Just 1.5 hours from Hangzhou! I found a hidden gem in a landscape painting!

Seeking a moment of peace, I stumbled upon a hidden gem called "Freedom Valley". The moment the character "freedom," etched on the weathered stone wall, caught my eye, it resonated deep within my soul—a longing, fragmented by the hustle and bustle of city life, found a tangible anchor in this valley of western Zhejiang. Stepping onto the moss-covered stone steps, I delved deeper, surrounded by swaying bamboo shadows and an ancient silence, where even time seemed to tread softly. Perhaps true freedom lies in such unexpected encounters with tranquility. 🎫 Tickets: 44 yuan, tickets + coffee/milk tea package: 68 yuan 🕐 Opening hours: 8:30–16:30 🚗 Directions 1.5-hour drive from Hangzhou (navigate to "Tonglu Qinxi Xianggu") Approx. 30-minute taxi ride from Tonglu High-Speed Railway Station 📸 Must-see spots 1. Cliffside Tea Room: 270° panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows offer a fairyland view when surrounded by clouds and mist. Redeem a drink and enjoy the lush green mountains. 2. Riverside Camping Area: Bring your own gear and camp for free, falling asleep to the sound of the stream. 3. Art Installations: Scattered throughout the valley, the giant bamboo art pieces are perfect for photos. 4. Hiking Trails: Three forest trails of varying difficulty lead to wild waterfalls, with streams, rapids, and wooden bridges along the way. 5. Zhuangyuan Cave Adventure: Explore a natural cave, perfect for kids, cool in the summer, but with narrow passages, so consider accessibility. 6. Temple: A quiet temple located at the exit of Zhuangyuan Cave offers free blessings. 7. Descent: Walk down the mountain (it's not very high) or experience the zipline through the forest for a unique adventure. 🍜 Food Guide 1. Bamboo Forest Chicken Soup (local free-range chicken) 2. Tonglu Rice Cakes (freshly made) 3. Mountain Spring Cold Brew Tea (directly from the tea fields) 💡 Tips 1. Wear non-slip shoes! Some sections of the path are undeveloped. 2. Bring mosquito repellent and a light jacket. 3. Best seasons: April–June / September–November ✨ This is not a trendy check-in spot, but a healing space where you can truly slow down. Wake up to birdsong in the morning, daydream by the stream in the afternoon, and fall asleep under the stars at night—the beauty of Freedom Valley awaits your discovery. 💖 Follow me, let's journey towards freedom together!