Things To Do
in Lakoucun
Lakoucun is a tranquil riverside village nestled in a green belt near the Zhejiang coast. It blends traditional crafts, tea culture, and eco-tourism into a relaxed rural atmosphere. Winding canals and wooden waterwheels frame the town, with temples, tea houses, and markets adding color to daily life.
Visitors come for slow mornings, local markets, and easy access to nearby hills and forests.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by waking up to the tranquil sounds of nature and enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local specialties. After breakfast, explore the picturesque landscapes surrounding Lakoucun, taking a stroll through the lush hills and rice paddies that define this scenic village. Capture the early morning light and the vibrant colors of the countryside as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
In the afternoon, visit the local markets where you can interact with vendors and sample delicious street food unique to the region. Spend some time visiting local artisans who create traditional handicrafts, offering insights into their techniques and cultural significance. Don't forget to take a break at a nearby café to savor locally brewed tea while enjoying panoramic views of the village.
As the sun sets, prepare for an unforgettable evening by partaking in a traditional cooking class that allows you to learn the secrets behind Lakoucun's cuisine. Afterward, enjoy the fruits of your labor with a communal dinner alongside newly made friends, sharing stories and laughter. Conclude your day by stargazing on the outskirts of the village, where the dark skies reveal a breathtaking display of stars.
Begin your day with a visit to a local temple where you can meditate and immerse yourself in the spiritual practices of the community. Afterward, join a guided tour led by a local resident who will share fascinating tales about the village’s history and traditions. Take your time to appreciate the intricate architectural details before heading back for lunch.
Once you've refueled, devote your afternoon to participating in a traditional dance workshop, where you can learn the steps of folk dances while connecting more deeply with the culture. This interactive experience will be accompanied by live music that brings the village's traditions to life. After the workshop, explore the nearby fields that produce the famous aromatic teas of the region.
As dusk falls, take part in a communal storytelling session around a fire where villagers share legends and personal anecdotes of life in Lakoucun. Engage with the community, and perhaps you'll find inspiration for your own narratives. Finish the evening with a warm bowl of locally made noodles, enjoyed under a canopy of twinkling stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Vegetarian meal | $4-9 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-80 |
| 🚲Bicycle rental for a day | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil atmosphere with easy access to nature
- Rich local culture and crafts
- Friendly, close-knit community
- Good value for money
- Safe and walkable town center
- Limited nightlife and large-city amenities
- Less English-speaking services in remote areas
- Weather can be humid and rainy in parts of the year
- Public transport options may be sporadic between towns
- Some sites require short taxi rides or bikes to reach
- "你好" - Hello
- "请问厕所在哪里？" - Where is the restroom, please?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "可以用微信支付吗？" - Can I pay with WeChat Pay?
Places to Visit in Lakoucun
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light on the water and mist around the wooden water gates makes reflections ideal for long exposures.
A shaded trail through bamboo stalks leads to a hilltop viewpoint with sweeping valley views.
Warm lantern light and traditional tiled roofs create ambient scenes over the canal.
Food in Lakoucun
Lakoucun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught river fish steamed with ginger, scallions, and soy; best at family-run eateries near the canal.
Must-Try!
Shrimp glazed with a sweet osmanthus-scented honey sauce, commonly found in riverside houses.
Silky tofu braised with crunchy bamboo shoots and soy, a staple in village households.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Stalls offer fried dumplings, sesame pancakes, river snails, and seasonal greens. Try the fried rice noodle ribbons.
Night stalls along the embankment serving roasted corn, sweet potatoes, and spiced peanuts; great to sample as you stroll.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light nod or smile is common; address elders with respectful language and avoid loud conversations in temples.
Dress modestly, remove hats, speak softly, and show respect when observing ceremonies.
Wait to be seated in family-style meals; use both hands when handing objects; avoid pointing with chopsticks.
Safety
Tipping in Lakoucun
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most eateries; some higher-end places may appreciate a small tip; rounding up the bill is common in hotels.
WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted; carry some cash for markets and smaller vendors; most shops display QR codes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent showers; carry water, wear light clothing, and plan river trips early or late to avoid heat.
Mild days and cool nights; ideal for hikes and visiting tea plantations; expect golden sunsets.
Mild to cool with occasional drizzle; pack a light jacket and enjoy quiet temple visits and indoor markets.
Fresh greenery and blooming flowers; pleasant temperatures; some air moisture, so bring a light umbrella.
Lakoucun at Night
Hiking in Lakoucun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A forested ascent with misty mornings and rewarding valley views.
A gentle circuit around the village lake with birdlife and benches.
Walk through terraced fields with seasonal tea harvests and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Lakoucun by plane.
A regional hub about 60-90 minutes by road from Lakoucun, with domestic and limited international flights.
Close to the coast and ferries; convenient for visitors heading to coastal villages and islands.
Major international hub, about 2-3 hours by high-speed train or car; connects to many destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Han Chinese with a mix of aging population and young families; strong sense of community.
Seasonal workers who come for tea works, crafts, and construction; many live in nearby villages or shared housing.
Youth attending small temples and schools in the area; some enroll via regional programs.
Active seniors who participate in morning tai chi by the river and at markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular indoor sport in community centers and gyms.
Common in schools and clubs; casual games are a staple of evenings.
Local courts in park spaces and school yards host informal games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lakoucun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for tofu dishes, mushroom-based specialties, and fresh vegetable plates; communicate no meat or fish with simple Mandarin phrases; many places can accommodate with advance notice.