Lanxi, in Zhejiang, China, is uniquely defined by the ancient Zhuge Bagua Village, a living labyrinth designed in the form of the eight trigrams from Chinese cosmology. This rare, preserved geomantic layout blends rural life with strategic military history, making Lanxi the only place where traditional Chinese metaphysics is embedded into the actual structure of a functioning village.

Destinations

Travel Tips & Planning

General City Overview
Notable points about Lanxi
- Lanxi, Zhejiang is uniquely defined by the striking Lan River confluence, where the blue Lanjiang and green Jinlan rivers meet, creating a rare dual-colored spectacle.
- Unlike most cities in Zhejiang, Lanxi retains a strong rural character with ancient water towns like Zhuge Village, laid out in the unique Bagua (Eight Trigrams) feng shui pattern.
- The best time to visit is late March to May, when spring blossoms fill Lanjiang Park and the weather is ideal for river cruises and rural exploration.
- Lanxi is more affordable than nearby Hangzhou or Yiwu, offering budget-friendly hotels, hearty local meals, and low-cost transport options for backpackers and families.
- Visitors shouldn't miss the shadow puppet performances in local tea houses—an age-old art still alive in Lanxi's countryside cultural centers.
- Try the signature dish “Lanxi tofu skin roll” (兰溪豆皮卷), especially at small family-run eateries around Chengdong or Lanjiang subdistricts for the freshest taste.
- Public buses connect most sights, but the best way to explore Lanxi’s scenic countryside and ancient villages is by renting an electric scooter at the main bus station.
- Check out the underrated Youbu Ancient Town, a peaceful riverside spot filled with wooden houses, mossy stone bridges, and locals playing cards under lantern-lit corridors.
- Lanxi is generally safe, but few people speak English—download a translator app and learn a few Mandarin phrases to navigate markets and bus routes more smoothly.
- Take a sunset bamboo raft ride on the Lan River, where mist rises between green hills and rivers merge—an unforgettable moment that feels lifted from a Chinese painting.
Summarized User Reviews
Walking along the Lan River at sunset feels like stepping into a watercolor painting. Peaceful, quiet, timeless.
Cute town with beautiful countryside, but a bit too sleepy if you're used to bigger cities. Bring your own buzz.
The Zhuge Bagua Village nearby is absolutely mind-blowing if you're into history and geomancy—don't miss it!
Food options were limited unless you love noodles and tofu. Also, not much nightlife for younger travelers.
Took my parents to visit the old water town section—watching their nostalgia kick in was worth the whole trip.
Interactive Word Cloud for Lanxi