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Chun'an is home to Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake) — a vast man-made reservoir created in 1959 when the Xin'an River was dammed, submerging two ancient cities and 27 villages. Today, 1,078 islands dot the crystal-clear lake, creating one of China's most distinctive landscapes. The lake is famous for its exceptionally pure water (a drinking water source for Hangzhou and Shanghai) and its freshwater fish, particularly the prized organic salmon and grass carp.
Good for lake scenery, island hopping, freshwater fish cuisine
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千岛湖
A vast man-made reservoir with 1,078 islands formed when the Xin'an River was dammed in 1959. The lake covers 573 km² and is renowned for its crystal-clear water — visibility up to 12 meters. Boat tours connect the main island clusters.
medium priority
He Cheng & Shi Cheng
Two ancient cities — Hechen (founded 208 AD) and Shicheng (founded 621 AD) — were submerged when the reservoir was created. Shicheng in particular is remarkably well-preserved underwater, with intact city walls, archways, and buildings.
medium priority
梅峰岛
One of the main tourist islands in Qiandao Lake, offering panoramic views of the lake and its islands from the summit. The island has walking trails through forest and gardens.
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龙山岛
An island featuring a replica of the submerged ancient city, allowing visitors to experience the architecture and culture of the lost cities without diving.
medium priority
The lake's organic fish — particularly the famous Qiandao Lake grass carp and salmon — are the culinary centerpiece of the region. Fish head hot pot (鱼头火锅) is the signature dish.
Chun'an is home to Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake) — a vast man-made reservoir created in 1959 when the Xin'an River was dammed, submerging two ancient cities and 27 villages. Today, 1,078 islands dot the crystal-clear lake, creating one of China's most distinctive landscapes. The lake is famous for its exceptionally pure water (a drinking water source for Hangzhou and Shanghai) and its freshwater fish, particularly the prized organic salmon and grass carp.
- Qiandao Lake - Submerged Ancient Cities - Meifeng Island - Longshan Island - Qiandao Lake Fish Head Hot Pot
Qiandaohu Town (the county seat) is about 150 km from Hangzhou, accessible by expressway in about 2 hours. Regular buses run from Hangzhou's bus stations (¥50–70, ~2 hours). High-speed trains serve Qiandaohu Station. Boat tours of the lake depart from the main pier in Qiandaohu Town — various tour packages available from ¥100–200 per person.
Freshwater fish is the defining cuisine of Chun'an. Qiandao Lake grass carp (有机鱼) and fish head hot pot are the signature dishes. The lake fish is organic and raised in exceptionally clean water. Restaurants along the lakefront in Qiandaohu Town serve fish meals for ¥60–150 per person. The lake also produces excellent organic tea.
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