Play at Hupao Park, stay at Hangzhou Qingtai Bieyuan

Introduction to Hangzhou Hupao Park
Hangzhou Hupao Park, also known as "Hupao Dream Spring," is located at the foot of Daci Mountain southwest of West Lake and is one of the new ten scenic spots of West Lake. It is not famous for grand architecture or vast area, but for its clear and sweet spring water, deep and quiet forest, and rich historical and cultural heritage. It is honored as the "Third Best Spring in the World" (the first two are usually Zhenjiang Zhongling Spring and Wuxi Huishan Spring).

For Hangzhou locals and many tourists, Hupao is not just a park but a tranquil place to "seek springs, taste tea, explore seclusion, and visit antiquities."

Core Highlights and Main Attractions
1. Hupao Spring - The Soul of the Park
The legend of "Hupao Dream Spring": The park's name comes from a beautiful legend. It is said that during the Tang Dynasty, the high monk Xingkong practiced here but was about to leave due to lack of water. In a dream, a divine figure guided him that two tigers would bring the Nanyue Boy Spring. The next day, two tigers were seen digging the ground, and clear spring water gushed out, hence the name "Hupao Spring."

Water quality characteristics: Hupao Spring has a high mineral content and large molecular surface tension. If you gently place a coin in a bowl filled with the spring water, the coin can float on the surface without sinking, creating the unique phenomenon of "water rising to the rim but not overflowing," often attracting visitors to try. The water is clear and sweet, and it is said that "Longjing tea and Hupao water" together form the "West Lake Double Wonders."

2. Li Shutong (Master Hongyi) Memorial Hall
This is the most culturally significant site in Hupao Park. Li Shutong was a pioneer of modern Chinese culture and arts, excelling in drama, painting, calligraphy, music, and poetry. In 1918, he officially became a monk at Hupao Temple, taking the Dharma name Hongyi, later becoming a revered high monk.

Memorial hall contents: The hall displays detailed accounts of Li Shutong’s life, artistic achievements, and Buddhist contributions, exhibiting his manuscripts, letters, seals, clothing, and other precious artifacts. The entire memorial hall has a solemn and respectful atmosphere, inspiring reverence for this legendary master.

3. Jigong Pagoda Courtyard and Jigong Hall
The folk legend of the "Living Buddha" Jigong (Zen Master Daoji) is also deeply connected to Hupao. He once became a monk at Jingci Temple but was buried at Hupao after his passing. The park features:

Jigong Pagoda Courtyard: Contains the pagoda with Jigong’s remains, a place to commemorate this unconventional legendary monk.

Jigong Hall: Houses a statue of Jigong vividly depicting his eccentric image with "torn shoes and hat."

4. Dream Tiger Sculpture
Based on the "Hupao Dream Spring" legend, near the park entrance stands a vivid sculpture group. Master Xingkong is peacefully reclining under the cliff, while two lifelike tigers are digging the ground, with spring water gushing from the tiger’s mouth. This sculpture is the highlight of the park’s theme.

5. Natural Scenery and Atmosphere
Quiet forest: The park is filled with ancient towering trees and babbling streams, creating an extremely serene environment. Even in midsummer, the park remains cool and pleasant. Walking along the stone steps, you can hear birdsong and water sounds, making it an excellent place to escape city noise and enjoy a "forest bath."

Tea tasting and relaxation: The park has a tea house where you can brew a cup of premium Longjing tea with authentic Hupao spring water, personally experiencing the exquisite taste of the "West Lake Double Wonders." This is one of the most authentic experiences when visiting Hupao.

Travel Tips
Best visiting time: Suitable all year round, especially recommended in spring and autumn. Spring is the best time for new tea; autumn offers colorful foliage and pleasant scenery. Summer is a great place to escape the heat.

Must-try activities:

Collect spring water: Many Hangzhou residents bring buckets to Hupao to collect free spring water for making tea at home. You can also bring an empty bottle to taste the sweet spring water.

Float coins: Try the fun of floating coins with spring water at the demonstration spot near the spring.

Taste the double wonders: Sit in the tea house, brew Longjing tea with Hupao water, and enjoy a moment of tranquility.

Suggested itinerary: Hupao Park is not large; a detailed visit takes about 2-3 hours. You can combine it with nearby attractions like Hangzhou Zoo, Manjuelong, and Liuhe Pagoda for a day trip.

Transportation Information:

Bus: Take bus No. 87 from the guesthouse entrance for one stop.

Driving: There is a parking lot at the park entrance, but parking spaces are limited during holidays, so public transportation is recommended.

Tickets: Pay on-site, no reservation needed.

Summary
Hupao Park is a unique attraction combining natural wonders, myth legends, Buddhist culture, and famous historical figures. It lacks the hustle and bustle of West Lake but offers the tranquility and Zen spirit of a remote ancient temple. Whether you come to seek the famous spring, pay respects to the master, or simply find a quiet place to stroll and relax, Hupao Park will not disappoint.

We hope you find the pleasure and peace of "stealing half a day of leisure from life" at Hupao.