What are the must-do activities when traveling? Ticking off famous landmarks, snapping photos at iconic sites, or indulging in local flavors? Hangzhou offers visitors a fresh angle by unveiling six new City Walk routes that spotlight ancient and notable trees—inviting everyone to explore the city’s rich cultural and natural heritage beneath a canopy of greenery.

At the famous Lingyin Scenic Area, the 1-kilometer route connects cultural landmarks and 45 ancient trees from 11 different species, such as sawtooth oaks, ginkgos, and camphor trees—five of which are over 500 years old and classified as first-grade protected trees. Each tree is accompanied by an informational sign, and visitors can scan a QR code to learn more about conservation efforts and ecological awareness.

Many visitors shared that only now do they realize the dedicated care behind these living relics, thanks to the contributions made by arborists, ecologists, and conservationists. Without the trees, the area would be much hotter and less inviting, making it harder to truly connect with the history and scenery. The ancient architecture would also lose much of its poetry and charm without the quiet presence of these timeless giants.