Go, go, go! Hangzhou's "Lotus Secret Garden" is in full bloom!

With the 2025 Hangzhou Botanical Garden's "Glistening Lotus Shadows, Gorgeous Water Lily Exhibition" arriving as scheduled, the season for admiring lotuses has officially begun! It's clear to see that lotuses across Hangzhou are already drawing crowds—spots like the Breeze-Ruffled Lotus at Quyuan Garden in West Lake, Xianghu Lotus Village, and the Green Causeway in Xixi Wetland are already bustling with visitors! But what many don't know is that Hangzhou hides a "Lotus Secret Garden," now blooming perfectly ahead of schedule, resembling an ink painting. Accessible by metro and free to enter, it's a must-visit for those interested! This hidden gem is the "Dream Lotus Pond" in Yuhang, Hangzhou. Spanning 60 acres, this "Lotus Secret Garden" has seen its first batch of lotuses quietly unfurling their petals. Layers of pink and white petals create a mesmerizing sight—some standing tall, others still in bud—like a flowing ink painting. What's more, the serene beauty with fewer crowds makes it truly exceptional! Here, the fragrance of lotuses greets you, and unlike West Lake's lotuses, which can only be admired from afar, the "Dream Lotus Pond" allows you to get up close, making it easy to capture stunning photos that make you feel like you own the pond! Venture further in, and you'll find narrow paths between the fields. Visitors can stroll freely along these paths to admire the lotuses. The poetic lines, "Endless green lotus leaves stretch to the sky, under the sun, the lotuses glow uniquely red," truly come to life when experienced up close—the moment you get near, it’s an epiphany of pure delight! Moreover, the lotus varieties here are extraordinary. Over 20,000 lotus plants bloom in a riot of colors—some pure white, others with colorful bases, some crimson, and some multicolored. It’s a feast for the eyes, leaving you spellbound! From what we’ve observed, there are three highlights for visitors: First, the lotus experience itself—a "Lotus Secret Garden" where you can observe and photograph lotuses up close. Just hearing about it is enough to get excited, making you want to rush over immediately! Second, the family-friendly appeal. The pristine natural setting is perfect for family outings, where kids can enjoy the lotuses, play, and explore. Third, the camping opportunities. Around the "Dream Lotus Pond," there are lush forests and grassy areas—just bring a canopy or picnic mat, and you’re set for a spontaneous camping adventure! If you stay long enough, you can even capture the "CBD Lotus Pond" scene, where the foreground features the "Lotus Secret Garden" and the backdrop showcases towering CBD skyscrapers—a surreal and photogenic contrast! The lights typically turn on around 6 to 7 PM, and whether you’re using a phone or a camera, you can snap breathtaking shots. For the best results, a drone is highly recommended, as it captures the harmonious blend of "technology and nature" in a truly stunning way! A word of caution: since it’s a lotus pond, it’s best to bring mosquito repellent, snacks, and water to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit! Transportation: Metro: Take Line 5 to [Gexiang Station] Exit D, and the "Dream Lotus Pond" is just a short walk away. Driving: Navigate to "Gexiang Station Parking Lot," and you can walk to the lotus pond from there. Bus: Take routes 1305M or 2500M to [Gexiang Station Exit C], then walk through the metro station to reach the pond. Practical info for Hangzhou’s "Dream Lotus Pond": Admission is free, no reservation needed. Located about 110 meters south of the intersection of Aicheng Street and Chuangjing Road in Yuhang District, Hangzhou. Metro travel is highly recommended! So, what do you think? Are you intrigued by Hangzhou’s "Lotus Secret Garden"? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!