Have you ever longed to escape the bustling city? Then come to Qiandao Lake to experience a unique charm! Covered by forests over 81% of its area, Qiandao Lake boasts pristine waters and fresh air. Formed in 1959 as a result of the Xin’anjiang Hydroelectric Project, it is a relatively young lake. Dotted across its waters are 1,078 islands, each offering distinct seasonal beauty that is truly breathtaking. Abundant with fish, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery, dotted with tea bushes, mulberry trees (food for silkworms), and various fruit trees. Thousand Island Lake is also a prime destination for leisure and recreation. Here, you can admire natural landscapes, immerse yourself in local culture, observe wildlife, and participate in a variety of exciting activities.
Thousand Island Lake is located in Chun’an County, approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) west of Hangzhou City and about 140 kilometers (87 miles) southeast of Huangshan. It stands as a dazzling gem along the classic “Golden Route” connecting Hangzhou, Thousand Island Lake, and Huangshan, renowned worldwide. The lake is celebrated for its emerald-green mountains, crystal-clear waters, and unique caves and bizarre rock formations. The renowned Nongfu Spring water brand draws its name from this lake. The Qianhu Lake Scenic Area is divided into six distinct zones based on geography: the Southeast Lake Area (the earliest developed section), the Central Lake Area (featuring multiple must-see attractions), the Southwest Lake Area, the Northeast Lake Area, the Northwest Lake Area, and the Fuxi Stone Forest (the first stone forest in East China). Each zone offers unique and captivating landscapes.
The Southeast Lake Area features Tianchi (a quarry site from the Southern Song Dynasty), Xianshan Island, Guihua Island, and Mishan Island (the origin of the tale “One male, one female; two males, half a male; three males, not a male”). The Central Lake Area features Qian Dao Lake Fishing Village, Meifeng Island, the Five Dragons Scenic Area, and the Wildlife Reserve. On Meifeng Island, you can overlook the lake and mountain scenery while enjoying grass sledding and boating. The Five Dragons Scenic Area comprises Lock Island, Bird Island, Zhenqu Garden, and Stone Island, connected by multiple bridges. Lock Island is a world of locks, including happiness locks, wisdom locks, health locks, and carp locks. China’s first lock museum is located here, housing the Guinness World Record-certified largest lock—the Security Lock. In the animal zone, you can observe peacocks, snakes, monkeys, and ostriches. Enjoy animal shows, feeding sessions, playtime, and photo opportunities to fully immerse yourself in the joy of interacting with wildlife.
The best time to visit Qiandao Lake is during autumn and winter, when rainfall is minimal, the weather is clear, the air is fresh and cool, and the lake waters are crystal clear—truly a refreshing experience. Be sure to sample the distinctive local seafood and other regional delicacies. You can also bring home souvenirs such as inkstones, hemp embroidery, and pearl products.
Thousand Island Lake is currently China’s largest forest park, having received numerous accolades and widespread acclaim from domestic and international visitors. Why not come and see for yourself?