Xixi National Wetland Park Hangzhou: A Complete Guide to Boating, Birdwatching & Hidden Water Village Trails

Xixi Wetland in Hangzhou is a breathtaking urban wetland park situated in the western part of the city, spanning approximately 11 square kilometers. As one of China's most renowned and well-preserved wetland areas, it is home to a rich diversity of ecosystems, abundant plant life, and over 200 bird species. The wetland’s peaceful canals, lush greenery, and serene environment offer an ideal retreat from the fast-paced city life.

This scenic park is perfect for activities like boating, birdwatching, and walking along nature trails. As you explore, you’ll experience a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Xixi Wetland also plays a crucial role in ecological conservation, acting as a sanctuary for various species and preserving the region’s traditional fishing culture.

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Festivals and Events
Plum Blossom Festival (Mid-February to Mid-March)
The Xixi Plum Blossom Festival marks the beginning of spring at Xixi Wetland. It is a lively celebration of the new year, where visitors can enjoy boat rides to explore the plum blossoms, experiencing both quiet moments and festive excitement. During the festival, tourists can follow specially designed plum blossom routes, exploring different scenic spots to fully appreciate the unique beauty of Xixi's plum blossoms. The main areas for plum blossom viewing include Xixi Meishu, Meizhu Mountain Villa, Meilin Road, and Yan Shui Fishing Village. Special plum blossom-themed packages are available, offering a chance to enjoy Xixi's unique plum-flavored snacks, such as plum blossom cake and plum tea, while enjoying a water-based Yue Opera performance on the boat.

Flower Day Festival (April - May)
The Xixi Flower Day Festival is centered around Xixi Wetland and uses flowers as a medium to showcase the deep cultural significance and unique ecological landscape of the area. Throughout the spring, the green hillsides bloom with a wide variety of flowers, attracting visitors to enjoy the spring weather and flower viewing. As a traditional festival with ancient origins, the Flower Day Festival had been discontinued for a period of time but has been revived in recent years, particularly held at Xixi Wetland. The festival is a vibrant celebration that includes various activities promoting flower culture and the development of the flower industry, such as flower goddess parades, flower appreciation, floral art displays, matchmaking, family activities, and flower markets.

Dragon Boat Festival (June - July)
The Xixi Dragon Boat Festival has a history dating back to the Tang Dynasty, flourishing during the Southern Song Dynasty, and was later officially recognized by Emperor Qianlong when he visited the region, calling it the “Dragon Boat Grand Festival.” Xixi's dragon boat races are unique, with various forms such as "Full Sky Decoration," "Half Sky Decoration," "Bare-Chested Dragon Boats," and "Water-Splashing Dragon Boats," each with its own distinctive style. Unlike other regions where dragon boat races focus on speed, Xixi’s races emphasize performance and display, adding a touch of artistry to the event, and are deeply infused with local cultural characteristics. In 2008, Xixi hosted its first International Dragon Boat Invitational, inviting international teams to compete. The competition features a series of rounds including preliminaries, semifinals, and finals, with teams dressed in full gear and the river resonating with the sound of drums and gongs, creating a lively and exciting atmosphere.

Persimmon Festival (Mid-September to Mid-October)
Autumn is the most beautiful season in Xixi and a time for harvesting, making it the perfect backdrop for the Persimmon Festival. The phrase "Fiery persimmons reflect on the waves of Xixi in autumn" beautifully encapsulates the scenery of this time of year. Xixi’s specialty square persimmons are large, thin-skinned, and full of sweet, fragrant flesh, and they are recognized as one of the six famous persimmons of China. During the Persimmon Festival, visitors can experience the joy of picking persimmons themselves, escaping the hustle and bustle and enjoying a peaceful time in the agricultural countryside. The festival features a variety of activities, including local folk performances, joyful persimmon picking, and the opportunity to "adopt" persimmon trees, offering both locals and tourists a delightful experience.

