The 2026 Xixi Wetland Spring Lantern Festival in Hangzhou has attracted large numbers of visitors since its opening. As the Lantern Festival on February 15 approaches, authorities expect the number of visitors to increase even further. To ensure smooth transportation and a pleasant viewing experience, Hangzhou traffic police have issued travel reminders and encouraged residents and tourists to travel during off-peak hours and prioritize green transportation.

Favorable Weather for Lantern Viewing

According to weather forecasts, Hangzhou will experience mostly cloudy conditions on the Lantern Festival day, with no rain expected. The weather will be suitable for outdoor activities such as lantern viewing and moon watching, although visitors are advised to prepare for windy conditions.

Lantern Festival Information

The event was originally scheduled to run from February 11 to March 3, but it has now been extended until March 31. Lanterns are illuminated daily from 17:00 to 23:00.

Police recommend that visitors avoid the peak entry period between 17:00 and 19:00 and consider entering after 20:00 to enjoy the lantern displays with fewer crowds. Visitors are also advised to enter the park through the North Gate and exit through the South Gate (Gaozhuang), following a one-way visiting route.

Public Transportation Recommended

Visitors heading to Xixi Wetland are encouraged to take public transportation. Metro Line 19’s Xixi Wetland North Station and Metro Line 3 stations including Huawu, Dongyue, Xixi Wetland South, and Hongyuan all provide convenient access to the scenic area.

Those who plan to drive can park at nearby locations such as the West Lake District Cultural and Sports Center underground parking lot, Yunlangu Parking Lot, or Xixi No.1 Parking Lot. Through traffic is advised to avoid Wen’er West Road and take Wenyi West Road instead.

Traffic Control Measures

Traffic control will begin around 16:00 on the Lantern Festival day at the North Gate entrance of Xixi Wetland. If crowds become too large, police may temporarily restrict traffic on Wen’er West Road (Yunqi to Hongde section) and Jiangdun Road (Qingchuan Street to Wen’er West Road section), which could also affect bus routes.

In addition, vehicles parked in the Fudi P1–P6 parking areas near the North Gate will not be allowed to exit after 16:00.

Plan Ahead for Lantern Festival Travel

Multiple lantern festival events will take place across Hangzhou during the Lantern Festival period, which is expected to bring heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic throughout the city. Authorities urge residents and visitors to plan their routes in advance, avoid peak hours, and follow on-site traffic guidance to ensure a safe and smooth trip.