1. Things To Know Before You Go
Qiandao Lake is situated in Chun'an County, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, it represents the largest artificial lake in China, spanning an area of 982 square kilometers, among which the lake area accounts for 573 square kilometers. Owing to its distinctive geographical position, Qiandao Lake has emerged as the backyard garden of the Yangtze River Delta region. It lies 129 kilometers to the east of Hangzhou and 140 kilometers to the west of Huangshan, its genesis can be traced back to the construction of the Xin'anjiang Hydropower Station in the 1950s. At present, it has evolved into a comprehensive tourist resort that combines natural scenery, cultural heritages and recreational amenities, thus attracting a large numbers of tourists at home and abroad for a visit.
2. Why Is Qiandao Lake So Special?
Qiandao Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear blue water that seems like a huge emerald inlaid among the mountains. In the morning, when the first ray of sunlight shines on the lake surface, the golden radiance and the lake water complement each other, presenting a breathtakingly beautiful scene. At dusk, the afterglow of the setting sun spreads over the lake together with the distant mountains to form a magnificent landscape painting. There are 1,078 islands of varying sizes in the lake, each with its own unique shape. Some look like emeralds inlaid in the lake, while others resemble small mountain peaks towering above the water. When tourists climb onto the islands, they may overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire Qiandao Lake. In particular, Meifeng Island, as the highest point of Qiandao Lake, is the best place to view its panoramic view and is very well worth a visit for tourists.
2.1 The Tangible Benefits Bring To Tourists
The benefits of visiting Qiandao Lake for tourists are mainly reflected in the following aspects.
Beautiful natural scenery are suitable for sightseeing and photography
Qiandao Lake is famous for its clear waters and green mountains, the lake water is crystal - clear and the islands are scattered all over. The scenery in the morning and evening is particularly enchanting. By climbing onto Meifeng Island or Huangshan Peak, tourists can overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire Qiandao Lake resort and experience the grandeur and magic of nature. In addition, Qiandao Lake has excellent water quality, fresh air, and a high content of negative oxygen ions, making it an ideal natural oxygen bar.
Abundant tourism projects and activities
It offers a variety of tourism projects and activities suitable for tourists with different needs in Qiaodao Lake. Water sports enthusiasts can experience activities such as sailing and wakeboarding at the Qiandao Lake Sailing Center, or enjoy the excitement of the Water World on Yule Island. Tourists who prefer tranquility can choose to go fishing by the lake or rent a boat to tour the lake, experiencing the gentleness and tranquility of the lake. Moreover, Qiandao Lake is also euipped with rich cultural projects, such as visiting the Hai Rui Memorial Temple and Wenyuan Lion City to learn about the local history and culture.
Good experience in catering and accommodation
Visiting Qiandao Lake during the off - season significantly improves the experience of catering and accommodation. Tourists can enjoy the comfort and coziness at a more economical price, the special delicacies of Qiandao Lake, such as organic fish head, rice pudding, and rice cakes, are also experiences not to be missed.
Suitable for physical and mental cultivation
There is fresh air, excellent water quality and a pleasant climate to make it an ideal leisure destination. Visitors can go for a stroll, go cycling, or go fishing here, enjoying the peaceful time. In addition, there are many hot spring resorts around Qiandao Lake to provide visitors the high - quality services and experiences.
2.2 Attractions Overview
2.2.1 Geographical Features
Qiandao Lake is an artificial lake formed for the construction of the Xin'anjiang Reservoir and the dam blocked the upper reaches of the Xin'anjiang River after the completion, forming a huge lake. The high mountains and lofty ridges were submerged in the lake, becoming 1,078 islands with various sizes, hence it got its name "Qiandao Lake" . Qiandao Lake resort is divided into six tourist areas: the Southeast Lake Area, the Central Lake Area, the Northwest Lake Area, the Southwest Lake Area, the Northeast Lake Area and the Shilin Scenic Area.
2.2.2 Tourism Resources
There exist abundant tourism resources and diverse recreational activities. Visitors can drive along the ring road of Qiandao Lake, enjoying the lake views and mountain scenery. They can experience the joy of fishing at the fish farms around Qiandao Lake, indulge in various water entertainment projects at the Qiandao Lake Water Park, take a stroll along the Qiandao Lake Landscape Gallery to appreciate the uncanny workmanship of nature, and visit Nanhu Island and Meifeng Island in Qiandao Lake to feel the integration of nature and humanity. In addition, there are many hot - spring resorts here , allowing tourists to escape the hustle and bustle of the city life by soaking in the hot springs and relaxing themselves here.