Reed Festival (November - December)
By November, the 300 acres of reed flowers in Xixi Wetland bloom in a soft white haze, swaying gently in the wind like drifting snowflakes. The late autumn and early winter in Xixi are marked by a tranquil, misty landscape where reeds stand tall against the water, and frosty reflections shimmer in the cold air. This time of year brings an almost poetic atmosphere, with reed flowers and snow-dusted scenery creating a serene, chilly setting. Visiting Xixi at this time offers a peaceful escape close to the city, where you can leisurely sip a cup of fragrant tea, hum a soft tune, and listen to the gentle sounds of water and wild birds. It’s the perfect time to quietly drift along in a boat through the dense reed beds, immersing yourself in the unique charm of Xixi, where "every flowing stream and misty scene" captures the essence of this special place.

Folk Customs and Traditions
Water Town Wedding Customs 
Since ancient times, Xixi Wetland has been a water-rich area with a dense network of rivers and canals, making boats essential for transportation. Traditional wedding customs are deeply tied to water. In the past, the groom would use his own boat to fetch the bride. The wedding procession would be lively, with the bride carried in a flower sedan chair, accompanied by two trumpet players who played festive music. Another boat would follow, carrying the bride’s father and brothers with her dowry and gifts. Once they arrived at the groom’s home, the couple would exchange vows in the presence of family and friends, symbolizing the joining of families. Today, in the Yan Shui Fishing Village area of Xixi Wetland, there is a wedding customs exhibition hall, where a local 18-member performance team reenacts the entire traditional wedding ceremony during holidays, recreating the authentic water town wedding experience.

Wuchang Eighteen Martial Arts
Wuchang Eighteen Martial Arts is a folk martial art that evolved from the practice of ancient weaponry, combining fitness, self-defense, competition, and entertainment. It was created by Hong Zhong, a Ming Dynasty official who retired to his hometown. This martial art has a history of nearly 500 years. The style blends swordsmanship, staff techniques, fist forms, and battle formations, incorporating the unique characteristics of Xixi's water town culture. The techniques are varied, and the forms are rich. In 2011, it was included in China’s third batch of National Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Boat Fist
Xixi Boat Fist is a traditional martial art that was popular in the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, practiced on boats for strength and self-defense. Initially taught by three Shaolin Temple masters who had retreated to the Xixi area, local youth learned the basic movements, and due to the extensive waterways, boats became the ideal training platform. Over time, this martial art developed into the Boat Fist. The martial artists would perform at festivals such as the Lantern Festival and local temple fairs. The performance area was created by placing two wooden boats side by side, covered with thick, high-quality wooden planks to form a stage. The performance was accompanied by drums and wind instruments, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere, often receiving enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Xixi Small Flower Basket
The Xixi Small Flower Basket is a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage item, originating from Old Dongyue Village and the Jiangcun Street area of Hangzhou’s Xihu District. It has a history of more than 150 years, dating back to the late Qing Dynasty. From the 1950s to the early 1980s, the small flower baskets gained great popularity. The baskets, handmade by local women, were bought by the village and sold in cities such as Shanghai and Yangzhou, and even exported to Japan and Southeast Asia. These baskets were sold as souvenirs to pilgrims visiting Hangzhou, and during the house building ceremonies, a string of wealth baskets was hung on the beams of the house for good luck and prosperity. The baskets are made from bitter bamboo, a local material known for its long nodes and strong flexibility, ideal for weaving baskets. There are twelve different types of baskets, including Yuanbao Basket, Copper Basin Basket, and Pentagon Basket. However, the production of these baskets is a complex process involving 12 steps, such as splitting bamboo, coloring, weaving, and trimming, and can only be done by hand. It takes at least half an hour to make one basket. Today, only a few people over 50 years old in Xixi still have the skill to make these baskets. The tradition is generally passed down from mother to daughter, daughter to granddaughter, or from mother-in-law to daughter-in-law.

