Xiang Lake Park湘湖公园
Xiang Lake is the signature lake of Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou, with roughly 5 sq km of open water and the title of West Lake's sister lake. Its history runs deep: this is where King Goujian of Yue famously 'slept on firewood and tasted gall', and the lake gave its name to the 8,000-year-old Kuahuqiao culture. Quieter than West Lake and far less crowded, it is a favorite escape for locals.
Hangzhou · Visitor Guide2026-10-18
Quick Answer
Is Xiang Lake Park worth visiting?
Hangzhou's second great lake and West Lake's 'sister' — about 5 sq km of water and a 15 km cycling loop. Free entry; the Kuahuqiao museum covers an 8,000-year-old culture. Allow 3-5 hours.
Quick facts
| Ticket | Free admission (some exhibition halls ticketed separately) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open all day (halls roughly 09:00-16:30) |
| Recommended duration | 3-5 hours |
| Best time to visit | Spring flowers and autumn osmanthus; summer boating; winter is quietest |
| How to get there | Metro Line 1 to Xianghu Station, then about a 15-minute walk; or a taxi to Xianghu Huahai stop |
| English signage | Partial |
| Wheelchair accessible | Yes |
| Water area | About 5 sq km |
| Location | Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou |
| Status | West Lake's sister lake; national 4A scenic area |
| History | Where King Goujian of Yue 'slept on firewood and tasted gall. |
| Culture | Namesake of the Kuahuqiao culture (8,000 years old) |
What to expect
Xiang Lake lies in Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou, on a branch of the Qiantang River, and together with West Lake it forms the city's sister lakes. Its roughly 5 sq km of open, clear water is ringed by rolling hills and easy on the eye. The scenic area holds a national 4A rating and takes in Xiang Lake Park, the Kuahuqiao Site Museum, Hangzhou Polar Ocean Park and other sub-attractions. Seven old bridges cross the lake, the most famous being the Yahushan Bridge.
The area's history runs deep — this was the stage of the Wu-Yue rivalry, and King Goujian of Yue is said to have 'slept on firewood and tasted gall' at Yuewangcheng Hill beside the lake, whence the famous idiom. The Kuahuqiao site, discovered in 2001, pushed human activity around Hangzhou back 8,000 years and gave its name to the Kuahuqiao culture. The site, buried beneath the lakebed, yielded treasures including the 'First Boat of China'; the Kuahuqiao Site Museum now stands there, free to the public.
For getting around, cycle the lakeshore (about a 15 km loop) or hop on the shuttle carts (CNY 25 per person, unlimited rides); bikes can be rented by the lake. The Kuahuqiao Site Museum is well worth a look. Climb Yuewangcheng Hill in about 40 minutes on foot for a panorama of the whole lake. For food, try local dishes such as Xiaoshan dried radish, Xiang Lake fish head and braised pork with dried bamboo shoots.
How to get there
Take Metro Line 1 to Xianghu Station, Exit E, and walk about 15 minutes to Xianghu Huahai or the visitor center. From Hangzhou East Station the metro ride is about 50 minutes direct. Buses 705, 716 and 707 also reach the scenic area.
Best photo spots
- Kuahuqiao Site Museum (home of the 'First Boat of China')
- Xianghu flower fields (rapeseed in spring, reeds in autumn)
- Summit of Yuewangcheng Hill (views over the lake)
- Yahushan Bridge (morning mist, sunset)
- Dawn-redwood grove by the lake (autumn and winter color)
Tips
- Crowds are far thinner than at West Lake — even on weekends you can find quiet, a treat for off-the-beaten-path travelers
- The lakeside loop takes 2-3 hours by bike; rentals at the entrance run CNY 30-50 a day
- The Kuahuqiao Site Museum is free but reservation-only, and closed Mondays
- Evening boat cruises can be booked before 16:00 — board at dusk to watch the sunset from the water
- Xiaoshan sits well out from downtown Hangzhou; set aside a full day
Scams to avoid
- Unlicensed cabs tout for fares around the park, claiming they can sneak you in without a ticket — official ticket channels are the only reliable route
- Some farm restaurants by the lake shortchange on portions; confirm prices before ordering
Frequently asked questions
How do Xiang Lake and West Lake differ, and which is more worth it?
West Lake has the fame, the sights and UNESCO status — and the crowds. Xiang Lake is quieter with equally deep history, better for a relaxed outing. They sit about 20 km apart; if time allows do both, otherwise choose West Lake.
Can I take a boat on Xiang Lake?
Yes — electric boats (CNY 60-80 per boat per half hour) and rowed boats (CNY 150 per boat per hour) are available for hire.
Does the Kuahuqiao Site Museum need a reservation?
Admission is free; reserve ahead on the official WeChat account, as numbers may be capped on holidays.
Is there anywhere to stay near Xiang Lake?
The lake has upscale hotels such as Xianghu Yihao and New Century Grand, plus family resorts like New Century Senbo Resort.
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Zhejiang Museum
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Zhejiang Provincial Museum
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