Xiaoxihu Park (小西湖公园, Small West Lake Park), located in Lanzhou, was originally the garden of the Ming Dynasty prince Su. Initially named “West Garden,” it underwent reconstruction in 1880 under Governor Yang Changjun from Zhejiang, who renamed it “Xiaoxihu (Small West Lake)” to evoke memories of his homeland. The park originated from a natural lake covering about 5 square kilometers, teeming with various aquatic birds and fish amidst reeds resembling green curtains. Its most enchanting season is during the lotus bloom, when people enjoy moonlit boat rides.
Formally established in 1984 and opened to the public on October 1, 1987, Xiaoxihu Park is renowned for its water features. The lake area is divided into four sections: East Lake, Central Lake, West Lake, and the Lotus Pond on Xudao Island. Surrounding the lake, expansive lawns, ornamental plants, and a large-scale adjustable water curtain fountain adorn the eastern side. To the north lies the leisure area featuring a rose flower wall, Helan chrysanthemum garden, rose garden, bamboo groves, and cypress pavilion. Along the lakeshore, visitors enjoy fishing and boating amidst the melodies of willow branches.
Architectural highlights such as Jin Yin Jiao Ke, Hua Yue Shan Qing, Lan Xiu Tower, Liu Yin Pavilion, and Cui Yi Pavilion are strategically positioned amidst lush greenery and shimmering waters, adding to the park’s picturesque charm. Xudao Island and its waterside pavilions like Wo Bo Corridor and Luo Pavilion provide ideal settings for tea tasting, scenic appreciation, and artistic inspiration.
In the park’s western section, a modern 8,000-square-meter outdoor swimming pool complex offers deep pools, shallow pools, and a children’s play area. Adjacent to the pools are grassy areas with benches for visitors to relax and enjoy recreational activities.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 19.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0931-2613789 |
Location and Transportation
Xiaoxihu Park is located at No. 2 Xijin East Road, Qilihe District, Lanzhou City, Gansu Province, China. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 1, 2, 6, 13, 18, 31, 32, 50, 56, 58, 103, 106, 107, 111, 118, 130, 136, 137, 139, 158, K102, or K58 and get off at Xiaoxihu Stop (小西湖站).
Metro: The closest metro station to the park is Xiaoxihu (小西湖) on line 1. After getting out of the station from Exit A, walk about 200 meters to the east to reach the south gate of the park.
