Location & How to Get There

Meifeng Cableway Upper Station sits in the heart of Thousand Island Lake Scenic Area, a gem in Chun’an County, Hangzhou. To reach this spot, you’ll first arrive in Hangzhou city and then take a 1.5-hour drive west to Thousand Island Lake town. From there, hop on a ferry or shuttle bus to the lake’s main dock, followed by a short walk to the cable car station. The ride up Meifeng Peak offers stunning aerial views—think floating islands dotting turquoise waters, framed by rolling hills. Pro tip: The cableway itself is part of the adventure!

Nature’s Masterpiece: What to See

At Meifeng Cableway Upper Station, nature steals the show. The panoramic deck here is like a postcard come to life. On clear days, you’ll spot over a hundred islands from this vantage point, each with its own shape and story. The lake’s famous “green jade” water changes hues with the sun—sometimes blue-gray, sometimes shimmering turquoise. For photographers, golden hours (sunrise/sunset) are magic. The mist often hugs the lake in the early morning, making it look like a watercolor painting. If you’re lucky, you might even see fishermen’s boats gliding through the fog—a scene straight out of a Chinese pastoral poem.

Cultural Tidbits & Hidden Stories

While Meifeng Cableway Upper Station isn’t packed with historic temples or ancient ruins, the area buzzes with local charm. The name “Thousand Island Lake” comes from its literally thousands of islands, formed after a dam was built in 1959. Many submerged villages lie beneath the waters, adding a whisper of mystery. At the station, you’ll find maps highlighting iconic islands like Bird Island or Snake Island. Some say the best way to connect with the lake’s spirit is to wander nearby trails, where you’ll stumble upon quiet spots perfect for reflection.

Practical Perks: Amenities & Tips

Meifeng Cableway Upper Station is tourist-friendly. The upper deck has shaded resting areas with benches, plus snack stands selling local tea and snacks (try the dragon well tea ice cream!). Clean restrooms and souvenir shops line the paths. For a splurge, rent a telescope to spot distant islands or wildlife. The cableway runs from 8 AM to 5 PM daily, but check seasonal hours online. Wear comfy shoes—the rocky terrain can be tricky, and you’ll want to explore!

The Ultimate View: What Makes It Special

Here’s why Meifeng Cableway Upper Station stands out: it’s one of the few spots where you can gaze down at the lake’s endless puzzle of land and water. Unlike crowded boat tours, this view feels intimate—like having the lake all to yourself. On weekdays, you might even snag a quiet moment to soak in the breeze without selfie sticks blocking the scenery. For couples, it’s a romantic sunset hotspot; for solo travelers, a chance to lose themselves in China’s version of “lake therapy.”

Insider Hacks for Your Visit

  • Go early: Beat the afternoon crowds by arriving before 10 AM.
  • Pack layers: Mountain weather can swing from sunny to misty fast.
  • Skip the midday rush: Have lunch at the lakeside café instead of the upper station—fewer queues!
  • Trail mix, not match: The island’s hiking paths are easy, but bring water.
  • Night owls: Some say the stars here are incredible if you stay late… but the cableway closes at night, so plan ahead!

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a calm seeker, Meifeng Cableway Upper Station turns a quick trip into a memory bank. Oh, and don’t forget your charger—you’ll want to snap every angle of this view!