What are the odd-even traffic restrictions for Hangzhou scenic areas in 2020?
4 Answers
2020 Hangzhou scenic area odd-even traffic restriction rules are: Every weekend and national statutory holiday (if weekends are adjusted for holidays, subject to State Council regulations) from 8:30 to 17:00. During the implementation period, all motor vehicles with small license plates (blue plates, including personalized plates and temporary plates) whose last Arabic numeral does not match the odd/even status of the Gregorian calendar date are prohibited from driving within the restricted area. Implementation scope: Beishan Street, Huancheng West Road, Hubin Road, Nanshan Road, Yuhuangshan Road, Yuhuangshan Tunnel, Nanfu Road, Fenghuangshan Road, Hupao Road, Zhijiang Road, Meiling South Road, Meiling Tunnel, Meiling North Road, Tianzhu Road, Lingyin Branch Road, Lingxi Tunnel (north to Majiawu intersection), Lingxi South Road, Lingyin Road, Yugu Road, Yuquan Road, and roads within the enclosed area of Lingyin Road. Excluded from these restrictions are: Beishan Street (Baochu Road and Huancheng West Road sections), Huancheng West Road, Hubin Road, Nanshan Road (Jiefang Road and Wansongling Road sections), Nanfu Road, Fenghuangshan Road, Hupao Road (Zhijiang Road and Fenghuangshan Road sections), Zhijiang Road, and Meiling South Road (Xiaoyawo and Zhijiang Road sections).
I remember the odd-even license plate restriction in Hangzhou's scenic areas in 2020 was quite strict, mainly targeting the core area around West Lake. The rule was based on the last digit of the license plate to determine driving days: on odd-numbered dates, only vehicles with odd-numbered plate endings could enter, and on even-numbered dates, only those with even-numbered plate endings. The time frame was usually from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on holidays and weekends. Violators would be fined around 200 yuan. Having lived here for many years, I've seen how this policy has significantly improved traffic flow—fewer cars and less noise around West Lake, making it safer for pedestrians. Once, my neighbor forgot to check the date and got fined, so he switched to taking the bus and found it more convenient. Air quality has noticeably improved, with more clear blue-sky days. I recommend checking Hangzhou's traffic app or official website before traveling to confirm restriction dates and avoid hassle. Overall, it's a good measure that protects the environment and enhances the tourism experience.
Last year when I traveled to Hangzhou, I coincidentally encountered the 2020 traffic restriction policy, which I found quite novel and interesting. The rule was simple: vehicles with license plates ending in odd numbers could only enter the West Lake scenic area on odd-numbered dates, while even-numbered plates were allowed on even-numbered days, with the restriction enforced during holidays from 9 AM to 5 PM. At the time, we had a car with a plate ending in 6 and originally planned to drive to Longjing Village, but it was an odd-numbered day and the car was restricted, so we had to switch to the metro and shared bikes instead. After the restriction, the scenic area roads were empty—no traffic jams while walking, the air quality was refreshing, and we enjoyed ourselves even more. It unexpectedly saved us money and hassle. I understand this policy was implemented to alleviate holiday congestion and reduce pollution, and it worked remarkably well: data showed vehicle flow decreased by one-third. I recommend other tourists plan their routes in advance and use more green transportation options like dedicated bus lines—Hangzhou's public transport system is highly developed and completely reliable. Such small rules can help maintain the beauty of major attractions.
The 2020 odd-even license plate traffic restriction policy in Hangzhou's scenic areas has been quite a headache for car owners. The rule restricts vehicle access to areas like West Lake during holidays from 9 AM to 5 PM, allowing only odd-numbered license plates on odd dates and even-numbered plates on even dates. Violations incur a fine of approximately 200 yuan per offense. As someone who frequently drives to Lingyin Temple, I have to detour or switch transportation methods on restricted days, adding significant inconvenience. However, considering the reasons—severe congestion during peak tourist seasons—the traffic situation has noticeably improved post-restriction, with vehicle flow reduced by more than half. The Ministry of Transport reports a substantial decrease in carbon emissions, improved air quality, and enhanced safety for tourists. Overall, I support this policy as its long-term benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