3. How To Get To Qiandao Lake
The transportation methods to Qiandao Lake are as follows
By plane and high - speed train
By plane: You can first fly to Xiaoshan International Airport in Hangzhou. Then, take a high - speed rail or a bus from the airport to Qiandao Lake.
By high - speed rail: Take the high - speed rail from Hangzhou East Station to Qiandao Lake Station, and it takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes.
By bus
Departing from Hangzhou West Bus Station to Qiandao Lake and it takes about 2 - 3 hours, and the ticket price ranges from 65 to 75 yuan.
There are also buses from other cities such as Shanghai, Nanjing and Huangshan to Qiandao Lake directly.
By self - driving
The distance from Hangzhou to Qiandao Lake by self - driving is approximately 160 kilometers, and it takes about 2.5 hours for driving. The round - trip toll is about 150 yuan. The advantage of self - driving is that tourists can stop at any time to enjoy the scenery along the way.
Transportation methods after arriving at Qiandao Lake
By cruise: There are boat services to major scenic spots in the Central Area and the Southeast Area of Qiandao Lake Resort, you can board the boat from various docks.
By public transportation: Bus No. 4 and Bus No. 7 can reach the Central Lake, taxis are also an alternative way to arrive different scenic area in a convenient way.
By renting a car or bicycle: You can rent a car or a bicycle in Qiandao Lake Town and enjoy the pleasure of cycling around the lake.
Tips: To go to the Central Lake Area of Qiandao Lake, you need to go to the New Tourism Dock. To go to the Southeast Lake Area, you need to go to the Southeast Lake Area Dock. The two docks are not in the same place, and they are more than 8 kilometers apart. At the Qiandao Lake Passenger Transport Center, tourists can take Bus No. 7 to reach the Central Lake Tourist Dock, and Bus No. 6 to reach the Southeast Lake Area Dock.
4. Highlights Of Qiandao Lake
Qiandao Lake is divided into six main tourist areas: the Southeast Lake Area, the Central Lake Area, the Northwest Lake Area, the Southwest Lake Area, the Northeast Lake Area, and the Shilin Scenic Area. Among them, the Central Lake Area and the Southeast Lake Area are the core scenic spots of Qiandao Lake, with numerous islands available for sightseeing.
4.1 Central Area Of Qiandao Lake
The Central Lake Area is a part of Qiandao Lake, well-known for its verdant mountains, clear waters, fascinating caves, unique rocks, and friendly people. It covers a vast area and is dotted with 1,078 emerald - green islands, the reflections of the distant mountains in the lake seem like a painting.
The Central Lake Area is the best place for a boat tour and also the optimal spot to enjoy the panoramic view of Qiandao Lake from a distance. The lake bays are deep and full of charm, presenting a colorful and magnificent scenery.
External Transportation: From Hangzhou West Bus Station to Qiandao Lake Bus Station, it takes about 3 hours.
Internal Transportation: After arriving at Qiandao Lake, tourists can reach the Central Area of Qiandao Lake by boat.
Tourism Information of the Central Lake Area of Qiandao Lake
Admission Ticket+ Boat Ticket: 150 yuan per person (entrance ticket) + 65 yuan per person (boat ticket) = 215 yuan per person
Children's Ticket: For children between 1.2 - 1.5 meters, half - price entrance ticket at 75 yuan per person + 35 yuan per person (boat ticket) = 100 yuan per person; children under 1.2 meters are free.
Seniors' Ticket: With valid certificates, seniors over 70 years old are exempt from the entrance ticket.
If you want to arrange a tour for the next day, an additional handling fee of 10 yuan is required.
Luxury Yacht: 150 yuan per person
Central Lake: Cruise time 08:00-14:20, yacht time 08:00-15:30
4.1.1 Meifeng Island 梅峰岛
Meifeng Island is the best place to overlook the whole Qiandao lake and enjoy its panoramic view. Visitors can take a cable car to go up the mountain at the foot of the hill. At the top of Meifeng Island, there are an East Viewing Platform and a West Viewing Platform. Looking down from above, the islands are densely distributed, presenting an excellent view. Tourists can personally experience the artistic conception of green mountains, clear waters, and a golden - like belt.
Looking over the Qiandao Lake Resort, the islands are like plum blossoms floating on the water, and the scattered small islands are like stars in the Milky Way. The larger islands have criss - crossing bays. The saying "Without visiting Meifeng Island to view the archipelago, one can't truly recognize the true features of Qiandao Lake" is really well - deserved.