Best Activities to Do at Xixi Wetland
Boating on the Wetlands
One of the best ways to experience Xixi Wetland is through a serene boat ride along its peaceful waterways. As you glide through the canals, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery, traditional fishing villages, and charming wooden boats, offering a glimpse into the local lifestyle. There are options for both traditional wooden boat rides with local guides who share insights about the wetland's ecology and history, or you can choose self-paddle boats for a more independent adventure. Along the way, you'll enjoy scenic views of the area’s unique landscape, with picturesque quaint bridges and tranquil waters, making it a perfect activity for nature lovers and photographers.

Birdwatching
Xixi Wetland is truly a birdwatcher's paradise, home to over 200 species of birds throughout the year. The park’s diverse ecosystems ranging from wetlands and marshes to reed beds and ponds create an ideal habitat for both resident and migratory birds. The best spots for birdwatching include Xixi Meishu, Meilin Road, and Yan Shui Fishing Village areas where you can spot a variety of species in their natural environment.The best times to visit for birdwatching are during spring and autumn when migratory birds stop by the wetland. Spring brings a variety of bird species returning from their winter migration while autumn is the peak of migratory activity. Keep an eye out for iconic species such as the black-crowned night heron, grey heron, and little egret, which are commonly seen in the park. Early morning and late afternoon are the most active times for birdwatching as many species are more active during these cooler parts of the day.

Persimmon Picking and Persimmon Dyeing
Persimmon picking is a popular activity at Xixi Wetland during the autumn season, when the persimmon trees are heavy with ripe fruit. Visitors can enjoy picking their own juicy persimmons from the trees, an experience that not only connects you to the local farming culture but also provides a great opportunity to taste this sweet and nutritious fruit right from the source. The surrounding area offers stunning views of the wetland, making it a perfect outdoor activity for families and nature lovers.

In addition to persimmon picking, persimmon dyeing is a traditional craft that you can experience in the region. This ancient practice uses persimmon juice to dye fabrics, creating unique, earthy tones that are highly valued for their natural and eco-friendly qualities. Visitors can learn about the history of persimmon dyeing, and even try their hand at dyeing their own cloth during special workshops. This activity offers a deeper understanding of local traditions and sustainable practices, making it a unique cultural experience at Xixi Wetland.

Fishing for Fun
One of the most traditional and playful activities in Xixi Wetland is fishing for fun, where visitors try to catch fish with their hands in the shallow waters. This hands-on experience connects you with the local way of life, especially in an area where traditional fishing practices have been passed down for generations. It’s a fun, family-friendly activity, particularly popular with children and those looking for an immersive outdoor experience. The clear waters and abundant aquatic life make it an ideal spot for this playful pursuit, where the thrill lies in trying to catch slippery fish with your hands, mimicking the traditional fishing methods of the region. It’s a memorable and unique way to connect with nature.

Flora and Fauna of Xixi National Wetland Park
Flora
Xixi National Wetland Park is home to a rich variety of wetland plants, offering a vibrant showcase of plant life throughout the year. The park’s landscape features lush reed beds, lotus flowers, and willow trees, creating a picturesque environment that changes with the seasons. During the summer, the lotus ponds bloom in full glory, their large, delicate flowers standing out against the serene waters. In contrast, the willows provide a graceful, sweeping appearance, especially in the early mornings when the mist settles over the water. The wetland also hosts a range of aquatic plants, such as water lilies and water spinach, which thrive in the rich, nutrient-filled waters of the park.

Fauna
The park is also known for its diverse wildlife, particularly its birdlife. Xixi Wetland serves as an important stopover for migratory birds, with over 200 species of birds, including grey herons, black-crowned night herons, and little egrets, found in the park throughout the year. The wetland is a haven for aquatic species such as fish, frogs, and various insects, all of which play a vital role in the ecosystem. Additionally, small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians thrive in the wetland, contributing to the biodiversity of the park.

Ecological Importance
Xixi Wetland plays a significant role in conserving natural habitats for wildlife, providing a protected environment for both plant and animal species. As an ecotourism destination, it offers visitors a chance to experience nature up close while promoting environmental education and conservation. The park's healthy ecosystem also supports local agriculture, such as traditional fishing and persimmon farming, ensuring a sustainable balance between nature and human activity. By preserving its diverse flora and fauna, Xixi Wetland continues to play a key role in maintaining the ecological health of the region.

