Qiandao Lake ('Thousand Island Lake') was created 1959 when the Xin'an Jiang River was dammed to power Eastern China's first hydroelectric project — submerging two ancient cities (Chun'an and Sui'an, now legendary 'underwater cities' that scuba divers visit) and 1378 mountain peaks (now the 1078 islands). 580 km² of clear blue water — the source of Nongfu Spring bottled water (the most popular in China). Activities: 2-hour boat tour to Five Dragon Island + Lock Island ¥150, mountain biking the lake-perimeter trails, scuba diving to the Chun'an underwater city (advanced divers only, certification required, ¥3000+). High-speed rail from Hangzhou East 50 min ¥75. Best 3-day trip with mid-range lakeside hotels (¥600-1500).
Address
Qiandao Lake Town, Chun'an, Hangzhou
杭州市淳安县千岛湖镇
Highlights
- Boat Tour to Five Dragon Island¥150 / 2-hour scenic tour
- Underwater Chun'an CityScuba diving to submerged 1300-year-old town
- Nongfu Spring SourceLake water bottled as China's #1 mineral water
For foreign visitors
- English service: english tour
- Cards accepted: visa, master
- Booking / entry: required
- Best time: April-October weekday; avoid August heat
- Wi-Fi: free
- Transit access: need taxi
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What travelers say (3 reviews)
LakeDay·TripAdvisor·4/5
1078-island lake. Boat tour ¥130. Stunning aerials. Day-trip from Hangzhou (2.5 hrs).
2026-04-22
千岛湖·Xiaohongshu·5/5
千岛湖 1078 个小岛!¥130 游船。岛上石林 + 猴岛。从杭州 2.5 小时车程。
2026-03-28
Olivia B.·Google Maps·4/5
Aerial views are jaw-dropping. Day-trip doable but overnight better.
2026-02-28
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