Xixi National Wetland Park
Zhejiang Sheng
Xixi National Wetland Park, located in western Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, covers approximately 1,150 hectares and features six main watercourses with ponds, lakes, and swamps. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including over 220 species of vascular plants and nearly 90 bird species, making it a vital ecological area known as the "Green Lung in Paradise." The wetland has a deep cultural significance, being the birthplace of Chinese South Opera and hosting traditional dragon boat contests. Historically, it has been a site of human settlement since the Liangzhu Culture period over 4,000 years ago, evolving through the Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. The park preserves traditional water village life with activities such as silkworm feeding and silk production. Since 2003, after facing industrial contamination, Xixi Wetland has been protected as China's first national wetland park, dedicated to conserving its wildlife and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore ancient villages, enjoy diverse flora and fauna, and experience a landscape that inspired many classical Chinese poets and artists.
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Tip: The best time to visit Xixi National Wetland Park is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance through the official website or authorized vendors to avoid queues. Visitors can benefit from discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours are available to enrich the experience by explaining the park's ecological and cultural significance. Early morning visits offer better chances to observe birdlife and enjoy tranquil waterways.
Interesting facts
- •Xixi Wetland is home to 221 species of vascular plants and nearly 90 bird species, accounting for almost half of all bird species in Hangzhou.
- •The park contains 2,802 ancient persimmon trees, some several centuries old.
- •It is the original site of Chinese South Opera and hosts traditional dragon boat contests annually.
- •During the Southern Song dynasty, Emperor Gaozong Song planned to establish Xixi Wetland as the capital and used it as an important military and transportation area.
- •The park is often called "The Green Lung in Paradise" due to its ecological importance and air purification function.
History
Xixi Wetland's history dates back over 4,000 years to the Liangzhu Culture, with early settlements appearing during the Han and Tang dynasties.
The Southern Song dynasty marked significant development when Emperor Gaozong considered it as a potential capital and established a royal river road.
Throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties, local governance focused on flood control and agricultural activities like silkworm farming.
In the 20th century, industrialization threatened the wetland's environment, prompting the initiation of protection projects in 2003, leading to its designation as China's first national wetland park.
Place Guide
Ancient Villages
Explore the four ancient villages within the park-Xixi Cultivate Cultural Village, Wu Chang Cultural Village, Xixi Art Village, and Xixi Citizen Village-that preserve traditional Chinese culture and heritage.
Wetland Waterways
The six main watercourses form a network of ponds, lakes, and swamps, offering scenic boat rides and opportunities for birdwatching and observing aquatic life.
Flora and Fauna
The park hosts a diverse range of plant species including persimmons, willows, camphors, bamboo, mulberries, and lotus flowers, alongside rich birdlife such as little egrets, wild geese, kingfishers, and mallard ducks.
Contact
Phone: 0571 8810 6789