Autumn Whispers: At Jiuxi Eighteen Streams in Hangzhou, I Found Maple Scenery More Beautiful Than Kyoto's

Autumn Whispers: At Jiuxi Eighteen Streams in Hangzhou, I Found Maple Scenery More Beautiful Than Kyoto's

Every time I hear about going to Japan to see autumn leaves, I want to laugh—that's because you haven't been to Jiuxi Eighteen Streams in Hangzhou.

Last Wednesday, taking advantage of fewer people on a weekday, I went to Jiuxi again. Turning from Zhijiang Road into Jiuxi Road felt like crossing two seasons. The city is still green, but the sweetgum and Japanese maple here are already boldly red. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the stone path. Stepping on the fallen leaves, the rustling sound is crisp and pleasant.

Three Hiking Routes, Three Autumn Experiences

If this is your first time, I recommend three easy-to-walk routes I tested myself:

· Easy version: Jiuxi Bus Stop → Jiuxi Yanshu → Jiuxi Eighteen Streams → Longjing Village, about 1.5 hours, gentle slopes, great for photos and leisure
· Classic version: Jiuxi → Eighteen Streams → Longjing Village → Shili Langdang → Meijiawu, about 3 hours with stops, enjoy both tea hills and red leaves
· In-depth version: Jiuxi → Liansi Temple → Yangmeiling → Manjuelong, fewer people and serene scenery, plus you can stop for an osmanthus latte along the way

The Right Way to Explore Jiuxi Eighteen Streams

"Eighteen Streams" doesn’t literally mean there are eighteen streams, but describes the crisscrossing waterways. My favorite part is this section—every few minutes you encounter a small stream with simple, rustic stone pier bridges. The water babbles, red leaves float on the surface, and small fish swim below. The water here is so clear it moves your heart; I couldn’t help but squat down to touch it, cool and refreshing.

The best photo spot is by the pond at "Jiuxi Yanshu." Last week, the maple leaves were perfectly mixed red and yellow, reflected in the water, looking unreal. I suggest going before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m. when the light is soft and reflections clearer.

Local Secrets Only the Locals Know

· Weekday mornings have the fewest people; on weekends, arrive early—before 8 a.m. to have the whole forest to yourself
· The ruins of Liansi Temple are hidden and quiet, with ancient trees and red leaves full of Zen charm
· Stones by the streams are covered with moss and very slippery, so wear non-slip shoes
· When you reach Longjing Village, don’t buy tea at the village entrance; prices are better further inside

Practical Information Card

📍 Address: Jiuxi Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou
🎫 Admission: Free! Free! Free!
🚌 Transportation: Get off at "Jiuxi" stop on routes 4, 308, or 514; parking available at Wuyun East Road parking lot if driving
🍁 Best Viewing Period: Late November to mid-December
📷 Recommended Gear: Non-slip shoes, camera, bottled water, and some snacks for energy

Walking on the maple leaf-covered path, I suddenly understood why Yu Dafu favored Hangzhou’s autumn. This beauty is unpretentious yet deeply moving—it’s the gentle flow of the streams, the graceful fall of the red leaves.

If you want to temporarily escape the noise, try visiting Jiuxi on a weekday. The autumn colors here are waiting for those who truly appreciate them.