Shangri-La Hangzhou West Lake is an excellent choice, located just minutes from Xipu Great Forest. This eco-luxury resort features sustainable architecture, fully smart rooms, and a zero-edge infinity pool overlooking the forest canopy. Guests enjoy direct access to biodiversity trails through subtropical evergreen broadleaf forests, with guided nature walks and night-time firefly spotting programs.

The hotel emphasizes low-impact tourism, using solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and organic landscaping. Families can participate in hands-on workshops like herbal plant identification and traditional bamboo craft-making. Conveniently, it’s only 30 minutes by metro from Hangzhou East Railway Station, with a 5-minute walk to the main entrance. Nearby attractions include the Xixi Flower Garden and Dragon Boat Cultural Pavilion, offering rich cultural immersion alongside natural exploration.

Hangzhou West Lake International Architectural Design Center Hotel is ideal—just 800 meters from the main entrance of Xipu Great Forest, with a 10-minute walk to the trailhead. The hotel follows green building standards, equipped with 24/7 intelligent security systems and drone surveillance networks for guest safety.

Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of morning mist and golden sunsets over the forest. Complimentary shuttle buses run to key attractions: Xipu Waterfall Cluster, Ancient Tree Trail, and Wildlife Observation Station. Evening events include Forest Story Nights, where local ecologists share legends and conservation insights in an immersive setting.

On-site organic farms supply ingredients for farm-to-table dining, promoting sustainability. With seamless access, top-tier safety, and deep ecological integration, this hotel stands out as the best base for responsible exploration.

Beyond the iconic Xipu Waterfall Group and Ancient Tree Exploration, join the Night Forest Safari Program, led by certified ecologists to spot elusive species like night herons, mountain partridges, and fireflies under moonlight.

Try the Traditional Bamboo Weaving Workshop, held in a forest-side studio where guests craft baskets and lanterns using sustainably harvested local bamboo. For photography enthusiasts, the Morning Mist Photography Workshop teaches techniques for capturing ethereal light through fog-drenched woods.

The hotel also hosts a Nature Sound Meditation Zone, featuring curated recordings of forest ambience to promote mindfulness. All activities follow strict eco-tourism guidelines, ensuring zero disturbance to wildlife and long-term environmental preservation.

Recommended is Hangzhou Xixi Sheraton Resort, located just steps from the heart of Xipu Great Forest. The hotel features serene garden-view rooms with direct access to forest trails, offering guests tranquil mornings surrounded by birdsong and mist. Highlights include a private bamboo outdoor hot spring pool and an eco-friendly restaurant serving locally sourced wild ingredients. Perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat amidst urban life.

Visitors can join guided morning forest walks led by certified ecologists to discover rare flora and wildlife habitats. During summer, the nighttime firefly watching program offers a magical experience under glowing bioluminescence. Other popular activities include stream kayaking adventures and traditional woodcraft workshops, blending outdoor excitement with cultural creativity. All experiences follow strict eco-friendly guidelines to preserve the forest’s natural integrity.

From central Hangzhou, take Metro Line 1 to West Lake East Station, then transfer to a dedicated shuttle bus—journey time is about 30 minutes. For self-driving, use the Huangshan-Hangzhou Expressway (Haoxian G25), taking approximately 40 minutes with clear signage along the route. Alternatively, book electric shuttle service for zero-emission travel, reaching the forest entrance in just 25 minutes. Use Amap or Baidu Maps for real-time updates on schedules and availability.

Yes, Hangzhou Xixi Sheraton Resort offers family-oriented rooms with child-safe amenities including baby toiletries, safety railings, and interactive play zones. On-site facilities include a kids’ nature discovery garden and daily eco-education workshops like forest sketching and plant specimen making. Special family packages include breakfast, scenic rooms, and free guided tours, ensuring a memorable and enriching getaway for all ages.

Spring (March–May) brings vibrant blooms of cherry blossoms and rhododendrons, painting the hills in pink and red hues—ideal for photography and hiking. Summer (June–August) offers cool, shaded trails perfect for escaping heat, plus events like forest concerts and starlight camping festivals. Autumn (September–November) features stunning foliage with golden and crimson trees, especially visible along the waterfall viewing path. Winter (December–February) sees misty landscapes resembling ink-wash paintings, complemented by snow photography sessions and cozy tea gatherings.

Absolutely! The Jade Waterfall Viewing Platform provides a breathtaking panoramic view of cascading emerald water framed by layered mountains and bamboo groves—perfect for professional shots. The Ancient Camphor Tree Trail is another favorite, with towering trees casting dappled light ideal for portrait photography. Additionally, the Mirror Lake reflects sky and trees perfectly, especially during early morning fog, creating dreamlike images. All locations feature well-marked safe pathways and clear signage for easy access and creative exploration.