Qiandao Lake: 1,078 Islands — Weekend Escape from Shanghai
Qiandao Lake: 1,078 Islands — Weekend Escape from Shanghai
Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake) in Zhejiang Province was created in 1959 when the Xin'an River Dam flooded a valley of 1,078 peaks, creating one of China's most serene lake landscapes. Just 1.5 hours from Shanghai by high-speed rail, it's the ultimate weekend escape for travelers seeking nature, luxury resorts, and outdoor activities.
Getting There & Best Itinerary
Shanghai to Qiandao Lake: High-speed rail from Shanghai Hongqiao to Qiandao Lake Station (1.5 hrs, ¥150 second class, departs every 2 hours from 7:30 AM). Taxi from station to lake area: ¥60-80 (20 min). Weekend itinerary: Day 1 — Arrive 10 AM, cruise the central lake islands (Meifeng Island for panoramic views, ¥185 cruise + entry), afternoon cycling the 140 km lakeside path (rental ¥30-50/day), sunset at Tiandao Mountain viewing platform (¥60). Day 2 — Morning kayak on the eastern lake (¥100/hr), visit the ancient underwater city of Shicheng (viewable by glass-bottom boat, ¥120), afternoon high-speed rail back to Shanghai by 5 PM. Best resort: InterContinental Qiandao Lake (¥1,200-2,500/night) — the only resort occupying its own private island, with a 9-hole golf course and infinity pool.
