A Poetic Paradise Amidst Lakes and Mountains: Qiandao Lake

🌊 Nestled in Chun'an County, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, lies a fairyland-like water wonder—Qiandao Lake, a dazzling pearl embedded in the Jiangnan region. With 1,078 emerald islands scattered across its mirror-like surface, the lake boasts crystal-clear waters and breathtaking natural scenery, earning its reputation as the undisputed "back garden" of the Yangtze River Delta. It’s a perfect getaway for relaxation and reconnecting with nature. Attraction Highlights ✨ 1. Central Lake Area - The core scenic zone of Qiandao Lake. Must-visit spots include **Meifeng Island** (take a one-way cable car for ¥25 to enjoy a panoramic "thousand-island vista"), family-friendly **Yule Island** (fish performances), and romantic **Moonlight Island** (ideal for couples’ strolls). - Ticket: ¥130 + ¥65 boat fee. Cruise departures: 8:00 AM–2:00 PM (rolling schedule). ✨ 2. Southeast Lake Area - Less crowded, photographer’s paradise! **Huangshan Summit** offers a "princess hat" viewpoint to capture the iconic "islands forming Chinese characters" (one-way cable car ¥50). **Tianchi Island** features peacock shows. - Ticket: ¥55 (includes boat ride). ✨ 3. Tianyushan Viewing Platform - Free! Drive directly or hike 20 minutes (or take a one-way escalator for ¥30) to the top for stunning views of Qiandao Lake Bridge and sunset hues—pure magic. ✨ 4. Qiandao Lake Forest Oxygen Bar - 95% forest coverage—a lung-cleansing haven! Walk trails or try the forest slide. Ticket: ¥55. ✨ 5. Wenyuan Lion City - A replica of an ancient submerged town, immersing visitors in Ming-Qing dynasty streetscapes. Ticket: ¥60. ✨ 6. Qinchuan Village - A 700-year-old ancient village with free admission, showcasing rustic Huizhou-style architecture. Food Recommendations 🍽️ 1. Qiandao Lake Fish Head Soup - A must-try! Creamy broth at **Yuweiguan** (3-hour stewed claypot fish, tender as tofu) or **Chunyuan Wai** (rich soup with handmade fish balls). Avg. ¥85–186/person. 🍽️ 2. Farmhouse Cuisine - **Fangji Dayuan**: Bamboo shoot with bacon, Tongjiang bream, corn pancakes—full of rustic charm. Avg. ¥70–100/person. 🍽️ 3. Local Snacks - Street-style *miguo* (savory/sweet fillings, chewy texture), *congbaohui* (crispy outside, soft inside), *dongmitang* (sweet crispy rice candy). Just ¥5–10! 🍽️ 4. Yejiaojiao - A local specialty made from kudzu root—unique texture worth sampling. Accommodation Picks 🏨 1. Luxury Resorts - **InterContinental Qiandao Lake**: Private peninsula with in-room hot springs + lake-view balconies. From ¥1,000/night. - **Ahn Luh**: Huizhou architecture + infinity pool. From ¥2,000/night—ultimate indulgence. 🏨 2. Budget-Friendly - **Manmade Resort by New Century**: Near Central Lake pier, family-friendly. ¥300–500/night. - **Wenxin Island Delon Hotel**: Lake-view rooms + outdoor movies. ¥200–400/night—max coziness. 🏨 3. Unique Stays - **Xipo Qiandao Lake**: Converted factory with industrial-natural fusion. - **Xuanshan Yunju**: Bike-friendly B&B, perfect for slow travel. Travel Tips 📅 Best Time to Visit - Apr–Jun/Sep–Nov: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds. Jul–Aug: Summer fun (busier). Dec–Feb: Serene, chance of snow. 🚗 Transportation - 🚗 Drive: ~2.5hrs from Hangzhou, scenic route. - 🚄 HSR: Hangzhou East → Qiandao Lake Station (1hr), then taxi/tourist shuttle. - 🚌 Bus: Direct from Hangzhou West Bus Station (~3hrs). ⚠️ Notes - Attractions are pricey—pack snacks. Best photo light: cruises before 10 AM or after 4 PM. - Qiandao Lake is a protected water source—no swimming/littering. Help preserve its purity! 🗺️ Itinerary Ideas - **2-Day Trip** - D1: Central Lake (Meifeng + Yule Islands) → Tianyushan sunset → Qilong Lane night market. - D2: Forest Oxygen Bar → lakeside cycling → depart. - **3-Day Trip** - D1: Southeast Lake (Huangshan Summit + Tianchi) → Wenyuan Lion City → farmhouse dinner. - D2: Kayaking → go-karting → stay at unique B&B. - D3: Longchuan Bay boating → leisurely return. #QiandaoLake #LakesAndMountains #ZhejiangTravel #TravelGuide