Transportation: Take a boat to the island at the Tourist Boat Center
Adult ticket for the Meifeng Island cableway: 60 RMB for a round - trip.
Meifeng Island is included in the entrance ticket of the Central Area of Qiandao Lake, so there is no need to buy a separate ticket for the island, but you need to take a boat to get there, so a boat ticket is required.
Opening Hours: 08:00 - 14:50
4.1.2 Yule Island 渔乐岛
Yule Island is truly a "Recreational Island". The moment you step onto the island, you'll be pleasantly surprised to find that all the facilities on the island are in the shape of fish. There are also very exciting water entertainment activities such as water motorcycles, bumper boats, water floating devices, and banana boats waiting for you. On this Island, an enormous pot is placed, which can be called "the No.1 Pot in Qiandao Lake".
4.1.3 Moonlight Island 月光岛
Moonlight Island is located in the Central Lake Area of Qiandao Lake composed of five islands. Among the five small islands, four themed islands are named "Love Garden", "Tie - Garden", "Heart Garden" and "Dream Garden" respectively. There is also an unnamed island, which is called the "Hermitage Garden" that seems to be beyond the mundane world. The entire island highlights the theme of love culture. With love as the thread and scenery as the support, it is full of poetic romance and unique charm.
4.1.4 Longshan Island 龙山岛
Longshan was originally a mountain, enjoying the reputation of "Tongqiao Bridge, Iron Well, Little Jinshan Mountain, Shixia Academy, and the lively Longshan". There is a Hai Rui Memorial Temple on the island. Hai Rui once served as the magistrate of Chun'an. As tourists climb up the steps from the Hai Rui Memorial Temple, they can enjoy the singing of birds, the fragrance of flowers, and the lush greenery of the trees. After walking along a stone - step path about five hundred steps, they can directly reach the Ninggu Bell Tower. There is an iron bell placed inside the tower, so tourists can strike the bell for fun, overlook the lake and mountain scenery, and even look across the water at Qiandao Lake Town so as to experience its beautiful scenery.
4.2 Southeast Lake Area Of Qiandao Lake
The Southeast Lake Area of Qiandao Lake is home to numerous islands, with flowers blooming throughout the four seasons. Tourists will feel extremely delightful when rowing a boat on the lake. It is a new - type ecological recreation area integrating natural ecology and health preservation.
Transportation: Take the Chun'an K011 bus or the Chun'an K012 circular - route bus and get off at the Southeast Tourist Dock (bus stop), then reach the destination on foot.
Tourism Information:
Entrance ticket + Boat ticket: 150 yuan per person (entrance ticket) + 45 yuan per person (boat ticket) = 195 yuan per person.
Children's ticket: For children between 1.2 - 1.5 meters, half - price entrance ticket at 75 yuan per person + 25 yuan per person (boat ticket) = 100 yuan per person.
Free tickets: Children under 1.2 meters / Seniors over 70 years old.
Luxury yacht: 160 yuan per person.
Southeast Lake Area: Tourist boat operating hours( 08:00 - 13:20), Yacht operating hours(08:00 - 15:00).
4.2.1 Forest Oxygen Bar In Qiandao Lake 千岛湖森林氧吧
Forest Oxygen Bar is located on the fringe of the Southeast Lake Area of Qiandao Lake. It features the finest forest vegetation, the most beautiful natural scenery and the best ecological environment. The scenic spot is divided into five major zones: the waterside leisure area, the teahouse leisure area, the forest negative - ion breathing area, the forest recreation area, the forest camping area, and the forest science - popularization area. Streams and waterfalls can be seen everywhere within the scenic area. Tourists can walk on rope bridges in the forest, take photos with peacocks, and enjoy activities such as grass skiing, experiencing various mountain pleasures while taking a forest bath.
Ticket Information:
Adult ticket: 55 RMB.
Half - price ticket: For minors with a height of 1.2 m (inclusive) to 1.5 m (exclusive).
Free ticket: For children under 1.2 m in height; for the elderly aged 70 and above.
Opening Hours: 08:00 - 17:00
4.2.2 Osmanthus Island 桂花岛
Osmanthus Island, also known as Longyang Mountain, covers an area of approximately 0.2 square kilometers. It is located two kilometers away from Mishan Island and is the earliest developed tourist attraction in Qiandao Lake. It gets its name from the wild osmanthus trees that grow in abundance on the island.
