At the Lu You Memorial Hall, visitors can explore exhibits detailing the life and poetry of Lu You, a famous poet from the Song Dynasty. It’s an ideal spot for those interested in Chinese history, literature, and poetry. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area, which was an inspiration for many of Lu You’s poems.

The Lu You Memorial Hall is located in a residential building at No. 98 Haier Lane , Hangzhou . This house was the residence of Lu You, a patriotic poet of the Southern Song Dynasty. Lu You once wrote the famous and immortal poem "Spring Rain in Lin'an" here, " I listened to the spring rain in the small building all night, and sold apricot flowers in the deep alley tomorrow morning ."
The entire exhibition hall is divided into two floors. The first floor is an exhibition room, including the Lu You exhibition area and the literature and history exhibition area; the second floor is a temporary exhibition hall, mainly used for displaying materials and academic seminars.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
free
9:00-16:30, closed on Mondays
The Lu You Memorial Hall honors Lu You, one of China's greatest poets from the Song Dynasty. Lu You’s work is celebrated for its vivid descriptions of nature and his passionate patriotism. The memorial hall showcases his poems, personal artifacts, and the history of his life in Hangzhou, which was central to his inspiration.
The Lu You Memorial Hall is located in the heart of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. It is accessible by bus, taxi, or walking from the West Lake area, which is just a short distance away. The nearest metro station is Line 1’s "West Lake Cultural Square" station, from which it's a 10-minute walk.
The Memorial Hall is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or during weekdays when the crowd is smaller. Avoid weekends and public holidays if possible to avoid larger crowds.
The entrance fee is usually low, around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, but it is also possible to book them online through the official website or third-party ticketing platforms.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless you are visiting during a peak season or public holiday. However, booking a few days in advance can save time and guarantee entry during busier periods.
Plan to spend around 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the Lu You Memorial Hall. This should allow enough time to view the exhibits, read about Lu You’s life and works, and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
The must-see highlights include Lu You’s personal poems, his historical documents, and artifacts from his life. The memorial hall also has displays on his patriotic poems and writings about nature and the landscape around Hangzhou.
Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English. Audio guides in multiple languages can be rented at the entrance, providing an informative experience about Lu You’s life and poetry.
The best viewpoints for photography are around the garden area of the Memorial Hall, especially during sunset when the light creates beautiful reflections on the nearby lake. The scenic beauty surrounding the hall offers great photo opportunities.
Start with the main exhibition hall to understand the life and works of Lu You. Follow this by exploring the garden area where you can enjoy the serene environment that inspired many of his poems. Finish by visiting the small bookstore where you can find literature related to Lu You.
Night visits are not available, as the Memorial Hall closes in the evening. However, special tours are available during specific festivals or commemorations of Lu You's life, usually during the spring or fall.
The Memorial Hall can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially during off-peak seasons like winter.
The Memorial Hall has basic facilities such as clean toilets, a small rest area, and a shop selling souvenirs and books related to Lu You’s work. There are no major food facilities on-site, so it's recommended to visit nearby cafes or restaurants for meals.
Yes, the Memorial Hall is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevator access to various levels. It is also family-friendly, with areas suitable for children to enjoy the garden and exhibition space.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted at the entrance and in the gift shop. Credit cards may also be accepted at the gift shop.
Nearby, you can find a variety of restaurants and cafes serving both local Hangzhou cuisine and international dishes. There are some good options along the West Lake area, about a 10-minute walk from the Memorial Hall.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available at some of the local restaurants near West Lake. Halal food can also be found at specialized restaurants in Hangzhou.
There are several hotels close to the Memorial Hall, including luxury options such as the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake, as well as more affordable hotels in the West Lake area.
Nearby attractions include the famous West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and the Broken Bridge. All of these can be easily combined for a day trip exploring Hangzhou’s rich cultural and natural beauty.
Yes, the Memorial Hall has a small souvenir shop selling items related to Lu You’s life and poetry, including books, postcards, and traditional Chinese crafts. Typical souvenirs include calligraphy supplies and poetry-themed art pieces.
After visiting the Memorial Hall, you can take a taxi or bus to other popular attractions around Hangzhou, such as the West Lake, Lingyin Temple, or the Hefang Street historical area. The metro and buses are also convenient for getting around the city.