Lin Haiting, a tranquil scenic spot in Hangzhou, is known for its beautiful lake views, lush greenery, and ancient architecture. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks around the serene environment, boat rides on the lake, and visit historical temples scattered throughout the area. It is also a great spot for photography, especially during the early morning or sunset when the natural light enhances the landscape's beauty.

Linhai Pavilion, located within the Nine Creeks and Eighteen Streams, is an open pavilion built in the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China as a resting place for tourists. On the pavilion, an ancient couplet is inscribed: the first line reads, " A short stay is best , and let's go have some Zhaozhou tea ," and the second line reads, " Returning home at daytime can be slow, let's sing together as the flowers bloom on the roadside . " This ancient couplet aptly captures the Hangzhou spirit of " Zen, tea, music, water, fragrance, flowers, and opera . "
Six murals within the Linhai Pavilion narrate the " Legend of Wulong . " Rest within the pavilion and admire the surrounding scenery, appreciating the unique charm of Jiuxi.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than half an hour
free
All day
Lin Haiting is a historical area in Hangzhou that dates back centuries, renowned for its classical Chinese garden design and cultural heritage. It is significant for its connection to the Song Dynasty and for being a peaceful retreat for scholars and artists. The tranquil lake and surrounding temples add to the area's spiritual and historical significance.
Lin Haiting is located in the northern part of Hangzhou, near the West Lake area. It is easily accessible by taxi, public buses, or walking from nearby areas like the West Lake Scenic Area. The nearest metro station is the Longxiangqiao Metro Station, from where you can take a short taxi ride or walk to the destination.
Lin Haiting is open year-round, with the best times to visit being during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the foliage is particularly beautiful. The park is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, with early morning visits offering a peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
The entrance fee for Lin Haiting is around ¥20-¥40. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through various travel platforms. It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance during peak seasons to avoid long queues.
Booking tickets in advance is not always necessary, but it is recommended during peak seasons or weekends. Booking a few days in advance is generally enough to secure your visit.
A visit to Lin Haiting typically takes around 2-3 hours. This allows for a leisurely walk around the lake, visits to the temples, and time to relax in the garden areas.
The must-see highlights include the tranquil lake with its surrounding gardens, the ancient temples, and the picturesque walking paths. The pavilion overlooking the lake provides stunning views, especially during sunset. The nearby tea plantations are also worth a visit if you have time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides may also be arranged. Audio guides in multiple languages are available at the entrance for self-guided tours.
For the best views, head to the pavilion by the lake for panoramic shots of the surrounding landscape. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for photography, particularly at the lake and temple areas.
Start by walking around the lake, enjoying the peaceful scenery. Then visit the temples along the path and explore the surrounding gardens. If you have time, visit the nearby tea plantations or take a boat ride on the lake for a different perspective of the area.
Lin Haiting does not currently offer night visits or light shows. It is primarily a daytime destination where visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty.
Lin Haiting can get crowded on weekends and public holidays, particularly during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn). The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially during off-peak seasons.
There are public toilets available throughout the site, as well as rest areas where you can relax. There are a few local food stalls near the entrance, but more dining options can be found in the surrounding areas of Hangzhou. Water and snacks are available for purchase on-site.
Lin Haiting is generally accessible for elderly and children, with paved walking paths and rest areas. However, some of the temples and lake areas may require climbing stairs, so it's best to check the terrain in advance if you have mobility concerns.
Mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted, and credit cards may be accepted at some places. It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or if mobile payments are not accepted in all areas.
There are a few small local restaurants near the entrance, offering traditional Hangzhou dishes and tea. For more dining options, head to the city center where there are a variety of restaurants serving Chinese and international cuisines.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some local restaurants near Lin Haiting, though they may be limited. Halal food is more readily available in the city center of Hangzhou.
There are several hotels near Lin Haiting, including mid-range options like the Hangzhou YMCA International Youth Hostel and upscale hotels in the West Lake area, such as the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou and the Grand Hyatt Hangzhou.
Nearby attractions include the famous West Lake, Leifeng Pagoda, and the Longjing Tea Village. These sites are all within a short distance and can be easily combined into a day trip.
There are small souvenir shops around the entrance selling local handicrafts, tea, and postcards. Typical souvenirs include Hangzhou’s famous Longjing tea, silk products, and traditional Chinese art pieces.
Taxis and public buses are the most convenient options to continue your trip after visiting Lin Haiting. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Didi for more flexibility. If you're staying in Hangzhou, a short taxi ride will take you to other major attractions like West Lake.