My Scented Memories of Hangzhou

Every university and city carries its own unique olfactory memories.

For Zhejiang University, that distinctive scent is a richly layered blend. After each rain, the grass at Zhejiang University releases a particularly vibrant aroma—especially around Lovers’ Slope and the athletic field on the Zijingang Campus. The air fills with the fresh, intense scent of rain-washed greenery, crisp and invigorating.

The sunlight at Xixi Campus seems to carry its own fragrance, especially during this special season, making me want to linger longer there. My classes were always scheduled around noon, and each time I walked from the main teaching building to catch the shuttle, I felt the sunlight gently filtering through the leaves, casting dappled patterns on the brick paths beneath my feet.

During exam weeks, the air is filled with the comforting scent of coffee everywhere. The rich aroma of Toffee Nut Crunch Latte—with its sweet, nutty notes—blends perfectly with the familiar coffee fragrance wafting from Mysweet, mingling alongside the warm, toasty smell of freshly baked bread. These scents leave a lasting impression on me every time.

Additionally, the scent of sweet osmanthus after an autumn rain is another unforgettable aroma at Zhejiang University. Near the East One teaching building and around Danyang Qingxi Academy, the air is filled with the delicate fragrance of osmanthus blossoms. That sweet scent mingles with the cool autumn air, more intense and enchanting here than any I had experienced before arriving at Zhejiang University.

Manjuelong, a place renowned for its osmanthus. The day before, heavy rain had fallen, scattering osmanthus blossoms across the ground. When we arrived, vendors lined both sides of the roads, selling an array of osmanthus treats—cakes, milk tea, coffee, candies, and even scented sachets and honey. Surrounded by the rich, lingering fragrance, I felt completely enveloped by the season’s gift. Manjuelong’s osmanthus aroma truly felt like nature’s present.

All in all, I would say all of this fragrance will stay in my heart forever.