Photo provided to Hangzhoufeel
Places
By Zhu Jingning
Every summer, Hangzhou transforms into a poetic realm adorned with lotuses. The blooming typically begins in June, with the prime viewing period from mid-June to late August, and there is no better time than now to enjoy the delicate beauty of budding lotuses at the recommended locations.
Daily best hours
6:00am-8:00am: Petals glisten with dewdrops under the morning sun.
1 hour after rain: Lotuses appear exceptionally vibrant adorned with shimmering droplets.
5:00pm-7:00pm: Sunset bathes the flowers in golden light, creating a magical ambiance.
Top Lotus Viewing Spots
1. West Lake Scenic Area
Access: Take Metro Line 1/2 to Fengqi Road Station, then take a 20-min walk or 5-min bike ride.
Quyuan Fenghe (Breeze-Ruffled Lotus at Quyuan Garden):
Hangzhou’s classic lotus destination boasts vast plantings of rare varieties (white, red, and double-petaled). Strolling on its artistic bridges is soothing amidst a sea of leaves and fragrant blooms.
Broken Bridge to Beishan Street:
From the Broken Bridge westward to the Xiling Bridge (near Xinxin Hotel), find the lake’s densest lotus concentration. Iconic bridges and pavilions frame stunning photos, especially in soft morning or evening light.
Pinghu Qiuyue (Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake):
This “Top Ten” vista offers panoramic views. Stand by Bai Causeway for breathtaking “endless green leaves meeting the sky” scenery, equally captivating by day or at night.
Back hill of Gushan:
Expansive waters are home to spectacular swathes of vibrant West Lake Red Lotuses, creating a “burning sea” effect.
2. Xianghu Lake Scenic Area --Lotus Villa
Access: Take Metro Line 1 to Xianghu Station, then hop on a bus or a taxi.
Lotus Villa (Hehuazhuang) features elegant pavilions amidst swaying blooms. For immersion, rent a paddle boat to drift among the blossomsat Shilihexiang in Phase 3 zone of Xianghu Lake --boatmen may even present you lotus leaves or seedpods as souvenirs!
3. Xixi National Wetland Park
Access: Take Metro Line 3 to Xixi Wetland South, then take a 5-min walk.
Visit Dongguan Lotus Pond with varieties like Weishan Red and Space Lotus. Climb Buyun Pagoda for a bird’s-eye view, and watch for the rare twin-lotus bloom!
4. Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City
Access: Take Metro Line 2 to Liangzhu Station, then transfer to bus or taxi.
Combine lotus appreciation with the site’s profound Neolithic history. With blooms lasting into September, the lotus flower sea concentrates near the West City Wall, South Gate, and Fengshan areas.