Xixi National Wetland Park

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This well-known spot is called one of the "Sanxi" (Three Streams) of Hangzhou, along with the West Lake and the Xiling Seal Art Society. It covers 10 square kilometers in western Hangzhou, About 5 km from West Lake. It is China's first and the only national wetland park combining urban life, farming and wetlands.

[Photo/en.gotohz.com]

With a history of 1,800 years, it was discovered in the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317-420) according to a record. It flourished during the Ming (AD 1368-1644) and Qing dynasties (1644-1911) but experienced a decline in modern times. In the past, its serenity also attracted numerous authors who took their inspiration from it.

[Photo/en.gotohz.com]

Rich in natural resources and refreshing scenery, it was honored as one of the Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance on Nov 3, 2009 and listed as national 5A scenic spot in 2012. Water is of course its focal point since it takes up 70 percent of the park, creating a special habitat for various plant and animal species. It has six creeks crisscrossing it, spilling into various ponds, lakes and swamps.