If you are fascinated by ancient human history, you must explore the Kuahuqiao site, located near Xianghu village in suburban Hangzhou, China. Situated near where the Qiantang River meets Hangzhou Bay, this remarkable early Neolithic destination boasts an 8,000-year history. As you learn about the unique Kuahuqiao culture, you will discover a fascinating world that was suddenly deluged by rising sea levels around 7,550 years ago.
When you visit, you will gain insight into how ancient villagers built a community of wooden stilt dwellings over marshy wetlands. You can marvel at incredible unearthed treasures, including stoneware, unglazed ceramics, sophisticated painted pottery crafted with wild rice as a bonding agent, and exquisite jade artifacts. The site offers a direct glimpse into humanity's earliest agricultural breakthroughs, featuring evidence of paddy rice cultivation from 7,700 years ago alongside domesticated pigs, dogs, and the earliest known domesticated peaches.
Do not miss learning about the site's celebrated dugout canoe, which demonstrates the earliest watercraft construction technology found in China and potentially the entire world. Recognized as one of China's most significant archaeological discoveries, Kuahuqiao delivers a truly rare, honest look into deep human heritage.
What to see at Kuahuqiao
- Ancient dugout canoe showcasing early watercraft technology
- Earliest evidence of paddy rice cultivation and domesticated peaches
- Painted pottery crafted with wild rice bonding material
- Remains of an 8,000-year-old stilt-dwelling community
- Varied jade, stone, and wooden prehistoric artifacts
Visiting tips
Take time to appreciate how rising sea levels preserved these delicate 8,000-year-old organic relics near Xianghu village.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Kuahuqiao is easy to reach on Hangzhou’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Phoenix Mosque and Zhejiang Provincial Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Hangzhou travel guide.
See the full Hangzhou travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.