"Xixi Eighteen Cols" Unveils the Enchanting Realm of West Lake's Mountains
The Xihu District Bureau of Culture, Radio, TV and Tourism recently unveiled the cultural tourism brand " Beyond West Lake, Discover Green West Lake," thrusting the “Xixi Shiba Wu”, —the Eighteen Cols of Xixi area”, back into the spotlight.
But where exactly are the "Xixi Eighteen Cols"? According to historical records, in the olden days, there were eighteen cols in the mountains spanning the eighteen miles from Qinting Mountain to Liuxia, forming a natural barrier across West Lake and Xixi Wetlands.
However, over time, these various mountain cols have gradually faded from the collective memory of the younger generation. In a bid to revive the "Xixi Eighteen Cols," members of Xihu District Bureau of Culture, Radio, TV and Tourism embarked on an extensive exploration of the mountains around West Lake.
The endeavor culminated in the release of five themed hiking routes: "Cols of Hiking in Hangzhou City" (Majiawu-Miaowu), "Cols are Artists" (Waitongwu-Litongwu), "Cols of Peace" (Wangjiawu-Jiangjiawu-Tangjiawu-Miaowu), "Cols and Nature" (Dongmuwu-Ximuwu), and "Cols Shape Mountains and Wilderness" (Ximuwu-Shirenwu). These routes vary in length but are united by their focus on green tourism, cultural experiences, and hiking exploration.
Furthermore, the "Xixi Eighteen Cols" initiative has been equipped with a digital map. Visitors can, for instance, scan the QR code at the Taoyuanwu station to discover its rich past, present, and cultural significance.
Tips:
Xixi Shiba Wu, the "Xixi Eighteen Cols" are as follows, listed from east to west: Caiwu, Guotawu, Taoyuanwu, Majiawu, Jiangjiawu, Tangjiawu, Wangjiawu, Miaowu, Xiaolongjuwu, Dalongjuwu, Zhiluowu, Huawu, Shirenwu, Ximuwu, Dongmuwu, Huapaiwu, Waitongwu, and Litongwu.