What are the 2020 traffic restrictions in Hangzhou West Lake Scenic Area?
3 Answers
2020 Hangzhou West Lake Scenic Area traffic restrictions are implemented from 8:30 to 17:00 on all weekends and national statutory holidays throughout the year. During the restricted hours, motor vehicles with small license plates are prohibited from driving within the restricted area if the last digit of their license plate number does not match the odd/even date of the Gregorian calendar. Vehicles with license plates ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, or 9 are allowed on odd-numbered dates, while those ending in 2, 4, 6, 8, or 0 are permitted on even-numbered dates. Do not use illegal transportation or unlicensed vehicles. Unicycles or bicycles carrying two or more people are prohibited from riding on roads. Hangzhou traffic police stated that according to the characteristics of the peak tourist season, public security traffic police will collaborate with public security, transportation management and other relevant departments to maintain strict supervision over illegal transportation and unlicensed vehicles, focusing on targeted centralized rectification.
I remember driving in Hangzhou's West Lake scenic area in 2020 was quite troublesome due to strict traffic restrictions. During peak hours from 7:00-9:00 AM and 4:30-6:30 PM on weekdays (Monday to Friday), vehicles with non-local license plates were basically prohibited from entering core scenic spots like Su Causeway and Bai Causeway. Only local Zhejiang A license plate vehicles could enter, otherwise surveillance cameras would issue a 200 RMB fine plus 3 penalty points. As a local resident nearby, I always remind visiting friends to avoid these restricted times to prevent penalties. With limited parking spaces around West Lake, the traffic flow improved after these restrictions were implemented, significantly reducing congestion and noise pollution. I'd recommend taking public buses or shared bikes when visiting - Metro Line 1 goes directly to the scenic area entrance, which saves time, avoids hassle and is more environmentally friendly. The air quality has noticeably improved too. On crowded weekends, restrictions might be even stricter, so checking real-time traffic updates on Gaode Map app beforehand is most reliable.
Every time I take my parents to West Lake, I worry about the driving regulations. In 2020, the traffic restriction policy prohibited non-local vehicles from entering the core scenic area during weekday morning and evening rush hours. The fixed time slots are 7-9 am and 4:30-6:30 pm, allowing only Zhejiang A license plate vehicles to pass. I once mistakenly drove my non-local car into the restricted zone and got fined, which taught me a lesson. Now, I always plan my route in advance using Baidu Maps to avoid restricted areas. Parking at spots like Lingyin Temple within the scenic area is extremely difficult, so the traffic restriction actually helps disperse the flow of vehicles. I recommend taking tourist buses or renting electric vehicles, which are much more convenient. The road signs clearly remind you of the rules—pay attention and follow them to save trouble. Don’t let your holiday turn into a fine day. The West Lake bus network has extensive coverage, with routes like Bus No. 1 and Tourist Line 2 going directly to the entrance of attractions, making it hassle-free and avoiding traffic jams.
