Location & Access

Thousand Island Lake Scenic Area Dock, located at 99 Menggu Road in Chun’an County, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, is your gateway to this breathtaking destination. Situated about 150 kilometers west of Hangzhou city, it’s nestled between lush hills and crystal-clear waters. Nearby landmarks like the ancient Huangshan Mountain (about 1.5 hours’ drive) and Shanghai (3 hours by car) make it a perfect stop for road trippers.

To get here, you can:

  • Drive via expressways from Hangzhou or Shanghai. The dock has free parking.
  • Take a high-speed train to Chun’an Station, then a 30-minute taxi ride.
  • Hop on a tourist bus from Hangzhou’s West Lake, with direct routes to the dock.
  • Arrive by ferry if you’re coming from nearby islands—the dock is the main hub for boat tours.

Natural Wonders

At Thousand Island Lake Scenic Area Dock, nature steals the show. The lake, famously named for its 1,078 islands, offers water so clear you can see fish swim by. From the dock, you can:

  • Take a boat tour to spot islands shaped like turtles, birds, or even a lock and key—locals say they’re cursed lovers turned to stone!
  • Swim or kayak in summer; the water’s cleanliness feels like swimming in glass.
  • Hike trails around the dock that wind through forests and offer panoramic views. In autumn, maple leaves turn the hills into a firework of red and gold.

Cultural Highlights

Beyond its natural beauty, Thousand Island Lake Scenic Area Dock is steeped in history. Don’t miss:

  • Longshan Island: A short boat ride from the dock, this island houses the Hai Rui Memorial Hall, dedicated to a Ming Dynasty politician who once governed here.
  • Fishing Villages: Nearby, old-style houses along the water showcase traditional life. You might see cormorant fishing—a technique used here for centuries.
  • Underwater Cities: Some islands were submerged after the lake’s expansion. Locals say ghost towns lie beneath the surface, adding a mysterious vibe to the area.

Practical Tips

The dock is more than just a pretty view—it’s packed with amenities:

  • Ticket offices and information centers help plan your boat trips.
  • Cafés and snack stalls serve local specialties like fish dumplings and lotus root soup.
  • Bike rentals let you explore lakeside paths without hassle. For longer trips, electric scooters are a fun way to zip around.
  • Souvenir shops offer handmade crafts, but avoid peak hours if you prefer a quieter shopping experience.

Ultimate Day Trip

Start your visit at Thousand Island Lake Scenic Area Dock early. Board a morning boat to explore the “Bird Island” or “Snake Island” (don’t worry, the snakes are harmless!). Return to the dock for lunch at a lakeside restaurant—try the grilled fish, a local favorite.

Afternoon? Rent a bike and pedal along the 40-kilometer lakeshore trail. The path is flat, shaded, and dotted with lookout points. End your day back at the dock, where nightfall transforms the lake into a mirror reflecting thousands of stars.

Insider’s Advice

  • Wear sunscreen—there’s little shade on the water.
  • Bring cash for small vendors, though bigger shops take cards.
  • Go mid-week to skip the crowds. Weekends get busy, especially during Chinese holidays.
  • Respect the ecology: Don’t litter, and avoid feeding the fish (they’re spoiled enough already!).

Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or a peek into China’s rural charm, Thousand Island Lake Scenic Area Dock promises an unforgettable escape. Dive into the crystal waters, lose yourself in the islands’ stories, and let this hidden gem of Zhejiang Province leave you spellbound.