If you're craving a peaceful getaway filled with green mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and a touch of ancient culture, Tonglu County in China Zhejiang might just be your perfect destination.

Located in northwestern China Zhejiang Province, about 80 kilometers southwest of Hangzhou, Tonglu is a hidden gem along the Fuchun River, known for its natural beauty and slow-paced life.

With a total area of 1,829.59 square kilometers and a population of around 450,000, Tonglu offers wide open spaces, cozy towns, and charming villages—perfect for weekend escapes or quiet exploration.

Must-Visit Attractions and Ticket Info

Here are some top places we highly recommend checking out:

Yaolin Wonderland:A stunning limestone cave system filled with colorful lights and strange rock formations.

- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

- Tickets: ~$11 USD (RMB 80) per adult

Fuchun River Scenic Area: Take a boat cruise and soak in the exact scenery that inspired ancient painters like Huang Gongwang.

- Cruise Times: Morning and afternoon sessions

- Boat Ride Ticket: ~$15 USD (RMB 110) per person for a standard 90-minute tour

- Chun’an Greenway Cycling Trail: If you love biking, this is the place to go. Ride along the riverbank and take in the quiet countryside.

Tongjun Mountain: A small mountain known for its cultural history and views of the town below.

- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

- Tickets: ~$4 USD (RMB 30)

How to Get to Tonglu

Getting to Tonglu is easy whether you're coming from Hangzhou, Shanghai, or other nearby cities:

- High-Speed Train: From Hangzhou East Station to Tonglu Station – about 30–40 minutes

- By Car: Around 1.5 hours from Hangzhou city center via the S9 or G60 expressways

- Long-distance Bus: Regular buses from Hangzhou West Bus Station to Tonglu Bus Station

Once you arrive, taxis and bike rentals are available, or we can use ride-hailing apps like Didi to get around.

Best Time to Visit Tonglu

The ideal time to visit Tonglu is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons bring pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and vibrant foliage.

Summer can be a bit hot but great for river cruises, while winter is quiet and offers a peaceful atmosphere for those seeking solitude.

Where to Stay in Tonglu

Tonglu has a wide range of options from boutique countryside inns to modern hotels:

- Riverside Guesthouses: ~$30–50 USD per night with beautiful Fuchun River views

- Tonglu Wyndham Grand Plaza Hotel: ~USD $80–100 per night for luxury stays

- Rural B&Bs in Villages like Eshan or Hengcun: ~$20–30 USD per night, ideal for those wanting a local experience

Travel Tips for Lykkers

1. Pack light, breathable clothes in spring/summer, and bring comfy walking shoes.

2. Mobile payments are widely accepted, but have some cash just in case.

3. Try local dishes like bamboo shoots, river fish, and handmade tofu.

4. Rent a bike along the Fuchun River trails—some guesthouses offer them for free.

5. Avoid public holidays like National Day (Oct 1–7) to enjoy quieter scenery.

Experience the Soul of Jiangnan in Tonglu

Tonglu captivates us not just with its beauty, but with a sense of peace that’s hard to find elsewhere. Drifting on the quiet river, exploring timeless stone-paved villages, and enjoying a slow afternoon with tea by the water—these simple moments help us reconnect with a gentler rhythm of life.

Here, misty mountains rise above calm valleys, friendly faces greet us on narrow lanes, and centuries-old customs continue in the hum of daily life. Everything feels naturally in tune, like time itself has softened.

Let’s Plan Our Trip to Tonglu Together!

So Lykkers, is Tonglu calling your name too? You might love the quiet rivers, the lush mountain trails, or the peaceful guesthouses tucked in old villages. There’s a little magic here waiting to be discovered. Share your thoughts with us—have you explored Tonglu before, or are you dreaming of going soon? Let’s start planning our next beautiful getaway together!