Deshou Palace is located in Shangcheng District, Hangzhou—just steps away from Hefang Street and Wushan Square, at the heart of the former Southern Song imperial city. Originally constructed in 1162 during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279), it served as the retirement residence for Emperor Gaozong (Zhao Gou) after his abdication, later also housing Emperor Xiaozong in his later years. Known as the “Northern Inner Palace” (Beinei), it rivaled the main imperial palace (“Southern Inner Palace”) on Phoenix Hill, collectively referred to as the “Two Palaces.”
At its peak, Deshou Palace covered over 170,000 square meters—even larger than the official imperial palace—and featured dozens of exquisite structures, including a “Mini West Lake,” Cold Spring Pavilion, and Fragrant Distance Hall. It represented the pinnacle of Southern Song imperial garden design and refined court aesthetics.
Today’s Deshou Palace: Archaeology Meets Digital Revival
After more than two decades of archaeological excavation (2001–2020), the site opened to the public in 2022 as the Deshou Palace Heritage Park and Museum of the Southern Song Dynasty (Phase I). The complex is divided into three key zones:
- Archaeological Site Zone: Walk over glass-floored pathways to view authentic unearthed remains—stone column foundations (sangdun), drainage channels, brick-paved roads, and garden layouts.
- Reconstructed Architecture Zone: Key buildings like Chonghua Hall (main throne hall) and Cifu Palace have been meticulously rebuilt following the Yingzao Fashi (Song Dynasty architectural manual), featuring traditional timber frames, grey roof tiles, and vermilion pillars that embody the elegance of Song aesthetics—subtle, refined, and harmonious.
- Digital Experience Pavilion: Cutting-edge technologies—including 4D immersive theaters, AR interactive screens, and holographic projections—bring Southern Song court life to life, from tea ceremonies and seasonal festivals to daily rituals. Don’t miss the evening “Night at Deshou” light-and-sound show, a highlight for many visitors.
Top Experiences
- See Authentic Artifacts: Over hundreds of excavated items on display, including Longquan celadon, Guan ware shards, and architectural relics.
- Photograph Song-Era Elegance: Iconic backdrops like red walls with bamboo shadows, moon gates, and winding courtyards are perfect for Hanfu (traditional Chinese attire) photoshoots.
- Participate in Cultural Workshops: Try hands-on activities like Song-style tea whisking, incense blending, or flower arrangement (advance booking required).
- Combine with Nearby Attractions: Just a 5-minute walk to Hefang Street and 10 minutes to Southern Song Imperial Street—ideal for a full-day “Southern Song Heritage Tour.”
Practical Information
- Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM); closed Mondays (except public holidays)
- Admission: Free, but advance reservation is mandatory via the official WeChat mini-program “Deshou Palace Heritage Museum”
- Recommended Visit Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Getting There:
- Metro: Line 7 to Jiangcheng Road Station, Exit A, then ~800m walk
- Bus: Get off at Gulou (Drum Tower) Station, just steps away
- Tips: Flash photography is prohibited inside exhibition halls. The digital pavilion can get crowded—visiting in the morning is recommended for a smoother experience.
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