I thought West Lake was beautiful enough, until I went to…
I always thought the beauty of West Lake was unparalleled, but when I went to Nine Creeks in Hangzhou, I discovered a hidden gem! Many people call Nine Creeks "Little Jiuzhaigou". The streams flow with a gentle murmur, the bamboo forests are dense and lush, and the tea plantations are filled with the delicate aroma of tea. Hiking here in spring is an amazing experience! Whether you're a casual stroller or a seasoned hiker, you'll find a route that suits you.
Attraction Introduction
- Nine Creeks Smoke Trees: This is the heart of Nine Creeks. A crystal-clear stream runs through it, surrounded by lush trees. In autumn, the maple leaves turn a vibrant red, creating a picturesque scene reminiscent of an oil painting when interspersed with the emerald green trees. The stream is dotted with smooth stones, over which the water flows, creating small splashes. In the distance, rolling hills and swirling clouds create a dreamlike landscape. Free admission.
- Longjing Village: Famous for its Longjing tea, the village is surrounded by vast tea plantations, offering a feast for the eyes with its verdant greenery. Most of the houses here feature the black-tiled roofs and white walls characteristic of Jiangnan architecture. As you walk through the village, the air is filled with the refreshing scent of tea. You can also see villagers drying and roasting tea leaves, offering a glimpse into the charm of traditional tea culture. Free admission.
- Ten Mile Long Causeway: The longest mountain ridge in Hangzhou, it's also a classic hiking route. Along the way, you'll see rolling tea plantations and enjoy panoramic views. From higher vantage points, you can overlook the villages below and vast green fields, creating a spectacular vista. However, the mountain path has some inclines, making the hike a bit challenging. Free admission.
- Meijiawu Village: Another tea production base, this village also has a rich tea culture. The village boasts a tranquil environment, with many farmhouses and tea houses scattered along the stream. Here, you can savor authentic Longjing tea and enjoy local farmhouse dishes. Free admission.
Recommended Routes
- Easy Route: From the Nine Creeks bus stop, take the sightseeing bus (CNY 8) directly to Nine Creeks Smoke Trees. After enjoying the scenery, stroll to the entrance of Nine Creeks Longjing Village. You can also walk in the opposite direction if you prefer. The whole trip takes about 2 hours. This route is easy and effortless, perfect for those who prefer a relaxed sightseeing experience. Best photo spots: By the stream at Nine Creeks Smoke Trees, with the stream and green trees as a backdrop; at the entrance of Nine Creeks Longjing Village, with the antique archway as a backdrop.
- Moderate Route: From the Nine Creeks bus stop, head to Nine Creeks Smoke Trees, then walk to the entrance of Nine Creeks Longjing Village. Enter Longjing Village, then hike the Ten Mile Long Causeway. Finally, walk from the Longjing Village entrance of Ten Mile Long Causeway to the entrance of Meijiawu Village. The whole trip takes about 4–5 hours. You can also do the route in reverse. This route allows you to enjoy both beautiful natural scenery and tea culture. Best photo spots: In the tea plantations of Longjing Village, with the tea trees as a backdrop; at the viewing platform on Ten Mile Long Causeway, with the rolling tea plantations and distant mountains as a backdrop; by the stream in Meijiawu Village, with the black-tiled and white-walled houses as a backdrop.
Transportation
- Take bus routes 4, 39, 103, 308, or 314 to the Nine Creeks bus stop.
- If driving, you need to book parking in advance on the "Smart West Lake" app. After successful booking, you can drive directly into the Nine Creeks scenic area. If you prefer not to drive into the area, you can park in the parking lot at the entrance of the Nine Creeks scenic area.
Things to Note
- It's best to visit Nine Creeks Smoke Trees in the first half of your trip, as it offers the most beautiful scenery, and you'll have more energy to appreciate it.
- The section of Ten Mile Long Causeway from Longjing to Meijiawu is not recommended for those who are not physically fit, as the scenery is less remarkable, and it can get very sunny on a clear day.
- If you choose the moderate route, you can take a break in Longjing Village, have a meal, enjoy some tea, and relax.
- Except for Yunqi Bamboo Trail (CNY 8, free with a park card), all other attractions are free.
Local Cuisine
- Longjing Shrimp: Made with fresh shrimp and pre-Qingming Longjing tea leaves. The shrimp is jade-white, tender, and springy, infused with the delicate fragrance of tea. It's a refreshing dish with the taste of spring.
- Dingsheng Cake: A traditional Hangzhou pastry, it's small and delicate in shape, soft and glutinous in texture, and sweet but not greasy. Legend has it that it was made by the people of the Southern Song Dynasty to encourage soldiers going to war, and it carries a beautiful meaning.
- Cong Bao Gui: A spring pancake and a youtiao (fried dough stick) are grilled on a special griddle, topped with spring onions, and brushed with sweet or spicy sauce. It's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a rich onion aroma, making it a unique snack.