Recently, Xixi National Wetland Park earned a top spot in the fifth batch of "Zhejiang Provincial International Cultural Exchange Bases," making it the only site in Hangzhou to receive this prestigious honor in 2023.
Why Is Xixi Wetland a Must-Visit?
Xixi Wetland is renowned for hosting signature events like the Hangzhou Xixi International Dragon Boat Cultural Festival. Each year, the "Dragon Boat Victory Celebration" draws participants from over 20 countries, including Russia and the United States, to compete in thrilling dragon boat races.
Xixi Wetland also plays a key role in promoting global awareness of China's wetlands. As the main venue for China's World Wetlands Day celebrations, it has produced stunning promotional videos and hosted events that highlight the beauty and ecological importance of Chinese wetlands. These efforts have made it a vibrant hub for international cultural exchange, attracting over 100 students from around the world.
A Surprising New Hotspot: The Neighborhood Market
Surprisingly, one of the hottest new "attractions" for foreign tourists isn’t a grand landmark—it’s a humble neighborhood market in Xihu District.
The Gudang Farmers' Market has become a must-visit spot for international tourists. It went viral during the Asian Games and continues to attract young people and foreign visitors eager to experience its unique local charm.
Other Trending Destinations in Xihu District
China Academy of Art
Designed by renowned architect WANG Shu, dean of the School of Architecture and Art, the China Academy of Art campus exudes a unique artistic charm. Regular exhibitions further enhance its reputation as a cultural hotspot.
Yichuang Town
From the "Little Iceland" sensation that went viral on social media to the Phoenix Creative International Park, Hangzhou's version of the "Castle in the Sky," and the Xiangshan Art Commune, Yichuang Town is brimming with photogenic art destinations that are a dream for Instagram enthusiasts.
Zhejiang Conservatory of Music
A campus infused with musical elements. The grand theater and concert hall at the northern gate resemble a horizontal guitar, while the library is shaped like a three-pedal piano. At its center, the clock tower evokes both an hourglass and a transformed harp, making the entire campus a masterpiece of musical design.