Osmanthus Island is mainly composed of three natural scenic areas: the pine forest area, the osmanthus area, and the rock area. What makes this place unique is that most of the wild osmanthus trees grow in the crevices of the rugged and diverse rocks, thus earning it the reputation of "the osmanthus branches convey a special deep affection". Osmanthus Island features a calcareous karst landform. During the process of natural evolution, it has been shaped into various wonderful landscapes, such as the Black Dragon Emerging from Water, the Fairy Dock in the Moon Palace, the Rhinoceros Roaring at the Sky, the Clear Waves Reflecting the Moon, the Heaven - reaching Stone Gate, the Flock of Goats Cave, the Lake - viewing Platform, making all of them really fascinating.
5. Suggested Tour Routes And Attractions
Recommended Itineraries
Three - day Itinerary
Day 1: After arriving at Qiandao Lake, visitors can first go to the hotel to check in and deposit their luggage. After a short rest, they can head to the Central Lake Area of Qiandao Lake to visit Meifeng Island, Longshan Island, Moonlight Island for appreciating the lake and island scenery. In the evening, visitors can go to Qilong Alley(骑龙巷) to taste local snacks and special delicacies.
Day 2: In the morning, tourists can go to the Beer Town to experience the charm of an European - style castle town and visit the Beer Museum to learn about the brewing history and culture of beer. In the afternoon, they can go to the Passionate Karting Track to experience the exciting karting project and go to the beautiful lighthouse to enjoy the beautiful sunset and have dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Day 3: Choose to rent a bicycle or an electric bike and ride along the Qiandao Lake cycling path to enjoy the beautiful scenery is a very good choice. They can pass by the Qiandao Lake Bridge, Tianyu Mountain Viewing Platform to watch the sunset.
Two - day Itinerary
Day 1: After arriving at Qiandao Lake, visitors can go to the Southeast Lake Area for visiting islands such as Osmanthus Island, Tianchi Island, and Huangshan Peak to experience their unique charm. In the evening, they can stay at a hotel in the town center of Qiandao Lake or near the Southeast Lake Area.
Day 2: In the morning, visitors can go to the Tianyu Mountain Viewing Platform to admire the panoramic view of Qiandao Lake and the beautiful sunrise. After that, they can go to Qinchuan Ancient Village for taking a stroll and feel the ancient Huizhou - style architecture and the simple local folk customs. In the afternoon, they can return to the hotel to pack luggage and get ready to return.
6. What To Do At Qiandao Lake
There is a wide variety of things for tourists to do when they visit Qiandao Lake, including enjoying natural landscapes, experiencing culture, exploring cuisine, and engaging in leisure activities.
Enjoying Natural Landscapes
Take a Boat Tour in the Central Lake Area: The Central Lake Area is the best place for a boat tour, where you can admire the breathtaking scenery of Qiandao Lake.
Watch the Sunrise: Wake up early to watch the sunrise over Qiandao Lake and the stunning beauty is unforgettable.
Climb High for a Panoramic View: Tianyu Mountain Viewing Platform is highly recommended and it offers a wide - open view, allowing you to overlook the entire Qiandao Lake. Most importantly, it's free of charge.
Cycle around the Lake: Cycling around the lake enables cyclists to breathe in fresh air and enjoy the beautiful lake and mountain scenery.
Cultural Experiences
Visit Wenyuan Lion City: Experience the charm of Hui- style architecture. It is advisable to go in the morning as the scenic area closes relatively early.
Explore Longshan Island: There is the Hai Rui Memorial Temple on the island, which is an excellent place for visitors to feel the historical culture.
Visit the Beer Museum: Learn about the beer - making process and taste various kinds of beer and it is suitable for family outings.
Cuisine Exploration
Taste Qiandao Lake Fish Head Soup: The fish head soup in Qiandao Lake is with a rich and mellow taste and a fragrant aroma, so it is a must - try delicacy.
Try Local Specialty Restaurants: Yuapo Restaurant(鱼阿婆餐厅) with the freshly caught and killed fish, so it tastes tender and delicious and the soup is extremely savory.
Taste Local Snacks: In the old street of Qilong Alley, there are many snack stalls and specialty stores waiting to be explored.
Leisure Activities
Kayaking: Tourists can go kayaking at the Hilton Kayaking Base and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Experience Karting: Feel the thrill of speed by experiencing karting at Humma Adventure Park.
