On summer nights in Hangzhou, the heat and noise of the day fade away, and the city takes on a dreamy look. Many parks shine like gems in the night, each with its own charm. Let’s explore some of Hangzhou’s best parks to enjoy after dark and see a different side of the city.

Hangzhou Grand Canal Steelworks Park has won the Outstanding Award at the 2024 World Landscape Architecture (WLA) Awards. It is built on the former Hanggang Steel Factory site, where massive steel structures and blast furnaces have been carefully preserved.These industrial relics blend with green lawns, scenic walking paths, and instagrammable spots, creating a landmark rich in both history and beauty.

As night falls, amber lights bathe the structures in a warm golden glow, giving the park a magical atmosphere. What’s more, you can ride a brick-red vintage train that slowly passes along a 150-meter decorative pool, where the water reflects the night lights. You can also enjoy activities like the VR Digital Adventure and a film-photography exhibition.

Tips

·Opening hours: Daily 9:00–22:00

·Lighting hours: Fri–Sun 19:00–21:00

·Mini Train (ticket required): Mon–Fri 17:00–20:30; Sat&Sun 16:00–21:00

Address: 240m south of Chenglian Street & Jiaobei Lane intersection, Gongshu District

With its Asian flower garden, “yellow duck” paddle boats, sunset beach, and urban camping area, Qianjiang Century Park feels like a hidden paradise among skyscrapers.

As the city lights come on, stroll along the riverside greenway with friends to enjoy sweeping views of the Qiantang River. When the riverside light show begins, watch the twinkling lights, listen to the waves, and soak in the dreamlike atmosphere.

Tips

· Light show: daily at 20:30; extra show on Fri & Sat at 19:30

· Schedule subject to change due to equipment testing, technical issues, or weather conditions. Occasional drone shows may be presented.

Address: No. 1 Guanlan Road, Xiaoshan District

Nicknamed “the art gallery without walls or ceiling,” Yuhu Park boasts a 1-km zigzag floating bridge, an art museum, a lakeside lawn campsite, a children’s playground, and a water-sports club. It is both a lake district integrated into the city and a vibrant hub of culture and commerce.

As the city lights come on, it's pleasant to stroll along the riverside greenway with friends to enjoy sweeping views of the Qiantang River. When the riverside light show begins, watching the twinkling lights and listening to the waves will soak yourself in the dreamlike atmosphere.

Tips

·Musical fountain (summer): 19:30 & 20:30 daily (canceled in bad weather)

·Light show (summer): 19:30–20:45 (canceled in bad weather)

Address: Intersection of Hangxing Road & Liangyun Street, Yuhang District (50m from Exit C, Hangxing Road Metro Station)