
Baguatian Ruins Park, located at the southern foot of Yuhuang Mountain, was once a registered field where the Southern Song emperors personally tilled the land to encourage agriculture . Every spring , the emperors led civil and military officials to plow the fields to show respect for agriculture and pray for a good harvest. Some believe it was the site of a suburban altar for offering sacrifices to heaven and earth, and that the Baguatian site was formally designated as such by the Ming Dynasty.
The best vantage point for overlooking the Bagua fields lies in front of Zilai Cave on Yuhuang Mountain. From this height, the field appears octagonal, with a circular mound in the center, divided evenly into eight sections. The entire field resembles the half-yin, half-yang Tai Chi diagram. Furthermore, each of the eight sections is planted with rice, sugarcane, sweet potatoes, radishes, cabbages, and other crops, each grown according to the hexagram position. Visitors can pick their own crops in the different seasons.
Throughout the year, eight kinds of crops present eight different colors. In spring, you can enjoy rape flowers, and in summer, you can enjoy lotus flowers.
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All day
Baguatian Ruins Park preserves an ancient settlement site in Hangzhou, highlighting archaeological findings from historical periods. It provides insight into local cultural evolution, ancient architecture, and early community life in Zhejiang.
Located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang. Accessible via local bus routes, taxis, or ride-hailing services. Walking is feasible if staying at nearby accommodations.
Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Early mornings on weekdays are the best time to avoid crowds and enjoy a quiet visit.
General admission is free. For special exhibitions or events, tickets may be purchased onsite or online via official park websites.
Booking is generally not required for regular visits. For guided tours or special exhibitions, it is recommended to book 1–2 weeks in advance.
Approximately 1.5–3 hours to walk through the ruins, explore exhibits, and enjoy the park’s natural areas.
Guided tours are offered in Chinese; private guides in English or other languages may be arranged for groups. Audio guides are usually not provided.
Start at the visitor center, follow the marked paths through the ruins, visit exhibition halls, explore the garden and scenic areas, and conclude at any souvenir or special exhibition spots.
Night visits are generally not permitted. Special tours may be arranged for educational groups during the day.
Less crowded on weekday mornings. Weekends and public holidays attract more visitors, including families and school groups.
Facilities include restrooms, benches, drinking water stations, a small café, and souvenir shops.
Most areas are accessible with paved paths and ramps. Elderly visitors, children, and disabled visitors can navigate the main routes comfortably.
Both cash and mobile payments are accepted for souvenirs, food, or special events.
Several local restaurants and cafés nearby offer Hangzhou cuisine, tea, and light snacks.
Vegetarian options are widely available; vegan and halal options may require checking with local restaurants.
Hotels and guesthouses in Hangzhou city center provide convenient access to the park, ranging from budget to mid-range options.
Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, replica artifacts, postcards, and cultural memorabilia.
Taxis, ride-hailing apps, and local buses are convenient for visiting nearby attractions or returning to hotels.