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.

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