1-Day Hiking Adventure At a Glance

For the most up-to-date details, check Lonely Planet Hangzhou before you go.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou.

The hike is suitable for most fitness levels and ages. It features flat sections mixed with gentle sloping forest paths. You will spend most of your time under a lush canopy. This makes it a great choice even on warmer days.

Most hikers spend about four hours exploring the main route. You can extend your stay by visiting nearby tea villages. The local food in this area is fresh and delicious. It is a perfect way to end your outdoor journey.

Keep your camera ready for the beautiful green tea terraces. The water in the gullies is crystal clear and very refreshing. Many locals come here to enjoy the natural mountain springs. It is truly one of the most serene places in China.

• Day 1: Exploring Tea Fields and Forest Streams
  • Morning: Visit the lush tea plantations.
  • Afternoon: Hike along the mountain streams.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner in Longjing village.

1-Day Jiuxi Eighteen Gullies Hiking Guide Itinerary

Start your morning journey at the southern entrance of the park. The air here is cool and smells like fresh pine needles. You will immediately see the first of many small forest streams. Follow the paved path as it winds deeper into the woods.

This path connects to the famous Longjing tea village walking trails nearby. You will pass several traditional stone bridges during the first hour. The sound of flowing water creates a very relaxing atmosphere. Look out for local birds hiding in the thick bamboo.

By midday, you will reach the heart of the eighteen gullies. The trail opens up to reveal vast fields of green tea. This is the perfect spot to stop for a light lunch. Many small kiosks sell local snacks and bottled spring water.

Finish your hike by walking toward the upper tea village area. The trail becomes slightly steeper but remains very manageable for all. You can see the rolling hills stretching out toward the horizon. The view from the top is absolutely worth the effort.

1. Day 1: A Scenic Journey Through Jiuxi Eighteen Gullies
   • Morning: Trek through the southern forest gullies.
   • Afternoon: Explore the vast Longjing tea terraces.
   • Evening: Relax at a traditional village tea house.
   • Time: Approximately four to five hours.
   • Logistics: Wear waterproof shoes for crossing streams.
   • Optional: Visit the nearby China Tea Museum.

Best Base for Your Hangzhou Hiking Trip

Choosing the right accommodation is vital for a smooth trip. We recommend staying near the western side of the city. It is located near the West Lake free walking route area. This location offers the best access to the mountain trails.

Boutique hotels in the tea villages offer a unique experience. You can wake up to the view of misty mountains. These stays often include traditional breakfast and tea tastings. It is a great way to support the local community.

If you prefer luxury, stay in the central business district. The hotels there provide modern amenities and great city views. You can take a quick taxi to the trailhead easily. This area is also close to many high-end shopping malls.

Budget travelers should look for hostels near the university district. This area has a lively vibe and many cheap eateries. It is well connected by the local bus network system. You can reach the hiking area in about thirty minutes.

Jiuxi Eighteen Gullies Hiking Guide Essential Tips

Proper preparation makes your hiking experience much more enjoyable. Always check the weather forecast before you head out today. Sudden rain showers are common in this mountainous region. Bring a lightweight raincoat just in case the weather changes.

This spot offers some of the best free Hangzhou sunset spots. If you stay late, bring a small flashlight for safety. The stone paths can become slippery when they are wet. Wear shoes with good grip to prevent any accidental slips.

Carry enough water to stay hydrated throughout the entire afternoon. While there are shops, they are sometimes spaced far apart. A small backpack is useful for carrying your personal items. Do not forget to apply sunscreen on sunny days too.

Respect the local environment by staying on the marked trails. Do not pick the tea leaves in the private plantations. Always take your trash back with you to the city. This helps keep the scenic area clean for future hikers.

The Best Seasons for Hiking in Hangzhou

Spring is arguably the most beautiful time to visit Hangzhou. The tea plants are bright green and the air is fresh. You might also enjoy the Maojiabu scenic area visiting guide for more ideas. Flowers bloom all along the forest paths in late March.

Autumn offers cool temperatures and very clear blue skies. The maple trees turn vibrant shades of red and orange. It is the most comfortable season for long distance walking. Crowds are generally smaller than during the spring peak season.

Summer can be very hot and humid in eastern China. However, the forest canopy provides a lot of natural shade. The gullies are among the best free nature parks for families. Playing in the cool stream water is a popular activity.

Winter is quiet and can be quite cold and damp. You might see snow on the tea hills on occasion. The trails are very peaceful during this time of year. It is perfect for those who want total solitude outdoors.

How to Reach the Jiuxi Trailhead Easily

Getting to the trailhead is simple with Hangzhou's public transport. Multiple bus lines stop near the main southern entrance gate. Look for buses heading toward the Zhijiang Road area. The fare is very cheap and the buses are frequent.

You can also use the metro to get closer to nature. Take the line that stops near the Qiantang River bank. From there, a short taxi ride will take you uphill. This is often the fastest way during the rush hour.

Ride-sharing apps are widely used and very convenient for travelers. Simply enter 'Jiuxi' into the destination field of the app. Drivers are usually familiar with the popular hiking start points. It is a stress-free way to reach the mountain trails.

If you are staying nearby, consider renting a public bicycle. Hangzhou has one of the best bike-sharing systems in China. Cycling along the river toward the gullies is very scenic. It is a fun way to start your day's adventure.