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At Xixi Wetland, you can enjoy boat rides through the tranquil waterways, observe a variety of wildlife, and explore the lush landscapes on foot or by bike. The wetland is also home to many traditional Chinese structures, which you can visit. Birdwatching is a popular activity, especially during migration seasons.
Xixi National Wetland Park, located in the western part of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, is a rare secondary wetland within an urban area. Approximately 70% of its surface area is water, with numerous estuaries and scale-shaped fish ponds dotted throughout. This is China's first and only national wetland park integrating urban, agricultural, and cultural wetlands. The wild beauty of the natural wetlands and its rich, ancient cultural heritage imbue this ancient land with a sense of beauty and mystery.
Suitable for all seasons
Enjoy spring outings, water chestnut picking in summer, reed viewing in autumn, and plum blossom viewing in winter. If you enjoy lively festivals, you can choose to watch the dragon boat races held in Shentankou during the Dragon Boat Festival.
Enjoy the pleasant wetland scenery by combining walking trails, rowing boats, electric boats, or ferries. Near Yanshui Fishing Village, the "Xixi Home" exhibit recreates the rural life and work of Xixi's original inhabitants, allowing more people to understand and appreciate the quintessential water town customs. Within the wetland are three ecological protection zones and restoration areas: Feijiatang, Xialongtan, and Chaotianmuyang. Qiuxue'an, Bo'an, Meizhu Villa, and Xixi Thatched Cottage have all served as retreats for numerous literati and scholars throughout history. The ancient stage beneath a century-old camphor tree in Shentankou is said to have been the premiere site for Northern Yue Opera artists.
80 yuan/person
Peak season : April 1st to October 31st every year
Park opening and closing hours: 8:30-17:30 (gate and boat ticket sales stop at 16:30, and visitors are prohibited from entering the park)
Off-season : November 1st to March 31st of the following year
The park is open from 8:30 to 17:00 (gate and boat ticket sales stop at 16:00, and visitors are prohibited from entering the park)
Xixi Wetland is one of the few urban wetlands in China and is an important natural reserve for wildlife. The area has a long history dating back to ancient times, serving as a fishing and farming area. It is significant for its biodiversity and role in conserving local flora and fauna while being a model for sustainable urban development.
Xixi Wetland is located in the western part of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. You can reach it by taxi or bus from the city center. The closest metro station is the Xixi Wetland Station on Line 4, from where you can walk or take a short ride to the main entrance.
Xixi Wetland is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant, and the flora and fauna are at their most vibrant. Summer can be humid, and winter visits might be cold, but it's a quieter time.
The entrance fee is around ¥50-¥80, depending on the areas you plan to visit. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through the official Xixi Wetland website and other platforms.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless visiting during peak seasons (holidays or weekends). Booking a few days ahead is recommended if you plan to visit during busy times.
A visit to Xixi Wetland typically takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend exploring the natural areas, taking boat rides, or visiting the local museums and cultural sites.
Highlights include:
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours can be arranged in English for international visitors. Audio guides may also be available at the entrance in several languages, including Mandarin and English.
Best photography spots include:
A recommended itinerary includes:
Night visits are not typically offered, and there are no regular light shows. However, during special events or festivals, nighttime activities and special tours may be available, so check the calendar in advance.
Xixi Wetland can get crowded, especially during weekends, holidays, and the summer months. Weekdays, particularly in the early mornings or late afternoons, tend to be less crowded.
Facilities include clean toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling snacks and drinks. There are also some local restaurants within and around the wetland, offering traditional Zhejiang dishes.
Yes, Xixi Wetland is accessible for elderly visitors and children, with paved walkways and boat rides suitable for most people. Some areas may be difficult to access for disabled visitors due to the natural terrain.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used and preferred at most locations within the wetland.
Inside the wetland, there are a few local restaurants offering Zhejiang cuisine, including dishes made from local freshwater fish. More options are available in Hangzhou city, which is just a short distance away.
Vegetarian options are available, especially dishes using local vegetables and tofu. Halal options may be limited, so it’s best to check in advance with nearby restaurants.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in the Xixi Wetland area, offering various levels of comfort. For more luxurious accommodations, Hangzhou city provides plenty of options, including international chains.
Nearby attractions include:
There are souvenir shops selling items like local tea, handicrafts, and wetland-themed souvenirs such as small pavilions, paintings, and postcards.
After visiting Xixi Wetland, taxis and buses are the best options to continue your journey. The Hangzhou metro system is also easily accessible from the wetland area to explore other parts of the city.