"Tonight at Xixi" Performance
Opening Hours: 18:50 - 22:00 (Closed on Mondays)
"Tonight at Xixi" is an immersive performance inspired by the Song Dynasty culture of Xixi Hongyuan, blending art, technology, and environment. It showcases Southern Song aesthetics and Hangzhou's local culture, focusing on the story of Hong Hao, a diplomat of the Song Dynasty, told from the perspective of his son Hong Shi. The performance also highlights the resilience of Hong Hao's wife, Shen, who upheld family traditions while raising three prime ministers for the country. The production combines literature, tourism, art, and technology, using a unique creative concept centered on uniqueness and distinctiveness. Set against the backdrop of Xixi’s waters, it features performance art, music, dance, recitation, and drama, enhanced by high-tech elements like lighting, holographic sound systems, fountains, mist, and projections, seamlessly merging Xixi’s beauty, cultural elegance, and technological innovation to deliver a groundbreaking cultural experience.

Facilities and Services at Xixi National Wetland Park
Visitor Services
Xixi Wetland Park provides a variety of services to enhance your experience. Guided tours are available for visitors who wish to explore the park with a knowledgeable guide, offering insights into the park's ecology, history, and cultural significance. There are also information centers located at key entrances, where you can get maps, brochures, and detailed information about the park. Rest areas are scattered throughout the park, allowing visitors to take a break and enjoy the natural surroundings in comfort.

Restaurants and Cafes
After a day of exploring, visitors can enjoy a relaxing meal at one of the park’s restaurants and cafes. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, there are several options serving local Hangzhou cuisine, light refreshments, and beverages. You can unwind with a cup of tea, a local specialty, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the wetland.

Shopping Opportunities
For those looking to take home a piece of Xixi Wetland, there are various souvenir shops within the park. These shops offer a range of items, from traditional handicrafts and local artwork to eco-friendly products inspired by the wetland’s unique environment. You can also find souvenirs that highlight the park's flora and fauna, making them a perfect reminder of your visit.

Information
Admission: Entrance Fee: CNY 80 / Sightseeing Cruise: CNY 60
Opening Hours: 
Daylight Saving Time (April 1 - October 7): 7:30 AM - 6:30 PM (Last entry at 6:00 PM)
Standard Time (October 8 - March 31): 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM (Last entry at 5:00 PM)
How to get there:
Location
Xixi National Wetland Park is located in the western part of Hangzhou, approximately 15 kilometers from the city center, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
Public Transport
Metro
Line 1: Take Hangzhou Metro Line 3 to “Xixi Wetland South” station (Exit A), then walk about 300 meters to the Zhoujiazui Main Entrance.
Line 2: Take Hangzhou Metro Line 19 to “Xixi Wetland North” station (Exit E2), then walk about 800 meters to the North Gate Entrance.
Bus
Zhoujiazui Entrance (Main Entrance):
Take bus routes 277, 508H, or 526 to “Xixi Wetland Zhoujiazui” station.
East Gate Entrance:
Take bus routes 278 or 83 to “Xixi Wetland East Gate” station, and walk about 500 meters to the entrance.
From the Airport/Train Stations
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport:
Take Metro Line 19 directly to “Xixi Wetland North” station (around 50 minutes).
Alternatively, take a taxi for about 40 minutes, with a fare of approximately 80-100 CNY.
Hangzhou East Station/Hangzhou Station:
Take Metro Line 1, transfer to Line 3, and get off at “Xixi Wetland South” station (around 40 minutes).
Alternatively, take a taxi for about 30 minutes, with a fare of approximately 40-60 CNY.
Self-Drive
Visitors with private transportation can drive directly to the park. Parking is available at the entrances. It's recommended to follow local road signs for easy access, and ensure parking is done at designated areas to avoid any inconvenience.

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