Discover Happy Lock Island: A Unique Gem in Thousand Island Lake

Located at Moonlight Island, Pailin South Road 32, Chun’an County, Happy Lock Island sits at the heart of the Thousand Island Lake Scenic Area—a must-visit destination near Hangzhou, Zhejiang. This tiny island shaped like a giant lock is part of the Five Dragons Scenic Area, the first stop on many travel routes across the lake. With crystal-clear waters and lush greenery, it’s easy to see why this place is called the “Stunning Waters Under Heaven.”

How to Get There

Happy Lock Island is easy to reach. From Hangzhou, drive for about 2 hours to Chun’an County, then take a short boat ride from the Thousand Island Lake Port. The island is nestled in the central lake area, so you’ll pass countless other islands dotted with forests and hidden bays. For a hassle-free trip, many travelers opt for guided tours that include round-trip boat tickets and entry to multiple islands.

Nature’s Best-Kept Secret

The Thousand Island Lake isn’t just named for its 1,078 islands—it’s also famous for its surreal water quality. On Happy Lock Island, you’ll find panoramic views of the emerald lake surrounded by mist-covered mountains. Walk along wooden paths lined with lanterns and bonsai trees, and pause at the island’s highest point to snap photos of the lock-shaped island framed by rippling waters. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom across the island, while autumn paints the hills in shades of red and gold.

Locks, Love, and Culture

What makes Happy Lock Island truly special is its lock-themed culture. Locals and tourists alike come here to hang symbolic locks:

  • Love Locks: Couples attach padlocks engraved with their names, then throw the keys into the lake.
  • Friendship Locks: Groups of friends leave matching locks as a promise to stay connected.
  • Wish Locks: Write a hope or dream on a lock, and let the lake’s energy bless it!
  • Merit Locks: Some visitors leave locks as a gesture of gratitude or prayer.

Over time, these locks form glittering walls of metal, each one a silent witness to human wishes. The island even has a nickname—“Island of Heart-to-Heart Locks”—because it feels like a bridge between people’s emotions and nature’s beauty.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

  • Opening Hours: The island is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM.
  • Tickets: Entrance is included in most Thousand Island Lake tour packages.
  • Facilities: Find clean restrooms, souvenir shops selling locks, and a small café with lake views.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

Why You’ll Love It

Unlike crowded tourist spots, Happy Lock Island feels intimate and peaceful. Whether you’re there to admire the scenery, participate in the lock rituals, or simply relax by the water, it’s a place where nature and human creativity blend seamlessly. Don’t forget to bring a notebook—you’ll want to jot down the names of lovers, friends, and dreamers etched into the locks around you.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Thousand Island Lake, Happy Lock Island is more than just a photo stop. It’s a chance to leave a piece of yourself behind—or to pick up inspiration from the stories of strangers. Pack a lock (or buy one there), take a deep breath of that famously clean air, and let the lake’s magic sink in. Trust us, it’s an experience you’ll lock away in your heart forever.