Wozhou Lake

Introducing Wozhou Lake

The Wozhou Lake Scenic Area is located 12 kilometers southeast of Xinchang County, Zhejiang Province. Named after Wozhou Mountain, the scenic area primarily encompasses Wozhou Lake and Tianmu Mountain. Transportation is convenient: Shanghai and Wenzhou are approximately 3.5 hours away by car, Hangzhou and Ningbo are approximately one hour away, and Tiantai and Shaoxing are approximately one hour away.

The Wozhou Lake Scenic Area, covering 45 square kilometers, encompasses Wozhou Lake, Wozhou Mountain, Tianmu Mountain, Dongshan Mountain, Xishan Yibi, and Sanshiliudu, a scenic area renowned for its beautiful scenery and profound cultural heritage. Bai Juyi praised it as follows: "Of the mountains and waters of the southeast, Yue is the head, Shan is the face, and Wozhou and Tianmu are the eyebrows and eyes."

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Stone Woman Peak

Shi Nu Peak, also known as Yunu Peak and Shi Furen, stands approximately 6 meters tall, with her hair in a bun and flowing clothes, her face facing the lake. Legend has it that this is where a fisherman's wife awaited his return from a trip. Because of the steep cliffs and treacherous waters below Shi Nu Peak, raftsmen have always carefully paddled their way across the peak to ensure safety. Today, the Daxi River has become a flat lake, and only the legend of the Shi Nu waiting for her husband remains.

Zhenjun Temple

Zhenjun Temple, also known as Shi Zhenren Temple in the Ming Dynasty, is located on the south side of Wozhou Mountain and faces Ming Lake. It is dedicated to Zongze, a famous general during the Jin Dynasty. Donations funded its reconstruction in 1904, the 30th year of the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty, costing over 30,000 gold coins and taking four years to complete. The newly renovated hall boasts over 50 halls and halls, exquisitely constructed and magnificently appointed. It is a blend of Buddhist and Taoist architecture and a model of ancient architectural craftsmanship in the county.

Wozhou Lake Dam

The towering Wozhou Lake Dam stands 70 meters high and 211 meters long. Previously, the area was a gurgling stream, and uneven rainfall brought droughts and floods to the people of Xinchang, Shengzhou, and Shangyu. Since its completion in 1978, the dam has greatly reduced flood damage along the river below the lake. Since the 1980s, five cascade hydropower stations have been built downstream. Today, Wozhou Lake integrates flood control, irrigation, power generation, aquaculture, and tourism, benefiting the people. The completion of this dam marks a significant chapter in the history of Chinese water conservancy construction.

It is recommended to visit for half a day

Tickets

Adult ticket: 60 yuan;

Half-price ticket: height 1.1m-1.4m, students, military personnel (with ID);

Senior citizens over 70 years old with senior citizen ID: 20 yuan;

Free of charge for those under 1.1 meters;

Attraction opening hours

7:00~19:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Wozhou Lake

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

Wozhou Lake is known for its picturesque beauty and is often considered a hidden gem in Shaoxing. The lake is historically significant as a hub of local culture and trade, with surrounding areas that have influenced the region’s traditions and lifestyle for centuries. It’s also a popular destination for locals and tourists who seek to experience tranquility and natural beauty.

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

Wozhou Lake is located in Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province, approximately 10 km from the city center. You can reach the lake by taxi, or by bus from the Shaoxing central area. There are no direct metro lines, but the area is well-connected by local transportation options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The lake area is accessible year-round, with no specific opening hours for the natural attraction. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the landscape is particularly beautiful. Early mornings and late afternoons are also less crowded.

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

There is no entrance fee for visiting Wozhou Lake, as it is a natural attraction. Some nearby cultural spots or boat tours might require a small fee, which can typically be paid onsite or through local ticketing platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for the lake itself, but if you plan to take part in a boat tour or visit any specific cultural sites, it is advisable to book at least one day in advance during peak seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore Wozhou Lake in about 2-3 hours, especially if you plan to take a boat ride or walk around the lake. If you wish to explore the nearby cultural attractions, you might need around 4 hours.

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

• The lake itself, with its scenic views and tranquil waters.
• The surrounding gardens and walking trails, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
• The temples and cultural spots located around the lake.
• The traditional wooden boats that can be rented for a ride across the lake.

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

Guided tours are available, and you can find local guides who speak Mandarin. Audio guides in Mandarin might be available at certain cultural spots around the lake.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are along the walking trails around the lake, especially near the temples and garden areas. The boat rides also offer great photography opportunities with views of the traditional wooden boats on the lake and the surrounding greenery.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by exploring the walking trails around the lake, taking in the natural beauty.
• Visit the nearby cultural spots, such as temples or traditional buildings, along the way.
• Take a boat ride across the lake for a unique perspective of the area.
• Relax by the lake and enjoy a picnic or rest in the peaceful surroundings.

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

There are no specific night visits or light shows available at Wozhou Lake. However, the lake area can be very peaceful at night, offering a different kind of serenity. It is best to visit during daylight hours for a full experience of the attractions.

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

Wozhou Lake tends to be quieter during weekdays and off-peak seasons (spring and autumn). Weekends and public holidays may see more visitors, especially during the daytime.

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

The area around Wozhou Lake has public restrooms, and there are several small shops and food vendors offering snacks. There are also benches and rest areas along the walking trails where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.

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

Yes, the walking trails around Wozhou Lake are generally accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, certain areas may have uneven surfaces, so assistance may be required for disabled visitors. The boat rides are also available but may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted in many areas, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are increasingly common, especially in tourist-heavy spots and for boat rides or local shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several small restaurants and cafes around Wozhou Lake, offering both local Chinese food and light snacks. The nearby area also has a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian and vegan options available in the nearby restaurants, particularly those offering traditional Chinese dishes. Halal food options may be limited in the immediate area, but they can be found in larger cities like Shaoxing.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several accommodations in Shaoxing, including mid-range hotels and guesthouses. Popular options include hotels near the Shaoxing city center or around the lake itself, offering a peaceful environment with convenient access to the lake.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Shaoxing Wine Museum, the famous East Lake in Shaoxing, and the Shen Garden. These can easily be combined with a visit to Wozhou Lake for a full day of sightseeing.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are a few souvenir shops around the lake selling traditional Chinese items such as tea, local crafts, and small cultural keepsakes like pottery and paintings.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Wozhou Lake, you can take a taxi or bus to Shaoxing city center or other nearby attractions. There are also private car hire services available for further travel within the region.