Osmanthus in Hangzhou is just beginning to bloom! Is this osmanthus viewing hiking trail going to be overcrowded? Here’s a guide to avoid the peak

🌾 After enduring the continuous high temperatures this summer in Hangzhou, the city flower, osmanthus, is finally slowly "awakening"! Although it’s blooming later than usual, with the weather cooling down, you can already catch the faint fragrance of osmanthus in the streets and alleys. The latest data shows that the Osmanthus at Manjuelong is about 30% in bloom, and the scent in areas like the Botanical Garden is quietly lingering in the air. Based on the current temperature and weather trends, the whole city’s osmanthus is expected to reach full bloom in about a week. Friends planning to come to Hangzhou for the “osmanthus date” can start planning their trip now! Many worry that “this hiking trail will be overcrowded,” but that’s not an overreaction—the route connecting several prime osmanthus viewing spots is already a classic. During peak bloom, popular spots like Manjuelong and Shiwudong will likely see the bustling crowds of past years. But don’t worry, here’s an optimized hiking route that avoids backtracking, along with highlights of each spot and tips to avoid the crowds, helping you enjoy the fragrance without the crush. ⚠️ Key points first: Peak avoidance & practical tips 1. Off-peak times: Weekends are peak crowd times, so prioritize weekdays; before 8 AM and after 5 PM daily not only have fewer people but also offer soft lighting perfect for capturing beautiful osmanthus scenes. 2. Lesser-known alternatives: If Manjuelong is too crowded, consider Wengjiashan or the Longjing branch of the Tea Museum, where osmanthus trees are dense and visitors fewer; Fancun and Meiling South Road also have quiet osmanthus spots, ideal for peaceful fragrance appreciation. 3. Transportation advice: During peak osmanthus season, traffic around Manjuelong can be congested. It’s recommended to take public transit—bus lines 87, 4, and others directly reach multiple viewing spots, making travel convenient and eco-friendly. 4. Bloom period reminder: Osmanthus blooms briefly, with peak bloom usually lasting only 1-2 weeks. Late October to early November is most likely the best viewing period. Don’t miss this “autumn-only sweet fragrance” if you want to check in! 🚶 Osmanthus-themed hiking route (rearranged for a more pleasant experience) Recommended route order: 1️⃣ Shiwudong → 2️⃣ Lower Manjuelong → 3️⃣ Yangmeiling → 4️⃣ Liansi Temple → 5️⃣ Jiuxi Yanshu → 6️⃣ Hupao → 7️⃣ Liuhe Pagoda Quick highlights of each spot - Shiwudong: A zen-filled osmanthus viewing spot! The courtyard’s osmanthus trees trap the fragrance inside, and the combination of cave scenery and floral scent is perfect for photos. However, it’s a popular check-in spot, so it’s best to arrive early or come in the evening to avoid crowds. - Lower Manjuelong: The “top-tier” osmanthus viewing spot lives up to its reputation! Over 7,000 osmanthus trees line the path, and when the wind blows, it creates a romantic “Manlong Osmanthus Rain” scene. Street vendors also offer osmanthus cake, osmanthus wine, and other specialties, so be prepared for the crowds. - Yangmeiling: A much quieter osmanthus viewing spot compared to Manjuelong! Tall sweet osmanthus trees grow along the path, with reddish-brown petals falling on the bluestone road. Every photo is a romantic masterpiece, perfect for a slow, leisurely stroll. - Liansi Temple: Don’t miss the 300-year-old ancient osmanthus tree in the temple! The old tree’s thick branches emit an especially rich fragrance when blooming. Sitting under the tree smelling the flowers and daydreaming lets you experience the tranquility of “seeking osmanthus in the mountain temple.” The temple is currently a bit crowded, so visiting off-peak is recommended. - Jiuxi Yanshu: The ultimate forest-style osmanthus viewing spot! The creek flows gently, and scattered osmanthus flowers fall onto the water surface with the breeze. The “osmanthus flowers on flowing water” scene is super soothing, instantly washing away hiking fatigue with floral fragrance. - Hupao: A “classical-style osmanthus garden” hidden in the forest! The old osmanthus trees near the bell tower and Jigong Hall emit a strong fragrance. When tired from walking, you can enjoy a cup of osmanthus tea brewed with Hupao spring water, refreshing and relieving fatigue for a full sensory experience. - Liuhe Pagoda: The perfect combination of ancient pagoda and osmanthus fragrance! Osmanthus trees near Jingyu Jiangtian Archway are already full of golden flower buds. When the wind moves the pagoda bells, the scent mixed with the fresh river air is especially pleasant. Early risers will find fewer people and beautiful scenery. Right now, Hangzhou is moving from “sporadic osmanthus fragrance” toward “a city full of sweet scent.” In a few days, over 5 million osmanthus trees will bloom simultaneously, turning this hiking trail into a true “autumn fragrance corridor.” With good planning, you can fully immerse yourself in this uniquely Hangzhou autumn romance~ 🌼