Pick Fruits: Picking strawberries during March to May add much joy to life, it not only offers the pleasure of farming for visitors but also allows them to enjoy delicious fruits.
Go Rafting: Have an exciting and fun water activity by going rafting in Jiulongxi Stream(九龙溪).
7. Best Time To Go
The best seasons to visit Qiandao Lake are spring and autumn. Spring (from April to May) and autumn (from September to November) are the optimal periods for traveling to Qiandao Lake.
Spring (April - May)
Qiandao Lake in spring is full of vitality. The climate is warm with temperature ranging from 15 to 20℃, which is highly suitable for outdoor activities. At this time, the lake surface is as smooth as a mirror, the trees on the islands start to sprout, and the air is filled with the fragrance of flowers. Especially from the end of March to the beginning of April, the sea of rape flowers and the lake and mountain scenery complement each other, presenting a breathtaking view. Tourists can participate in farming experience activities such as tea - picking and bamboo - shoot digging, eventually enjoy the pleasures of rural life.
Autumn (September - November)
In autumn, Qiandao Lake is with clear and crisp weather. The lake water is deep blue and the maple leaves on the islands are as red as fire, making it the best time to appreciate the autumn scenery. The average temperature in Qiandao Lake during this period is between 12 - 18℃, with less rainfall, which is very suitable for tourists to travel. They can climb to a high place to overlook the scenery and experience the joy of harvest.
8. Food & Accommodation In Qiandao Lake
Food Recommendations
Fish Head in Qiandao Lake: This is the specialty dish of Qiandao Lake. The fish head is of tender meat and can be cooked by stewing, steaming or frying. The soup is delicious and rich in nutrition.
Chun'an Rice Balls: It is made from raw materials such as rice, chili peppers, fennel, and tangerine peel. With a rich flavor, it is a traditional delicacy in the Chun'an area.
Qiandao Lake Snails: It is a local special snack, the snails' meat is plump, delicate and tastes delicious.
Immortal Tofu: It is suitable for eating in summer and has a smooth taste. What's more, it has the effect of annealing, cooling and detoxification.
Whitebait Soup: The whitebait has tender and delicate meat, it is high in protein and low in fat. The whitebait soup tastes smooth and delicious, making it one of the local favorites.
Accommodation Recommendations
Downtown Area of Qiandao Lake Town: It is located near the Central Lake Area with complete surrounding supporting facilities, convenient transportation, and a wide range of entertainment and dining options.
It is recommended that tourists stay near Qiandao Lake Square, as there are buses to the docks of the Central Lake Area and the Southeast Lake Area, they can take bus K007 from the Passenger Transport Center to reach Qiandao Lake Square and Tourist Dock in the Central Lake Area. There is bus K006 from Qiandao Lake Square to the Southeast Lake Area Dock. Near Qiandao Lake Square, there is Shiyi Inn(拾忆客栈), where the price is quite affordable.
9. Useful Travel Tips
Tourism suggestions for Qiandao Lake include the following aspects
Main Scenic Spots
Tianyu Mountain Scenic Area: It is the best place in Qiandao Lake to watch the sunset. Tourists can either walk or take an elevator to go up the mountain, and then take a bus to come down. The second and the third viewing platforms offer better views.
Qiandao Lake Cycling Route: The cycling route is with a total length of about 60 kilometers. The scenery along the way is very pleasant, and tourists can enjoy the lake and mountain scenery as well as the rural landscape of Qiandao Lake.
Qinchuan Ancient Village: With a time-honored history of more than 700 years, it has retained a large number of ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The white walls and black tiles represent an antique flavor. Strolling through the village, tourists can feel the strong historical and cultural atmosphere.
Wenyuan Lion City: It was rebuilt based on the prototype of the thousand - year - old Lion City underwater. There are many ancient buildings, memorial archways and temples inside the city. Tourists can also experience traditional handicraft making and folk performances.
Huangshan Peak: Located in the Southeast Lake Area, it offers a bird's - eye view of the spectacular scene of "serve the public". It is recommended that tourists take a boat tour to view it at 9:15 in the morning.
Beer Town: Known as the "Little Europe" of Qiandao Lake, there is a Beer Museum, which is a great place for taking photos.
Featured Activities
Cycling around the Lake: Most hotels provide bike - rental services, with the price around 50 yuan per hour.
Rafting: There are several rafting spots in Qiandao Lake. However, tourists may get completely wet after the activity, so it is advisable to bring an extra piece of clothing.
Diving: Diving equipment can be rented, and non - professionals can get guidance from coaches there.
