Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake)

Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake) lies about 150 km west of Hangzhou in Chun'an County, reached in 2-2.5 hours by direct coach or about 2 hours by hired car; there is no direct high-speed rail connection to the lake itself. The reservoir was formed in the 1950s by the damming of the Xin'an River and takes its name from the more than 1,000 forested islands that dot its surface, with water clear enough in places to be bottled and sold. A day trip typically starts at the Qiandao Lake pier in Chun'an town, where scenic boats depart for the most popular island groups, such as Meifeng Island for its viewing tower and panoramic lake views, or Snake Island and Bird Island for their wildlife-themed attractions. Because distances between islands are considerable, most visitors join a set boat-tour route covering two or three islands over a half-day, leaving the other half for a slower walk around the lakeside promenade near the pier or a visit to a lakeside fish restaurant. Qiandao Lake fish, raised in the reservoir's clean water, is the area's signature dish, served steamed or in a hotpot at restaurants near the pier and on some of the larger islands. Given the travel time from Hangzhou, an early start is important to make full use of the boat tours; April through October offers the warmest weather for being on the water, while the reservoir can feel exposed and cold in winter. Visitors on a tight schedule should treat Qiandao Lake as closer to a long day trip or overnight excursion than a quick half-day outing given the distance involved.