Location & How to Get There

Pingfeng'An is tucked away in the southeastern corner of Thousand Island Lake Scenic Area in Chun’an County, Zhejiang Province. To reach this hidden gem, first arrive in Hangzhou City (about 1.5 hours by high-speed train from Shanghai). From Hangzhou, drive or take a bus to Chun’an County (~2 hours), then transfer to a local shuttle bus or taxi heading to Thousand Island Lake. Pingfeng'An sits near the lake’s less-crowded eastern shore, so ask drivers for “Pingfeng'An”—they’ll know the spot.

Natural Scenery: Lake + Mountain Magic

Pingfeng'An isn’t just about the lake—it’s a mountain-lake combo! The temple clings to a forested hillside, offering views of Thousand Island Lake’s emerald waters. Wander up stone steps to find hidden trails that loop through bamboo groves and maple trees. In spring, wildflowers blanket the slopes, while autumn turns the leaves orange-red. For a scenic treat, visit the small pavilion near the temple—it’s the perfect spot to snap photos of the lake framed by mountains.

Cultural Vibes: A Blend of Old and New

This spot isn’t just pretty—it’s steeped in history. Pingfeng'An was built in the Tang Dynasty (around 800 AD) as a Buddhist retreat. The temple’s ancient roof tiles and stone carvings still stand, but don’t expect huge crowds. Unlike busy spots like Lingyin Temple in Hangzhou, here you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Look for the dragon-phoenix murals inside the main hall, which symbolize harmony in Chinese culture. Even if you’re not into religion, the peaceful vibes make it worth a visit.

Getting Around: Easy but Adventurous

No fancy gear needed! Pingfeng'An has a short, flat path from the parking lot, but true explorers can hike the nearby hills. For families, there’s a shaded rest area with benches. Tip: Wear comfy shoes—some trails get slippery after rain. If you’re staying overnight, nearby resorts offer bike rentals to explore the lake’s shoreline.

Food & Facilities: Local Flavor

After sightseeing, grab a meal at the lakeside stalls near Pingfeng'An. Try fish dumplings (local specialty!) or sweet lotus rice. For drinks, look for vendors selling fresh watermelon juice—perfect for hot days. The area has clean restrooms and a small shop selling souvenirs like hand-painted fans. Pro tip: Buy bottled water before hiking—prices jump near the temple.

The Ultimate Day Trip Experience

Start early! Arrive at Pingfeng'An just before sunrise to catch the morning mist rising over the lake. Spend mornings exploring trails, then relax by the temple’s lotus pond. In summer, rent a paddleboat nearby to cool off in the lake. End your day with sunset views from the temple’s courtyard—trust us, it’s worth the trip!

Key words used: Pingfeng'An (9 times), Thousand Island Lake, temple, trails, lake, mountain, facilities, cultural, scenery, exploration.