——“A Hidden Gem of West Lake · Wild, Serene, and Poetic”
Nestled in the southwest corner of West Lake, west of Yanggong Causeway and backed by Dingjia Hill and Wulao Peak, Maojiabu is a tranquil enclave surrounded by hills on three sides and open to the lake on the fourth. During the Southern Song dynasty, it served as the landing dock for pilgrims traveling by boat to Lingyin Temple—marking the start of the historic “Incense Offering Trail.” Today, free from crowds and commercial bustle, Maojiabu has become West Lake’s best-kept secret: a wild, poetic landscape where egrets skim the water, reeds sway in the breeze, and ancient stone bridges arch over quiet channels—like a living ink-wash painting.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7, year-round — free admission
Best Seasons:
Spring (March–May): Fresh green reeds and blooming wildflowers
Autumn (October–November): Vibrant foliage and crystal-clear lake waters
Recommended Visit Time: 1.5–2 hours (ideal for walking or a hand-rowed boat tour)
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Key Highlights
1.Wild West Lake – A Natural Wetland Oasis
Unlike the manicured Su or Bai Causeways, Maojiabu preserves its untamed wetland character:
Meandering waterways, scattered islets, and hidden coves
Dense reed beds, lotus ponds, wild ducks, and soaring egrets
Pebble paths winding beneath centuries-old camphor trees At dawn or dusk, mist hovers over the water and birdsong fills the air—a true escape into nature.
2.The Ancient Incense Trail – Echoes of History
Stroll along the old stone-paved path once trodden by Song-era pilgrims:
They would sail from Qiantang Gate, land here at Maojiabu, then walk to Lingyin and Tianzhu temples
Though now quiet, remnants of teahouses and inns still linger in the landscape
Cross historic bridges like Tongli Bridge (a Ming-dynasty single-arch stone bridge) and Yujian Bridge, each whispering tales of centuries past.
3.Cultural Spots – Quiet Places to Pause
Fanggui Pavilion: Overlooks the lake; fragrant with osmanthus in autumn
Daise Cantian Pavilion: Named after the phrase “deep green peaks reaching the sky”—perfect for meditation amid forest shade
Du Jinsheng Former Residence: Home of a renowned modern silk-weaving artist; learn about Hangzhou’s brocade heritage
Zhiqian Memorial Pavilion: Honors Zhao Zhiqian, a celebrated Qing-dynasty calligrapher and painter
4.Ways to Explore – By Land or Water
Walking Loop: Start from Quyuan Garden → Upper Maojiabu → Lower Maojiabu → return (~3 km, flat and easy)
Hand-Rowed Boat Tour:
Depart from Hangzhou Hotel Pier or Kuawo Bridge Pier
Route: Through Jinsha Harbor into Maojiabu’s secluded waterways
Cost: ¥150/hour (fits up to 4 people); boatmen often share local stories
Lakeside Tea Experience: Several rustic tea houses in the village serve fresh Longjing (Dragon Well) tea with lake views (¥30–50 per person)
🚌Getting There
By Bus: Take routes 27, 87, or 197 to “Maojiabu” stop
On Foot or Bike:
Walk south from Quyuan Garden along Yanggong Causeway; cross Wolong Bridge to enter (~10 minutes)
Easily combined with Guo’s Villa, Hangzhou Flower Garden, and Wugui Pond for a peaceful “West Lake West Loop”
By Car: Navigate to “Maojiabu Village”; limited free parking available at the entrance (fills quickly on holidays)
💡Practical Tips
📸 Best Photo Spots: Tongli Bridge (stunning reflections), reed-bed boardwalk (ideal at sunrise with mist)
👟 What to Wear: Non-slip shoes (some paths are damp near water); bring insect repellent in summer
🚫 Be Respectful: Do not disturb birds or pick plants; carry out all trash
☕ Suggested Itinerary:
Morning: Walk through Maojiabu + lakeside tea break
Afternoon: Visit Lingyin Temple or hike to Longjing Village for tea tasting
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