Hupao Park: The Third Spring Under Heaven Hidden on the West Lake

# **I. Overview** **Hupao Park** is located at the foot of Daci Mountain on the southwest side of West Lake in Hangzhou. It is famous for the Hupao Spring, which is known as one of the "West Lake's Twin Wonders" along with Longjing tea. Integrating natural landscapes and cultural relics, it boasts the cultural heritage of the legend of Ji Gong and the place where Li Shutong (Master Hongyi) became a monk, as well as secluded bamboo forests and streams, making it an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. --- ### **II. Basic Information** - **Address**: 39 Hupao Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou - **Opening Hours**: 6:00–18:00 (extended to 18:30 in summer) - **Tickets**: CNY 15 (free with park card) - **Recommended Length of Visit**: 2–3 hours - **Transportation**: - Bus: Get off at the "Hupao" stop on routes 4, 194, and 315 - Self-driving: There is a parking lot at the entrance of the scenic area (parking spaces are limited on weekends) --- ### **III. Must-See Highlights** **1. Hupao Spring: The Third Spring Under Heaven** - The spring water is sweet and refreshing, rich in minerals, and Emperor Qianlong once named it the "Third Spring Under Heaven." - **Experience**: You can bring your own kettle to collect spring water (the water collection point is located next to the spring), or go to the tea room in the park to brew Longjing tea with Hupao water to experience the wonderful combination of the "West Lake Twin Wonders." **2. Li Shutong Memorial Hall (Master Hongyi Relic Pagoda)** - Li Shutong (Master Hongyi), a modern Chinese art master, became a monk here in 1918. The hall displays his life, calligraphy, paintings, and Buddhist achievements. - **Recommendation**: Sit quietly in the "Hongyi Abode" and feel the Zen atmosphere of "Outside the long pavilion, along the ancient road." **3. Legend of Ji Gong and Ji Gong Hall** - Legend has it that Ji Gong practiced here. The hall enshrines the statue of Ji Gong, where you can learn about stories such as the "Yunmu Ancient Well" and "Hupao Dream Spring." - **Fun Fact**: Look for the ancient well ruins where Ji Gong transported wood. It is said that a piece of wood still remains at the bottom of the well. **4. Natural Landscape** - **Cuiyuetang**: Towering ancient trees, a summer retreat. - **Dicui Cliff**: Spring water drips from the cracks in the rocks, like the tinkling of jade pendants. - **Autumn Corridor**: In late autumn, maple trees and ginkgo trees are dyed in layers of color, perfect for taking pictures. --- ### **IV. Recommended Itinerary** **Half-Day Essence Route** (approx. 3 hours): Mountain Gate → Han Hui Pavilion → Cuiyuetang → Li Shutong Memorial Hall → Hupao Spring (water collection experience) → Ji Gong Hall → Dicui Cliff → Tea Room Tasting → Exit the Park --- ### **V. Precautions** 1. **Wear Comfortable Shoes**: There are many stone steps and slopes in the park, so it is recommended to wear non-slip sneakers. 2. **Prevent Mosquitoes**: The vegetation is lush, so mosquito repellent is needed in summer. 3. **Water Collection Etiquette**: Do not make noise or waste water when collecting spring water, and it is recommended to bring your own container. 4. **Photography Tips**: In the early morning or after the rain, when the mist is lingering, the bamboo forest and ancient buildings look more ethereal. 5. **Recommended Side Trips**: You can visit the Liuhe Pagoda, Jiuxi Yanshu, or Manjuelong (excellent for osmanthus season in autumn) along the way. --- ### **VI. Recommended Local Cuisine** - **Hupao Villa**: Restaurant in the scenic area, recommended spring water tofu and Longjing shrimp. - **Jiangnan Yi (Shangtianzhu Branch)**: Popular Hangzhou cuisine restaurant, spicy chicken is a must-order (approx. 15 minutes drive from Hupao). - **Tea Room**: "Hupao Mengquan Tea House" in the park offers the "Longjing Tea + Hupao Water" combination. --- ### **VII. Travel Tips** - **Best Season**: Suitable for all seasons. Enjoy tea in spring, escape the summer heat, admire the leaves in autumn, and watch the snow in winter. - **Cultural Experience**: If you are interested in Buddhist culture, you can learn about the life of Master Hongyi in advance for a more immersive visit. - **Avoid Crowds**: There are more tourists on weekends and holidays, so it is recommended to enter the park before 9am.