Xianghu Lake
A tranquil, expansive lake park cherished by locals, offering serene walks, panoramic views, and a peaceful escape from city bustle.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Xianghu Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil, expansive lake park cherished by locals, offering serene walks, panoramic views, and a peaceful escape from city bustle.
"Less crowded and more convenient than West Lake, a favorite park for local people."
🚲 Bike Your Way Around
Rent a bicycle to easily navigate the large park and enjoy the scenic routes.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so pack comfy shoes for your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Climb to the viewpoints
Ascend to elevated spots for breathtaking, sweeping vistas of the surrounding city and the tranquil lake.

Lakeside Serenity
Along the lake shore
Enjoy peaceful walks and the open, quiet expanse of this beautiful, expansive lake, a favorite among residents.
Green Spaces and Gardens
Throughout the park
Wander through well-maintained gardens and enjoy the natural beauty of this scenic spot, perfect for relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Prepare for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Bike Your Way Around
Rent a bicycle to easily navigate the large park and enjoy the scenic routes.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so pack comfy shoes for your visit.
West Lake in Hangzhou City, China
Who knows the travel plan of Hangzhou?
🏕️ Picnic & Relax
Bring a tent and enjoy camping or a picnic in the open, fresh air.
📸 Capture the Views
The lake and surrounding landscapes offer stunning photo opportunities, especially from higher vantage points.
any tips for hangzhou?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Bike Your Way Around
Rent a bicycle to easily navigate the large park and enjoy the scenic routes.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so pack comfy shoes for your visit.
🏕️ Picnic & Relax
Bring a tent and enjoy camping or a picnic in the open, fresh air.
📸 Capture the Views
The lake and surrounding landscapes offer stunning photo opportunities, especially from higher vantage points.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Xianghu Lake is praised as a peaceful, less crowded alternative to West Lake, offering beautiful scenery and ample space for relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors appreciate its local charm, well-equipped facilities, and opportunities for biking and picnicking. Some minor construction may be present, but it doesn't detract significantly from the overall tranquil experience.
"It is not as famous as west lake, but a more favorite park for local people. It is less crowded, and more convenient, strongly recommended"
John P
"Nice large lake andante walks and gardens. Construction almost finished.."
Killian McGarry
"Tourism and lots of walking areas"
abdul rauf
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Xianghu Lake is located in the Xiaoshan District. While public transport is available, many visitors recommend renting a bicycle to explore the park once you arrive. Consider using ride-sharing services or local buses to reach the vicinity of the lake.
Reddit users suggest that renting a bicycle is a great way to get around the park itself, often better than dealing with car rentals or parking. Public transport can get you to the area, but biking offers the most flexibility within Xianghu Lake.
Once you're at Xianghu Lake, renting a bicycle is highly recommended for exploring its vast area and scenic paths. This allows you to cover more ground and enjoy the natural beauty at your own pace.
While specific routes can change, local buses do service the Xiaoshan District where Xianghu Lake is located. It's advisable to check real-time public transport apps for the most current routes and schedules.
Parking is generally available, but given the park's size and the recommendation to bike, it might be more convenient to rely on public transport and then rent a bike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Xianghu Lake is often described as a park favored by locals and is generally accessible without an entrance fee, making it a great budget-friendly option.
As a public park, Xianghu Lake is typically open from early morning until late evening, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty throughout the day.
Since it's a public park, there are usually no specific ticket prices or passes required for general entry. Enjoy the natural scenery freely!
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, making it an ideal spot for picnics and leisurely outdoor meals.
While entry to the park is free, there will be a rental fee for bicycles. This is a common practice in many scenic areas to facilitate exploration.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Xianghu Lake offers beautiful lakeside walks, gardens, and opportunities to climb for panoramic city views. It's a peaceful escape with ample space for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Absolutely! The open spaces, walking paths, and natural scenery make it a great place for families to enjoy the outdoors.
Yes, the scenic area is equipped with complete and comfortable toilet facilities, ensuring a pleasant experience for visitors.
The park is a great spot for setting up tents and camping, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
Compared to West Lake, Xianghu Lake is significantly less crowded, offering a more peaceful and local experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic viewpoints offer stunning cityscapes, while the lakeside paths and gardens provide beautiful natural scenery. The tranquil water reflections are also a photographer's delight.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, perfect for capturing the serene atmosphere. Early mornings can also provide soft, diffused light and fewer people.
While there might not be single iconic landmarks like in some other attractions, the expansive lake, the surrounding mountains, and the well-designed gardens offer diverse photographic opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the park to avoid any issues.
Xianghu Lake is ideal for landscape photography, nature shots, and capturing peaceful, serene moments. It's also great for lifestyle and travel photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Families can enjoy picnics, set up tents for a relaxed afternoon, and explore the gardens. The peaceful environment offers a welcome break from more crowded attractions, allowing everyone to enjoy nature and fresh air. The availability of complete toilet facilities also adds to the convenience for families.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
While there's a small cost for bicycle rentals, it's an affordable way to explore the vast area. Bringing your own food and drinks for a picnic further reduces expenses, making it a highly economical yet rewarding experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the serene lakeside, lush gardens, and the interplay of light during sunrise and sunset. The tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty make it an ideal location for landscape, nature, and lifestyle photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Xianghu Lake by Bicycle
Several bike rental stations are available, making it easy to pick up a bike upon arrival. The flat, well-maintained paths are perfect for leisurely rides, offering constant picturesque views of the lake and surrounding greenery. It's an activity that truly enhances the tranquil and open atmosphere of Xianghu Lake, allowing you to discover hidden corners and enjoy the fresh air.
Remember to check if a bicycle rental card system is in place, as suggested by some travelers, which can streamline the rental process and potentially offer access to bikes at various stations around the city, not just at the lake.
A Local's Perspective: Why Xianghu Lake is a Gem
This local favoritism means you're more likely to encounter residents enjoying a quiet stroll, picnicking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty. The infrastructure, including well-maintained toilets, is noted as being very comfortable, reflecting the care locals have for their recreational spaces.
For travelers seeking a respite from bustling tourist crowds and a glimpse into the everyday life of Hangzhou residents, Xianghu Lake offers an unparalleled opportunity. It's a place to breathe deeply, relax, and appreciate the natural landscape without the usual tourist hustle.
Photography Opportunities at Xianghu Lake
The best times for photography are often during the 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon. The soft, warm light during these periods enhances the natural beauty of the lake, gardens, and surrounding hills, creating a magical atmosphere. The calm waters often provide stunning reflections, adding another layer of visual interest to your shots.
Beyond the grand vistas, the meticulously maintained gardens and lakeside paths offer opportunities for more intimate nature photography. Whether you're capturing the delicate details of flora or the expansive beauty of the lake, Xianghu Lake is a photographer's delight, offering a peaceful backdrop for both amateur and professional shoots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit