1 H from Zhejiang Province, I found the real-life version of Zelda

### **Shenxian Lake Eco Park Premium Travel Guide**
**📍Location**: Yuanhua Town, Haining, Jiaxing, Zhejiang
**🌟Highlights**: A transformed abandoned quarry known as the "Sapphire Lake," featuring wild Nordic fjord-like beauty, the martial arts legacy of Jin Yong's hometown, and a blend of ecological and artistic charm.

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### **🏞️ Must-Do Experiences**
1. **Lakeside Hiking**: A 7 km trail with water that shifts between blue and green under changing light, offering an aerial view reminiscent of "The Legend of Zelda."
2. **Boating on the Lake**: Rent a small boat to get up close to the emerald waters, with Nordic-style cliffs reflected on the surface—perfect for photos.
3. **Birdwatching Tower**: Spot rare birds like the Eurasian coot, ideal for photography.
4. **Lakeside Camping & Picnics**: Pitch a tent on the grassy shore for stargazing on clear days or a post-apocalyptic vibe on rainy ones.
5. **"Shenka" Café**: A lakeside glasshouse where you can sip coffee while soaking in the views, a hotspot for artsy crowds from Shanghai and Hangzhou.

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### **🍽️ Food Recommendations**
- **Farmhouse Cuisine**: Try steamed fish and lotus leaf-wrapped steamed pork at nearby rural eateries, featuring fresh local ingredients.
- **Haining Snacks**: On your way back, visit Yanguan Ancient Town for braised duck and sticky rice dumplings.
- **Lakeside Afternoon Tea**: Enjoy a latte with lake views at "Shenka" for ultimate relaxation.

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### **🏨 Accommodation Picks**
1. **Haining New Century Grand Hotel** (30 min drive, downtown): A 5-star hotel with top-notch amenities for comfort seekers.
2. **Yanguan Ancient Town B&Bs** (20 min drive): Traditional Jiangnan water-town style, perfect for evening strolls.
3. **Camping**: For nature immersion, bring your gear or check out the newly opened lakeside cabins.

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### **📌 Pro Tips**
- **Transport**: 1.5-hour drive from Hangzhou/Shanghai. Navigate to "Shenxian Lake Eco Park" for free parking (arrive early on weekends).
- **Best Season**: Spring and autumn for the bluest waters; summer for lotus blooms; winter for solitude.
- **Safety**: Some areas lack guardrails—avoid climbing quarry cliffs.

**✨ Final Note**: Shenxian Lake is a miracle of ecological restoration, blending ruggedness and serenity. Ideal for unwinding, photography, or martial arts fans. A short escape from the city, it’s your own hidden paradise.