Student Life at Zhejiang University
Life at Zhejiang University (ZJU) offers an incredible blend of academic excellence, vibrant campus culture, and the unique charm of Hangzhou — one of China’s most beautiful and dynamic cities. From modern dormitories to international student clubs, here’s what life as a ZJU student really looks like.
The ZJU Campuses
ZJU operates five main campuses across Hangzhou:
| Campus | Main Features | Programs Located Here |
|---|---|---|
| Zijingang (Main Campus) | Largest campus, modern facilities, main library, international student center | Most engineering & science programs |
| Yuquan Campus | Historic campus, close to West Lake | Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics |
| Xixi Campus | Located near Xixi Wetland Park | Agriculture, Life Sciences, Environment |
| Huajiachi Campus | Medical campus with attached teaching hospital | MBBS, Medicine, Nursing |
| Zhijiang Campus | Scenic riverside campus | Law, Humanities |
Accommodation
On-Campus Dormitories
International students are guaranteed on-campus accommodation for at least the first year. Options include:
- Single room: ¥1,000 – ¥1,500/month — private room, shared bathroom and kitchen
- Twin room: ¥500 – ¥800/month per person — shared room with another student
- International Student Apartments: ¥2,000 – ¥3,000/month — private studio with en-suite bathroom
All dormitories include: WiFi, air conditioning, heating, shared laundry facilities, and 24-hour security.
Off-Campus Housing
Many upper-year students choose to rent apartments near campus. Monthly rent ranges from ¥2,500 – ¥5,000 for a one-bedroom apartment. Popular areas include: Zijingang area, Gudang, and Wener Road.
Food & Dining
ZJU’s campus dining is affordable and diverse:
- Campus canteens: ¥15 – ¥35 per meal — Chinese cuisine with halal options
- International Student Cafeteria: Western and international dishes available at Zijingang campus
- Muslim canteens: Available on all major campuses
- Student food streets: Hefei Street near Zijingang offers cheap eats and bubble tea
Student Clubs & Organizations
With over 200 student clubs, there’s something for everyone:
- International Student Association (ISA) — organizes cultural events, trips, and social activities
- ZJU Sports Clubs — basketball, football, badminton, swimming, martial arts
- Chinese Culture Club — calligraphy, tea ceremony, Chinese painting
- Debate & Public Speaking Society — English and Chinese debate competitions
- Volunteer Programs — community service, environmental projects, teaching English
Sports & Recreation
ZJU has excellent sports facilities across all campuses:
- Olympic-standard swimming pools
- Indoor basketball and badminton courts
- Football fields and athletic tracks
- Fitness centers and yoga studios
- Tennis courts and table tennis halls
- Annual ZJU International Sports Day
Living in Hangzhou
Hangzhou consistently ranks as one of China’s best cities for quality of life:
- West Lake (Xihu): UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for jogging, cycling, and relaxing
- Public transit: Extensive metro system (12+ lines), buses, and bike-sharing
- Cost of living: Lower than Beijing and Shanghai — approximately ¥3,000 – ¥5,000/month including rent
- Weather: Four distinct seasons with mild winters and warm summers
- Tech hub: Home to Alibaba, NetEase, and thousands of startups — great internship opportunities
- Weekend trips: 1 hour to Shanghai by high-speed train, 2 hours to Nanjing, 3 hours to Beijing
International Student Support
- International Student Office (ISO): Visa, registration, and general support
- Chinese Buddy Program: Local Chinese students help international students adjust
- Counseling services: Free mental health support in multiple languages
- Career Center: Internship placements, job fairs, and career counseling
Top 5 Things to Do as a ZJU Student
- Cycle around West Lake at sunset
- Try Longjing (Dragon Well) tea at a traditional tea house
- Explore Hefang Street — the oldest commercial street in Hangzhou
- Visit Alibaba’s global headquarters in the Xixi district
- Take a weekend trip to the ancient water town of Wuzhen
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