Monkey Island

Introducing Monkey Island

Monkey Island, also known as Osmanthus Island, is a major island in the Monkey Kingdom of the Yunmeng Islands in Qiandao Lake. It is composed of more than ten emerald islands of various sizes and is divided into three tourist areas: Yuanren Village, Science Gallery, and Monkey Art Garden. In Yuanren Village, you can have close contact with monkeys and have endless fun; in the Science Gallery, you can learn about primates and broaden your horizons; in the Monkey Art Garden, you can observe monkey training skills and unique monkey culture.

Guihua Island boasts three key features. First, the scenic trails are tailored to the terrain and the terrain, cleverly utilizing the rocks on either side as barriers, creating a sense of hopelessness . Second, the vast expanse of wild osmanthus trees, growing from the cracks in the rocks, demonstrates its robust vitality. Third, the karst landforms, formed through eons of rain and erosion, are a masterpiece of nature's uncanny craftsmanship.

In 1985 , the Shanghai Institute of Physiology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Qiandao Lake Forest Farm cooperated to successfully breed monkeys in the scenic Yunmeng Islands of Qiandao Lake using the water trapping method and a breeding method that combined natural grazing and artificial feeding.

So far, Monkey Island has released 95 Guangxi rhesus macaques, 34 red-faced short-tailed macaques, as well as long-tailed macaques, crab-eating macaques, bear macaques, flat-topped macaques and other species. It has bred more than 350 baby monkeys of various species, forming six monkey groups of varying sizes, which are spread across large and small islands of the Yunmeng Archipelago.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

Tickets are included in the Thousand Island Lake Scenic Area ticket

Take Line A cruise from the Central Lake District Tourist Wharf to the scenic spot . In summer, Line A cruise tickets start selling at 7:00 and depart at 8:00 ; in winter, Line A cruise tickets start selling at 8:00 and depart at 9:00.

Attraction opening hours

8:00-16:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Monkey Island

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

Monkey Island, located in Hangzhou, is known for being home to a large population of wild monkeys. It has become a popular tourist attraction, offering a chance to observe and learn about these fascinating creatures. The island is significant for its conservation efforts and is often associated with Chinese folklore and wildlife preservation.

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

Monkey Island is located on the Xixi Wetlands in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. You can reach it by taxi from Hangzhou city center, or you can take a bus to the nearby Xixi Wetlands Scenic Area, and from there, a short boat ride will take you to the island.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The island is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the monkeys are most active. Avoid weekends and public holidays when it can be crowded.

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

The entrance fee is typically around 60 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the Xixi Wetlands Scenic Area or through online platforms that offer pre-booking options.

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, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking 1-2 days ahead should suffice.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can expect to spend about 2-3 hours on the island, including the boat ride and time spent observing the monkeys and exploring the natural surroundings.

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

The main highlight is the island itself, where you can observe the monkeys in their natural environment. Additionally, the boat tour around the island offers scenic views of the Xixi Wetlands and nearby nature reserves.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, but if you require an English-speaking guide, it is recommended to arrange one in advance. Audio guides may be available in Mandarin, so preparing ahead with a translation app could be useful for non-Mandarin speakers.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are along the boat tour, where you can capture the natural beauty of the wetlands and the monkeys. The island’s main observation areas also offer great photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the boat tour to the island, spend time observing the monkeys, and take a stroll along the designated trails. Make sure to stop at various viewing platforms to enjoy the best views of both the monkeys and the surrounding wetlands.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at Monkey Island. The best experience is during the day, as the monkeys are most active in daylight.

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

Monkey Island can get crowded during weekends and Chinese public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays or early in the morning on weekends.

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

There are basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. However, food options are limited, so it is advised to bring your own snacks or visit nearby cafes in Hangzhou after your visit.

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

The island is relatively accessible for children and elderly visitors, but there are some uneven paths. For disabled visitors, the boat ride and terrain might present challenges, so it's best to check accessibility beforehand.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are accepted. Credit cards are not widely used on the island.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no significant restaurants on the island, but you can find local eateries offering Zhejiang cuisine in the nearby Xixi Wetlands area and Hangzhou city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at local restaurants around the Xixi Wetlands and in Hangzhou. Halal options might be limited, so it's a good idea to plan ahead if necessary.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near the Xixi Wetlands area, including both luxury and budget options. Staying in Hangzhou city is also a good choice, with plenty of accommodations available to suit various preferences.

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

Nearby attractions include the Xixi Wetlands, which is a beautiful nature reserve, and the West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Both can be easily combined with a trip to Monkey Island for a full day of sightseeing in Hangzhou.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

You can find small souvenir shops near the entrance selling items such as postcards, stuffed animals, and other monkey-themed memorabilia.

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

After visiting Monkey Island, taxis or local buses can take you to other nearby attractions like Xixi Wetlands or West Lake. You can also take public transportation back to Hangzhou city center.