Thousand Island Lake

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Spot Introduction

Thousand Island Lake, located in Chun’an County, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, is a man-made lake formed after the completion of the Xin’anjiang Hydropower Station. With a water area of 573 square kilometers and 1078 islands, it is a national AAAAA-level tourist attraction. Known for its clear lake water, numerous islands, beautiful mountain scenery, and fresh air, it is praised as the “most beautiful water in the world”.

Thousand Island Lake is not only a tourist destination but also an important ecological protection zone. The water quality here meets the national first-level standard and is a significant source of drinking water. The forest coverage rate in the lake area is over 90%, making it a natural gene bank for rare aquatic organisms. The air is rich in negative oxygen ions, earning it the reputation of a “natural oxygen bar”.

The most noteworthy attractions include: the exquisite island group in the central lake area, where you can take a boat tour to admire the lake and mountain scenery; the primeval forest and observation deck of the Forest Park; the unique geological structure of Longshan Island; the leisure facilities of Moonlight Island; the traditional fishing culture of Yule Island; and the excellent viewing location of Meifeng Island. Each season offers different scenery: spring for mountain flowers, summer for clear water, autumn for red leaves, and winter for clouds and fog, making it beautiful in all four seasons.

Must-visit Attractions

  1. Central Lake Area

    • The most exquisite scenic area of Thousand Island Lake, gathering the most representative islands
    • Take a cruise to tour the large and small islands, enjoying the lake and mountain scenery
    • Equipped with multiple viewing platforms for panoramic photos
    • The water is crystal clear, allowing you to see schools of fish swimming
    • Suggested visiting time: 180 minutes, preferably on a sunny morning

  2. Forest Park

    • Located in the eastern part of the lake area, it is an important ecological protection zone
    • The park is filled with towering ancient trees.

景点介绍

丰富植被区域

  • Equipped with an observation deck, overlooking the panorama of Qiandao Lake
  • Ideal for hiking and forest bathing
  • Suggested visiting time: 120 minutes, recommended for morning or evening visits
  1. Longshan Island
  • One of the largest islands in Qiandao Lake, with a unique terrain
  • An observation platform with excellent views is built on the island
  • One can observe the unique geological structure
  • Equipped with a science popularization exhibition area, introducing the formation history of Qiandao Lake
  • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes, including boat travel
  1. Moonlight Island
  • A boutique island suitable for leisure and vacation
  • Equipped with various water entertainment facilities
  • One can enjoy the moonlight on the lake in the evening
  • There are specialty restaurants and leisure facilities on the island
  • Suggested visiting time: 120 minutes, with an option to stay
  1. Yule Island
  • A thematic island to experience traditional fishing culture
  • Visitors can participate in fishing and taste fresh lakefood
  • Equipped with a fishing culture exhibition hall
  • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes
  1. Meifeng Observation Island
  • One of the best viewing spots in Qiandao Lake
  • The altitude is moderate, and the climbing difficulty is not high
  • Equipped with observation decks and resting facilities
  • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Optimal Touring Route
  • First day morning: Cruise on the central lake area → Longshan Island
  • First day afternoon: Meifeng Observation Island (to watch the sunset)
  • Second day morning: Hiking in the forest park
  • Second day afternoon: Entertainment and relaxation on Moonlight Island
  • It is recommended to choose a chartered boat or join a well-established tour
  1. Visit Schedule Arrangement
  • Depart before 8 am to avoid crowds
  • Take sun protection measures at noon and rest on the island
  • The evening is the best time for photography
  • It is recommended to stay one night to experience the night scene
  • Advance bookings for boat tickets and accommodation are required during peak seasons
  1. Practical Tips
  • Transportation advice: The scenic area is large, so it is recommended to charter a boat or join a group
  • Photography advice: Use a telephoto lens to capture distant views
  • Equipment advice: Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, swimming suit, sun hat
  • Supply advice: Bring enough drinking water and snacks

Transportation Guide

  1. External Transportation
  • Airplane: Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport → Qiandao Lake (approximately 2.5 hours by car)
  • Car: Hangzhou West Station → Qiandao Lake Passenger Transport Center (approximately 2 hours)
  • Self-drive: Directly reach via Hangqian Expressway, about 2 hours’ drive
  • Self-drive or chartered vehicles are recommended.

景点介绍

方便游览

  1. Transportation in the Scenic Area
    • Cruise ship: The main transportation for touring
    • Sightseeing bus: Available on some islands
    • Walking: The main way to explore island attractions
    • It is recommended to understand the sailing schedule and route beforehand

Surrounding Food Recommendations

  1. Qiandaohu Fish Head

    • Made from local specialty fish
    • Recommended restaurants include Yuwei Guan, Yumei Guan, and other established brands
    • Per capita consumption: 150-300 yuan

  2. Baiyu Stewed Tofu

    • A local specialty dish with delicious taste
    • Recommended at farmhouse inns or resort restaurants
    • Per capita consumption: 60-100 yuan

  3. Local Farmhouse Cuisine

    • Made from local seasonal ingredients
    • Recommended at island farmhouses
    • Per capita consumption: 50-80 yuan

  4. Hickory Nut

    • A local specialty, great for souvenirs
    • Recommended to buy from formal stores
    • Price: 50-200 yuan per jin

Special Reminders

  1. Safety Precautions

    • Stay safe when boarding, follow staff instructions
    • Wear a life jacket for water activities
    • Be careful of slips when hiking on the island
    • Protect yourself from sun and heat

  2. Weather Preparedness

    • Keep an eye on the weather forecast
    • Adjust itinerary during rainy days
    • Bring sunscreen and rain gear
    • Avoid traveling in strong winds and heavy rain

  3. Photography Tips

    • The best lighting is early morning or late afternoon
    • Observation decks at high points are suitable for panoramas
    • Keep cameras away from water
    • It is recommended to bring a tripod

  4. Travel Suggestions

    • Avoid swimming alone
    • Prepare insect repellent
    • Bring enough drinking water
    • Prepare medication for seasickness

  5. Other Tips

    • Scenic area tickets are expensive, consider buying a package
    • Book accommodations ahead of time during peak seasons
    • Prepare cash, as some places don’t accept cards
    • Protect the environment