Qingshan Lake Water Forest Park

Stepping into the Qingshan Lake Water Forest in Lin'an, Hangzhou, feels like entering a real-life version of the Wizard of Oz. Here, thousands of acres of dawn redwood trees take root above the clear waters, creating a unique landscape where "trees grow in the water, and boats travel through the forest."

Recommended Attractions

- Water Forest: Admission 40 RMB. Hundreds of acres of dawn redwoods are submerged in water, lush and green in summer, and brilliantly colored in autumn. You can stroll along an 800-meter wooden boardwalk weaving through the forest or rent a kayak to explore—120 RMB/hour for single, 220 RMB/hour for double.

- Lakeside Greenway: Free. A rainbow-colored running track stretches 42 kilometers along the lake, suitable for walking or cycling. The 5-kilometer scenic section from Qingshui Bay to Taiyang Bay is highly recommended.

- Qianwangdu Pier: Boat tour 50 RMB/person, about 40 minutes for a lake circuit, the best spot to watch the sunset.

- Family Beach: Free. Ideal for kids, with sandy play areas and shallow water zones, equipped with showers and changing rooms.

Food Experience

- Qingshan Lake Fish Feast: Mixed fish hotpot, loach chicken pot, and more, featuring tender fish and flavorful broth. Recommended: Qinshan Wild Fish Restaurant.

- West Lake Vinegar Fish: Tender fish with perfectly balanced sweet and sour sauce, authentic flavors can be enjoyed at Hushan Hui Fine Dining.

- Sweet Osmanthus Lotus Root Starch: Crystal-clear, thick, and silky with sweet osmanthus aroma, commonly available at snack stalls near the scenic area.

Accommodation Recommendations

- Yuyuan Homestay: The only lakeside homestay in the scenic area, with only 4 rooms, advance booking required. The terrace faces Qingshan Lake directly, featuring smart voice control and bathtubs, around 500 RMB per person.

- Ouxianli Low-Density Townhouse Villas: High-end and elegant, designed on a slope to blend with nature, suitable for family trips or travelers seeking quality.

Travel Tips

- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn. Spring brings fresh greenery, and the redwood season from mid-November to early December offers stunning autumn colors.

- Transportation: By car, navigate to the Ba Baili Liuzhuang Station parking lot; alternatively, take Hangzhou Metro Line 16 to "Ba Baili" Station, Exit C1, then about a 10-minute walk.

- Notes: Wear non-slip sports shoes, bring mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and a waterproof phone pouch; dining options inside the park are limited, so it’s recommended to bring your own snacks; try to visit on weekdays or early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Qingshan Lake Water Forest is a place where your soul deeply connects with nature, and every inch of scenery is filled with poetry.