Come see the Hangzhou Magnolia Denudata in 2025, a hidden gem missed by 80% of visitors.

When it comes to magnolias in Hangzhou, people immediately think of the "Ancient Magnolia" at Faxi Temple and the "Tianmu Magnolia" at the Botanical Garden. Every spring, the fragrance overflows, the colors are magnificent, resembling snow blossoms from afar, and lanterns up close. The refreshing scent is truly captivating! However, what most people don't know is that Hangzhou hides another magnolia gem, missed by 80% of visitors, right by the West Lake. Come and admire it in 2025! We're talking about Hangzhou's Agate Temple! Agate Temple, also known as the "Lian Heng Memorial Hall," is one of the few places in Hangzhou with two names! The original Agate Temple was located on Gushan Peninsula and later relocated to its current location, its second address. However, in modern times, after the ravages of war, it was left in ruins! In recent times, it was rebuilt on the original site, based on the remaining old buildings [from the Tongzhi period of the Qing Dynasty (1862-1874), mainly including the mountain gate, wing rooms, and gardens]. It was renovated into a classical garden, incorporating pavilions, terraces, towers, halls, and corridors! In addition, Lian Heng and his wife, Shen Shaoyun, came to Hangzhou and settled in Agate Temple. The original wing rooms of Agate Temple were then used as exhibition spaces, showcasing the Taiwan Natural Environment Hall, History and Culture Hall, Taiwan Ethnic Minorities Hall, Lian Yatang Memorial Hall, Taiwan Biographical Hall, Traditional Crafts Hall, and Modern Crafts Hall, displaying the cultural heritage of "Taiwan Province," and named the "Lian Heng Memorial Hall." Thus, Agate Temple became a place with "two names in one location"! Agate Temple has always been a hidden gem by the West Lake. No matter how bustling the West Lake is, once inside, you'll be captivated by its unique charm, with no noise to be heard, truly mesmerizing! Now, in the spring of 2025, the "Magnolia Denudata" at Agate Temple is in full bloom, with multiple trees of this rare species in Hangzhou. In the antique garden, the Magnolia Denudata trees are covered in blossoms, creating a dreamlike and Zen-filled atmosphere. It's a world in a flower, a leaf like a Buddha, a place of purity, a smile like worldly dust... Photography enthusiasts can capture stunning shots from various angles, using telephoto lenses or blurring the background to highlight a single flower as the subject. Moreover, as a rare "Magnolia Denudata," its distinct pink blossoms are easily recognizable and universally loved. When you're tired of strolling, you can relax on the second floor of "Gu Gong You Xi (Agate Temple Branch)," sit by the railing, enjoy coffee or tea, admire the flowers and scenery, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the classical Jiangnan garden. For first-time visitors, we recommend the "Stamp, Stroll, and Shoot" approach: Stamp: Agate Temple offers free stamps. After entering through the main gate, talk to the staff about getting a stamp, and you can collect several commemorative stamps! Stroll: Explore the Agate Temple garden and the cultural heritage of "Taiwan Province." In the picturesque garden and the various exhibits, you'll not only appreciate the elegance but also learn about history, as it serves as a cultural backup of "Taiwan Province." Shoot: Capture the beauty of the "Magnolia Denudata." Now, various flowers will bloom one after another, although they can't compare to the absolute dominance of the "Magnolia Denudata," they still add to the spring scenery and are worth capturing. Chatting with fellow visitors, we all agreed that Agate Temple is a treasure trove year-round, a place that lifts your spirits no matter your mood! Practical information about Hangzhou Agate Temple: Free admission, no reservation required. Opening hours: 08:30-16:30. Located at No. 17, Gelin Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou. Accessible by bus routes 7 [working day direction]; 27B; 27; 277; 277 Interval; WE1314 [working day direction]; WE1314 [weekend and holiday direction]; Wulin Square to Lingyin Special Line [working day direction]; West Lake Inner Loop Line; West Lake Outer Loop Line. Get off at the "Gelin" station. For those driving, the nearest parking lot is "Baoshi Mountain - Ground Parking Lot," located on the front mountain road of Baochu Pagoda. So, are you interested in the "Magnolia Denudata" at Hangzhou Agate Temple? Feel free to leave a comment and discuss!