Thousand Island Lake Scenic Area

Known as "the world's finest clear water," Thousand Island Lake is a dazzling pearl embedded in Hangzhou, Zhejiang. Open all year round, it features 1,078 emerald islands scattered across a vast expanse of turquoise waters, forming the breathtaking spectacle of "a thousand islands, crystal‑clear water, and a golden belt." As a national 5A scenic area and national forest park, its lake water is so clear you can see the bottom, with a forest coverage rate exceeding 93% and abundant negative oxygen ions, making it an ideal haven to escape the hustle and bustle and embrace nature.

The core way to experience Thousand Island Lake is by taking a boat to the islands. The scenic area is divided into two prime sections: the Central Lake District and the Southeast Lake District, both adjacent to Qiandaohu Town with convenient transport and frequent boat and yacht departures to suit different sightseeing needs. The Central Lake District is open until 16:00, with last boat boarding at 14:30. Meifeng Island is a must‑visit landmark — climb to the summit for a 360° panoramic view of over 300 islands spread in picturesque disorder, truly grasping the grandeur of "without ascending Meifeng to view the islands, one never knows the true face of Thousand Island Lake." Moonlight Island is themed around love, with lovers' locks and romantic scenery that keeps couples lingering; Longshan Island houses the Hai Rui Memorial Temple, featuring intricately carved beams, painted rafters, and a forest of stone tablets that tell the story of the incorruptible Ming Dynasty official, rich in cultural heritage. Yule Island combines water recreation and fresh lake cuisine, letting you savour the vibrant flavours of Thousand Island Lake while having fun.

The Southeast Lake District is open until 15:00, with last boat boarding at 13:30. Huangshan Jian is the pinnacle of natural wonder — from the summit, over 90 islands naturally arrange themselves into the characters "天下為公" (All Under Heaven for the Public Good), a masterpiece of nature that inspires awe. Tianchi Island preserves the stone quarrying site from the Southern Song Dynasty, with emerald‑green waters, schools of koi fish, a parrot corridor, and a flamingo garden, offering endless family‑friendly interactive fun. Guihua Island is fragrant with wild osmanthus, home to lively free‑ranging macaques, and dotted with striking karst rock formations, making it an excellent choice for family trips and nature exploration.

In addition, the Longchuan Bay Wetland and Qinchuan Ancient Village in the Southwest Lake District hold pristine water‑town and ancient village charm, perfect for in‑depth leisurely exploration. As you cruise between the thousand islands, watching the lake water shift with the light and listening to the whisper of the wind sweeping across the isles, every scene hides a surprise. Whether it's a family outing, a couple's getaway, photography, or cultural exploration, Thousand Island Lake fulfils all your expectations.

Don't miss this earthly paradise — set sail and embark on a soul‑soothing natural journey amid the lake and mountain scenery of Thousand Island Lake, treasuring every bit of Jiangnan's poetry and grandeur.