Hangzhou / Gaozhuang Garden

I feel like I arrived at Gaozhuang at just the right time. I spent about half an hour there, as the scenic area started broadcasting announcements to clear the site due to closing time.

Still, I was lucky enough to capture the sunset at Gaozhuang.

Gaozhuang was the residence of Gao Shiqi, a prominent official during the Kangxi Emperor's reign. It is renowned for its "front mansion, back garden" layout and the exquisite Ming and Qing dynasty official garden style. It also features inscriptions personally bestowed by the Kangxi Emperor.

The place is very quiet and is also known as the "Little Forbidden City of Xixi."

Strolling here gives one a poetic feeling with every step. Hangzhou has many garden landscapes, and compared to the Hu Xueyan Residence, which requires an entrance fee, I think Gaozhuang is a great free alternative. Each has its own charm. Gaozhuang's architecture is more spread out compared to the Hu Xueyan Residence, which feels more compact with everything clustered together. (But of course, the Hu Xueyan Residence is in the city, while Gaozhuang is in the Xixi Wetlands, so there is a difference!)

Post by Lee Lee Sam | Oct 25, 2025