic Area, a beautiful natural landscape perfect for a day trip.
- The Jinhua World Trade Center and nearby temples in the city can be explored in combination with the village.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Souvenir shops in the village sell traditional crafts such as handmade pottery, textiles, and local snacks.
- Typical souvenirs include small statues, incense holders, and tea sets inspired by local culture.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxis or local buses are available to take you to nearby attractions or back to Jinhua City.
- For further travel, the Jinhua Railway Station or bus stations provide connections to other cities in Zhejiang Province.
