Cycling Slowly: Little Erhai Lake in Eastern Zhejiang | Cycling Around Dongqian Lake, a Visit to Ningbo's Back Garden

Day 1 Shanghai → Ningbo → Dongqian Lake → → Shanghai

All day

07:00 Everyone gathers at the designated location and signs in.

07:15

We set off on time, the team leader introduced the itinerary, the team members introduced themselves, and there was laughter and joy all the way.

10:30

Arriving at Dongqian Lake Resort, we headed to the post station, selected our "chariots," and prepared to begin our lakeside adventure today. We followed the cycling path to the Taogong Island intersection. The Taogong Peninsula stretches across the center of the lake, resembling a Funiu (beast of the Chinese oxen) drinking from the lake. It's also known as Funiu Mountain. The summit is densely forested with pine and cypress trees, and dwellings cluster at the foot of the stream. We then continued our journey, ascending Tianluo Mountain. From there, we ascended to the commanding heights, offering a panoramic view of Little Putuo and the southern part of Dongqian Lake. We then stopped at Riyue Slope, where the lake and mountains sparkled. Nearby, we also had the opportunity to check in at the refreshing rest stops at the Lonely Tree and West Coast Lighthouse.

12:00

Arriving at Hanling Old Street, known as "Eastern Zhejiang's No. 1 Ancient Street," Hanling is a well-preserved, quintessential water village in eastern Zhejiang. A clear, ribbon-like stream flows through the village, framed by picturesque green mountains. Hanling's cuisine is unique, with must-try dishes like steamed Peng fish, stir-fried snails, black carp, and Qianhu river shrimp, all inspired by the childhood memories of Ningbo residents. We stopped here for lunch.

After a group photo at the charming Hanling Art Museum, we set off! Passing Mashan Wetland, we arrived at Huanhu East Road. The uphill section was a bit strenuous, so adjust your pace. After reaching Fuquan Mountain, you can enjoy the lightning-fast descent! (If you lack the stamina and riding skills to handle the rough terrain, it's recommended to push the bike for safety.) We stopped along the way, taking photos and checking in, before arriving at Shili Sixiang, a cafe in the corner of the old street. Its modern, Instagram-style decor and bourgeois atmosphere made it tempting to sit down and relax. Finally, we finished our ride along Huanhu North Road and returned to the starting point.

4:00 PM

Gather and prepare to return to Shanghai

8:00 PM

Arriving in Shanghai, everyone kissed goodbye with tears

Driving time: Shanghai to Ningbo, about 3.5 hours

Hiking: Today we rode about 38km, with a cumulative ascent of 315m and a maximum altitude of 83m. Motor vehicles were mixed on 30% of the road sections, so please pay attention to the oncoming vehicles and ride on the right.

Note: Bring Your Own Bike Service: 1. Depending on the bus's loading capacity, the maximum number of bikes allowed is 3-5 (a 30 RMB bike fee). You must select the rental fee and note "Bring Your Own Bike" on your order. After the price difference is deducted, proceed to payment to complete your registration.
2. If you do not include your own bike in your order, we cannot guarantee there will be space on the bus. Please note this immediately. Thank you for your cooperation.
3. For petite users, please note that you require a 24-inch bike.
4. Bikes are loaded under the bus, and the front wheel may be removed. We recommend against bringing your own bikes, as we are not responsible for any damage to the bikes.

Dongqian Lake: A 4-kilometer-long embankment divides the lake into two halves. Surrounded by mountains, 72 streams converge here, forming a vast natural reservoir. During droughts, the sluice gates release water to irrigate farmland in eight townships in Fenghua, Yinxian, and Zhenhai. It also serves as a base for freshwater aquaculture, earning it the nickname "Wanjin Lake." Dongqian Lake originally boasted ten scenic spots, including Tao Gong Fishing Rock, Yu Xiang Book Tower, Hundred Steps of Greenery, Xiayu Locked in Mist, Double Rainbows Falling, Erling Sunset, Shanglin Morning Bell, Geese Sleeping at Reed Ting, Yinwan Fishing Lights, and Baishixianping.