“Lotus and wine, an intoxicating mix,” a traveler once mused, captivated by the legend of Quyuan Fenghe. Today, we explore this enchanting park in Hangzhou. It is a place where history and nature intertwine. Quyuan Fenghe, originally named “Quyuan Lotus Wind,” boasts a rich past.
Once upon a time during the Southern Song Dynasty, a royal winery stood near Hongchun Bridge. This winery crafted wine using water from the Jinsha Stream flowing into West Lake. Lotus plants thrived on the lake. During summer, a gentle breeze carried the scent of lotus and wine creating an intoxicating atmosphere.
However, the beauty of “Quyuan Lotus Wind” was destroyed when the Mongol army invaded. It remained in ruins until the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty. Then, the Governor-General of Zhejiang Province restored it. Emperor Kangxi himself renamed it “Quyuan Fenghe.” He inscribed the name. A monument was erected near the Su Causeway’s Rainbow Bridge. Back then, it was merely a small courtyard. A small lotus pond graced the front.
Today’s Quyuan Fenghe is a large park. Its construction began in 1983. It stretches along Yuehu Lake to Guo Zhuang near Wolong Bridge on Yanggong Causeway. The park spans 42.6 hectares. 3.8 hectares are dedicated to lotus fields. Here, you will see red lotus, white lotus, sprinkling lotus, brocade lotus and twin lotus.
The park includes six scenic areas: the Su Garden, the Feng Garden, the Quyuan Garden, Yuehu Lake, the Dense Forest, and the Guo Zhuang Ancient Garden. Ancient pavilions dot the waterfront. Bridges of varied designs gracefully arch over waterways. Willow trees and lotus flowers create picturesque scenes.
Imagine strolling through Quyuan Fenghe. The air is filled with the sweet fragrance of lotus blossoms. Ancient quaint pavilions stand along the shores. Bridges connect different parts of the park. Red, white, sprinkling and twin lotuses delight visitors.
The beauty of Quyuan Fenghe has inspired artists and emperors alike. The Qing Dynasty painter Dong Bangda captured its essence in his artwork. Emperor Qianlong inscribed poems on it. Quyuan Fenghe embodies Hangzhou’s commitment to blending urban life with natural beauty. It offers a tranquil escape from the city. Its location near Yuehu Lake, Guozhuang Village and Yuemiao Temple enhances its charm. It attracts locals and tourists alike.
Quyuan Fenghe hosted the G20 Hangzhou Summit’s evening gala. The event “Most Memorable is Hangzhou” took place here. It is also the venue for “Impression West Lake”. As you leave Quyuan Fenghe, remember the blend of lotus fragrance and wine aroma. Remember emperors and artists who found inspiration here. This park is not just a place. It is a sensory experience. It is a journey through Hangzhou’s history.