Hangzhou Botanical Garden

Introducing Hangzhou Botanical Garden

Hangzhou Botanical Garden is located in Taoyuanling, Xihu District, Hangzhou. It is one of China's scientific research institutions for plant introduction and domestication. It has nine exhibition areas and four experimental areas, including plant classification, economic plants, bamboo plants, ornamental plants, trees, and landscape gardens.

The Jade Spring in the garden is one of the "Four Famous Springs" in Hangzhou."Jade Spring and Leaping Fish" was once one of the "Eighteen Scenic Spots of West Lake" in the Qing Dynasty

Climate and best time to travel

The Botanical Garden has scenery to see in all seasons

The azaleas and plum blossoms that bloom in spring, the chrysanthemums in autumn, and the winter plum blossoms that bloom in winter

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Bonsai Garden, Aquatic Plant Area, Plum Blossom Viewing at Lingfeng, Han Meilin Art Museum, Fish Viewing at Yuquan, Maple and Azalea Garden, Bamboo Plant Area

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Tickets

10 yuan/person

Free entry to the park outside ticket sales hours

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Attraction opening hours

7:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Hangzhou Botanical Garden

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Hangzhou Botanical Garden is one of the largest botanical gardens in China. It was established in 1956 and has since become an important center for the research and conservation of plant species, especially rare and endangered plants. It plays a crucial role in environmental education and promoting sustainable gardening practices.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The garden is located in the Xihu District of Hangzhou, near the famous West Lake. It can be accessed by metro (Line 1 to "Hushuguan" station), bus, or taxi. It's also a short walk from the West Lake area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Hangzhou Botanical Garden is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the flowers are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 20 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the garden or online through various local platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is generally not required, but it is recommended for visiting during busy seasons (spring or major holidays). A few days in advance should be sufficient for online bookings.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the gardens, plan to spend about 2-3 hours. This allows time to visit the themed gardens, the greenhouse, and enjoy the natural scenery.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Bonsai Garden, featuring over 500 species of bonsai trees.
• The Rose Garden, which showcases a wide variety of roses, especially in spring and summer.
• The Tropical Plant Greenhouse, home to exotic plants from tropical regions.
• The Bamboo Garden, which is a peaceful area with many varieties of bamboo.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, and they can be arranged at the entrance or through local tour operators. Audio guides are available in Mandarin, and some operators may offer English-language tours.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The Bamboo Garden provides excellent shots of serene natural beauty.
• The Rose Garden is a perfect spot for capturing vibrant flower close-ups, especially during the blooming season.
• Overlooking the entire garden from the hilltop offers a panoramic view of the park.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main entrance, visit the Bonsai Garden, move to the Rose Garden for a relaxing stroll, then explore the Tropical Greenhouse. Finish with the Bamboo Garden and the hilltop for the best views.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The botanical garden is typically not open for night visits. However, there are seasonal light shows and exhibitions that may occur during holidays or special events, such as the Flower Show.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The botanical garden can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays, particularly in spring and autumn. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays, especially early in the morning or in the late afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The park has several rest areas, toilets, and drinking water stations. There are small cafes and kiosks offering snacks, but for a larger meal, it is recommended to visit nearby restaurants in the city.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Hangzhou Botanical Garden is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with paved pathways and some areas suitable for wheelchairs. However, certain parts of the garden may have steeper terrain, so visitors with mobility challenges may need assistance in some areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted, mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are more commonly used at the garden's facilities and shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Small cafes inside the garden offer light snacks and beverages.
• Nearby restaurants in the West Lake area provide a variety of Chinese and international cuisines.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some nearby restaurants in the West Lake area. Halal food options are less common but can be found in some parts of Hangzhou city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Garden Hotel Hangzhou, located near West Lake, offers comfortable accommodation with easy access to the botanical garden.
• Numerous hotels around West Lake, including budget options and luxury hotels, are also available.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is very close and can be visited after the botanical garden.
• The Lingyin Temple, one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China, is nearby.
• The Zhejiang Provincial Museum is another cultural site located near West Lake.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The garden has a few small souvenir shops selling plant-related items, gardening tools, and local handicrafts. Hangzhou is also famous for its silk, tea, and other traditional Chinese crafts, which can be purchased nearby.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Public buses and taxis are easily available for further travel within Hangzhou.
• The metro system is convenient for visiting other parts of the city, such as Lingyin Temple or the West Lake area.