Qingshan Lake National Forest Park

What are the most recommended things to do in Qingshan Lake National Forest Park?

Hiking and walking along the forest trails surrounding Qingshan Lake.
Boating and paddleboarding on Qingshan Lake for scenic views.
Birdwatching and wildlife photography in the forested areas.
Picnicking at designated spots with lake and forest views.
Visiting scenic viewpoints and taking photographs of the natural landscapes.
Cycling along the bike-friendly paths around the park.

Introducing Qingshan Lake National Forest Park

Qingshan Lake, also known as Jinxian Lake and Huijintan, is a large man-made lake located in Qingshan Town, Lin'an City. Built in 1964, it covers 10 square kilometers. Surrounded by mountains, the park boasts a beautiful environment and rich tourism resources and cultural attractions, earning it the reputation of Lin'an's premier scenic spot.

The lake is as emerald as a mirror, with egrets dancing and fish swimming in the clear waters. North Lake boasts over a thousand acres of rare aquatic forests, a sight rarely seen in China. A dam, 58 meters long, 24.1 meters high, and 5.5 meters wide at the top, stretches like a rainbow between the Gongshan and Mushan Mountains, blocking the Nanshaoxi River in half. The lake is surrounded by lush mountains, with rolling peaks, a rich tapestry of layers and a breathtaking beauty.

The lake is surrounded by lush green mountains, with rolling peaks forming a rich tapestry of layers and a captivating beauty. The natural scenery of mountains, water, and forest is breathtakingly beautiful. Gongshan and Mushan closely embrace the dam, facing each other across the lake. Gongshan, at 310 meters above sea level, is the highest point in the lake area and offers the best views from the top.

Here you can also find the real history of King Qian's birth, his stay, and his return home in glory, as well as the scholar pine planted by the great Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo, the handwritten Jiuzhe Rock, and the rock carvings left by later literati and poets.

Climate and best time to travel

The scenery of Qingshan changes endlessly throughout the four seasons, with a unique water forest landscape

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Tickets

130 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Off-season (November 1st - end of February): 8:00-16:30

Peak season (March 1st - October 31st): 7:30-17:00

Most Popular FAQs for Qingshan Lake National Forest Park

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Qingshan Lake National Forest Park is a protected natural area in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, known for its lush forests, clean lake waters, and rich biodiversity. It serves as a key ecological and recreational site for both conservation and tourism.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, near Qingshan Lake area.
By taxi: From Hangzhou city center, approximately 40–50 minutes drive.
By bus: Local buses serve routes connecting city center to the park entrances.
Walking: Once inside the park, trails are well-marked for walking and hiking.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours: Typically 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM.
Best times: Spring and autumn for mild weather and scenic foliage, though summer is ideal for boating.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fee: Around 50–80 RMB per person.
Tickets can be purchased online through the official park website or at ticket counters on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is optional but recommended during weekends and public holidays. Online booking 2–3 days in advance is suggested for convenience.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 hours to enjoy main trails, viewpoints, and lake activities; a full day for leisure and extended exploration.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Qingshan Lake and its surrounding scenic trails.
Forest hiking paths showcasing native flora and fauna.
Designated viewpoints with panoramic vistas of the lake and mountains.
Picnic and rest areas within the forest.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese; some English-language services may be arranged in advance. Audio guides are generally not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Overlook points on elevated trails around the lake.
Lake shoreline for sunrise or sunset photography.
Forest clearings for nature and wildlife shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Main entrance → Qingshan Lake trail → forest hiking loop → scenic viewpoints → picnic/rest areas → exit.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not permitted. Special seasonal events may occur, but light shows are uncommon.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak: Weekends, holidays, and during spring flower season.
Least crowded: Weekdays, early mornings, or late afternoons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets near main trails and lake areas.
Picnic areas and benches.
Small cafes or vending stalls near main entrances.
Information boards and rest areas along major trails.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main paths and lake areas are mostly accessible, though some hiking trails are steep or uneven. Suitable for families with children and elderly with moderate mobility.